The best place to stay in Cheraw is the Spears Guest House (228 Huger St., 843/537-1097, www.spearsguesthouse.com, $75) off the main drag of Market Street. Kay and Larry Spears are delightful hosts, and their restored B&B, with four small but charming rooms, is great for relaxation. The breakfast is Continental and self-serve, from the house’s well-equipped kitchen.

Interestingly, Larry says they’re busiest during the week, which is when business travelers are likely to be passing through Cheraw. This means more room at the inn for the weekend tourist, however, so you may as well take advantage.

If camping’s your bag, go straight to the WPA-era Cheraw State Park (100 State Park Rd., 843/537-9656, www.southcarolinaparks.com, daily 7 a.m.–9 p.m., free) outside of town on Highway 52. There are eight well-equipped, one-bedroom rental cabins ($65–82), 17 electric-and-water camping sites ($13–15) and boat-in backcountry camping ($3–5) at the landing on Lake Juniper.

For a tasty bite in Cheraw, there’s a great Mexican place, Fiesta Tapatia (807 Market St., 843/921-0200, $7–10).

For more typical Southern home cooking—smothered and/or fried everything—go to River’s Edge (162 2nd St., 843/537-1109, $8–12).

Hungry for pizza? Check out El Sherif’s (217 2nd St., 843/921-0066, $6–10), which also has killer subs and a good Greek cuisine selection.