When most people think of the Lowcountry they think of beaches. That beach mentality often keeps folks from participating in an authentic and rewarding swamp experience. Located in Four Holes Swamp and off the beaten path, the Audubon Center at Francis Beidler Forest includes a 1.75-mile boardwalk trail set within 1,800 acres of old-growth cypress-tupelo swamp forest where 1000-year-old trees and native wildlife abound. We recommend checking out their very popular naturalist lead canoe/kayak trips that typically take place in the spring and sometimes summer months (call for reservations).
Directions from Charleston: Take I-26 W to exit 187. Turn left on to Hwy 27 S to right turn on to Hwy 78 W. At the fork in the road, veer right onto Hwy 178. Make a right onto Francis Beidler Forest Rd. (first paved right). After 4 miles the road will make a 90-degree turn to the left, veer right onto Mims Rd. Head 1 mile to entrance on right.
Francis Beidler Forest: 843-462-2150 / 336 Sanctuary Rd., Harleyville / www.beidlerforest.com
