Interpretive Trail

Conservation Station

(Columbia, SC)

Description: Enter through the wooden door in the lattice fence at the parking area, where a cool canopy of hickory and oak trees shades this short, easy-walking, loop trail. You will pass six educational kiosks that feature information about soil, geology, forestry, wildlife, air quality and water. At the water kiosk, you can walk out on the dock to view the lake habitat where you may see frogs, alligators, snakes, and other wildlife. From the lake you will walk up a knoll to the parking area to complete your hike. Children may enjoy the Pooh Garden playground near the parking area. Swimming, boating and fishing are not permitted. Insect repellant is recommended during warmer months. Pets are allowed on leashes.

Length: 0.5-mile loop.

Fees: No fee.

Directions: From Columbia, drive northeast on I-20 to exit 80. Turn left on Clemson Road. Drive to Two Notch Road and turn right (north). The entrance to the Clemson Sandhillls Research Center is less than 0.5 mile on the left. Cross the railroad tracks, and turn right. Follow the sand road down the hill. The trail is across the road from the parking area.

Hours: 8:00 a.m. - dusk.

Camping: No camping.

Information: Clemson University Sandhills Research and Education Center, P. O. Box 23205, Columbia, SC, 29224. Telephone: 803-788-5700. For a listing of education programs offered at the Conservation Station and the adjacent Carolina Children's Garden, visit www.carolinachildrensgarden.org.