Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge is part of the larger ACE Basin, named after the confluence of the Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto rivers. This refuge covers over 11,000 acres of critical habitats including freshwater marshes, tidal rivers, and hardwood uplands. It's a sanctuary for a diverse range of species including birds, deer, and alligators. Historically, the area was rich in rice cultivation, leaving a network of dikes and canals that now serve to support its ecological diversity. For visitors, the refuge offers numerous low-impact recreational activities like birdwatching, photography, and canoeing through the waterways. Its peaceful landscapes and the opportunity for solitude attract many who seek to connect with the natural world. Notable landmarks include the Grove Plantation, one of the few antebellum homes open to the public in the region.
