Wildfire Sparks State of Emergency in South Carolina’s Table Rock Park

PICKENS COUNTY, S.C. — A wildfire ignited at Table Rock State Park on Friday, March 21, 2025, prompting Governor Henry McMaster to declare a state of emergency to enhance emergency response efforts. The fire, believed to be started by four teenage hikers, has rapidly grown to over 35 acres and remains uncontained.

Governor McMaster issued an executive order on Saturday to facilitate the mobilization of necessary resources for firefighting operations. “As this wildfire continues to spread, the State of Emergency allows us to mobilize resources quickly and ensure our firefighters have the support they need to protect lives and property,” he stated.

The South Carolina Forestry Commission has confirmed that local agencies, including The Nature Conservancy and Greenville Water, are currently engaged in active firefighting measures, employing ground crews and aerial support. “We are working diligently to establish effective firebreaks, but the steep, mountainous terrain is presenting challenges,” said Forestry Commission spokesperson Darryl Jones.

The wildfire briefly trapped deputies and hikers searching for a missing person, Stephanie Womack, but fortunately, all were unharmed. The flames forced the cancelation of a volunteer search effort for Womack. “It’s heartbreaking to see the mountain burning. We’ve hiked there many times,” a witness lamented.

To ensure public safety, all trails within Table Rock State Park are closed indefinitely. Additionally, a statewide burn ban is in effect, prohibiting outdoor burning activity, including yard debris and campfires. Violators of the ban could face legal consequences, as emphasized by Governor McMaster, who warned, “Anyone who violates this ban can and will go to jail.”

Investigators have identified the teenage hikers responsible for starting the blaze and indicated that charges may follow later this week. The Pickens County Sheriff’s Office is working alongside other agencies to manage the situation.

As the fire progresses, officials have recommended voluntary evacuations for residents on eight roads near the park. These evacuations are precautionary as the situation evolves. Local fire management teams are conducting door-to-door notifications to keep residents informed.

The Table Rock Fire is part of a growing concern, as three other significant wildfires are burning in western North Carolina. So far, the Deep Woods Fire in Polk County has burned over 1,000 acres with no containment, and multiple structures have been lost. Fire authorities stress that the risk of wildfires remains critical due to dry and windy weather.

The latest updates have confirmed no injuries related to the Table Rock Fire, but conditions remain volatile. Firefighters continue to work tirelessly, utilizing air tankers and helicopters for water drops to combat the blaze.