Return to Poinsett: Old Levi Mill Pond

Return to Poinsett State Park: Old Levi Mill Pond

“Stars on Old Levi Mill Pond”, Poinsett State Park, May 2026

Hello Friend,

During the Memorial Day Weekend this year, my wife and I went camping at Poinsett State Park here in South Carolina. It’s the first time there since the fall of 2022 as the park’s Artist in Residence.

Looking back at the images from that AIR stay, I did not do many black and white photos – most likely because I had scheduled my visit for a fall. This year, I was just as likely to be shooting in black and white as color. Because I have noticed I’ve been doing a lot of B/W lately, here is a little portfolio of this latest stay in the park.

Yin & Yang on the Mill Pond”, Poinsett State Park, May 2026

One of the main features of the park is the 10-acre Old Levi Mill Pond and the trails around it. It’s true that most of the places I visit in Aiken have some body of water, each has their own personality and characteristics. And what I like about the Old Levi Mill Pond is that it has some open areas where the wind has an effect on the water and lilies. Since the wind was blowing most of the days we were there, I was able to get some wave patterns on the pond.

A few fun facts about Poinsett State Park: It’s one of the 16 of the South Carolina State Parks built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the mid-1930’s. In 2016 it was placed on the National Historic Registry because of this connection to the CCC. There are more then 25 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. And the trails cover a variety of different landscapes. (In a couple of weeks, I’ll be posting some of those.)

“Lilypads on Waves I”, Poinsett State Park, May 2026

The other reason I am posting about the park, is because Poinsett will be one of the host parks again for next year’s AIR program. For anyone who is interested, here is a link more info about the program: SCSP AIR LINK. If selected, you get one week to spend at one of the state parks practicing your art – and the stay is free. You agree to produce and gift that park at least one of your creations from your time. Since I take so many photos, I usually give them two. Apply, and maybe you’ll get to spend a week at one of the parks. Deadline is September 30, 2026. If you would like to visit my AIR Studio on my site, you can see the many photos I created during my times.

Thank you, and keep creating what you do.

Patrick Krohn

September 2026