There are many ways to cross South Carolina and yes, those smaller roads encounter small towns but if I have the time it's the way I go. If you take 321 consider going left at Swansea on 178 to Orangeburg then take 601 on down to Tarboro, Hardeeville, back on 95. Depending on where you are ultimately going "south" you can get off 26 at Newberry and get on 391 to 178 then to Fairview Crossroads. Pick up 113 to 39 Blackville, Barnwell, to Allendale. From Allendale pick 301 down into FL or get back on 321 there to Tarboro, Hardeeville. Or forget South Carolina and get into Georgia more to the west and come down through Dillard, Toccoa, Commerce, Danielsville, Powellton, Louisville, Summertown, Metter to I-16. I have a route along that way that avoids towns of any size. It's about as fast as 95/26/40 from my home in North Florida to Blairsville, GA or to Waynesville, NC Decide at Metter if 95 will serve to destination or pick up 301.