We finally made it down to Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill, and it turned out to be one of those rare weekend outings that feels like a full day of adventure but without the chaos. Fresh air, animals, space to roam, and the kind of calm that hits the reset button for everyone.
Crandall Bowles Children’s Farm
We started our morning at the Crandall Bowles Children’s Farm, which is tucked inside the Greenway near the Dairy Barn entrance. It’s such a great spot for little kids, especially if they’re into animals or just need something new to explore that isn’t a playground.
We made it a family outing with Gramma, Papa, and Nana, and parking couldn’t have been easier. There’s a big lot right near the entrance, and the walk down to the farm is short and stroller-friendly.
At first, Jamie wasn’t so sure. He clung to my hand and gave every animal a skeptical look. But within a few minutes, he warmed up and couldn’t get enough. He pointed nonstop at the alpacas, pigs, goats, horses, and a fluffy Highland cow. And the best part? He actually got to pet the alpacas, which completely made his day. Watching him go from cautious to curious was the highlight of mine.
We wandered around slowly, letting him take the lead and stop wherever something caught his attention. It wasn’t crowded, which made the whole morning feel relaxed and easy.
Right next to the animals is a small garden filled with flowers and vegetables. It’s peaceful and pretty, one of those places where everyone slows down for a minute. We walked through, pointed out the plants, and let Jamie explore at his own pace. The weather couldn’t have been better, sunny with just enough breeze, and it felt like the kind of morning you want to stretch out as long as possible.
More to Explore Around the Greenway
Anne Springs Close Greenway is massive, more than 2,000 acres of protected nature just a short drive from Charlotte, and it’s full of ways to play outside. You’ll find walking and biking trails, fishing spots, horseback riding, and big open meadows that are perfect for picnics or letting the kids run wild.
If you’ve got little ones, stick with the Lake Haigler Loop. It’s flat, stroller-friendly, and just over a mile long, long enough to feel like a real walk but short enough to avoid the mid-trail “carry me” moment. The Greenway is also dog-friendly, so if your family includes a four-legged member, this is a great place to bring them along.
For older kids, there are adventure areas, ropes courses, and even kayaking and paddleboarding in the warmer months. The Greenway also hosts family events throughout the year, everything from outdoor concerts to nature workshops, so it’s worth checking their calendar before you go.
The Parent-Friendly Details
📍 Location: Crandall Bowles Children’s Farm at Anne Springs Close Greenway, 288 Dairy Barn Lane, Fort Mill, SC
🕒 Hours: Open daily from 7 AM to sunset. Some attractions (like the farm) have specific hours, so check ascgreenway.org before heading out.
💵 Cost: A small daily admission fee for non-members (children under 5 are typically free). Memberships available for frequent visitors.
🚗 Parking: Plenty of parking near the Dairy Barn and Lake Haigler entrances.
👶 Best For: Toddlers through elementary-aged kids. The Children’s Farm is especially great for preschoolers.
☕ Nearby: Local favorite Olive’s Mud Puddle (in downtown Fort Mill) for coffee afterward or Hobo’s for a casual lunch.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
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Go mid-morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
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Bring a stroller or wagon for the walk to the farm.
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Pack snacks or a picnic, there’s plenty of room to spread out.
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Closed-toe shoes are best, especially if you’ve got a kid who likes to explore every patch of dirt.
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Don’t skip the garden, it’s small but sweet.
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Check the event calendar before you go, there’s often something special happening.
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Restrooms are near the Dairy Barn entrance, so make a quick stop before or after your visit.
Why We’ll Be Back
It’s rare to find a place that feels this calm but still keeps everyone entertained. Anne Springs Close Greenway has that perfect mix of freedom and structure, wide-open space for kids to run, animals to watch, and just enough to do without feeling over-scheduled.
Jamie might not be talking yet, but the way he pointed, giggled, and reached for the alpacas said it all. We left with dusty shoes, tired smiles, and that quiet, happy feeling you get after a really good morning outside.
We’ll definitely be back with snacks, sneakers, and maybe a few more family members in tow.
