Croft State Natural Area covers 7,054 acres and was originally purchased by the State of South Carolina in 1949. It had been part of a 19,034-acre tract that served as a U.S. Army Infantry Replacement Training Center known as Camp Croft during World War II. Croft State Natural Area is now maintained as a special resource park because of its role as a large expanse of mostly undeveloped green space in the growing Spartanburg metropolitan area. Recreational activities include camping, fishing and picnicking as well as trails for hiking, mountain bikes and horseback riding. Its mission is to preserve and protect significant natural and cultural features while promoting stewardship through educational services and scientific studies designed to interpret the park’s resources.