The Ashley River runs more than 30 miles from its headwaters in the Great Cypress Swamp, Dorchester County, South Carolina to the Charleston Harbor.

Not only is the area a recreational hot spot, for paddling, wildlife watching and enjoying the river from its banks, but it is also rich with history including iconic plantations predating the Revolutionary War. The Ashley River provides an amazing connection between a historically significant river and diverse natural resource in South Carolina in a relatively undisturbed tidal ecosystem. The Ashley River area contains 26 separate sites listed in the National Register of Historic Places, including Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Middleton Place, and Drayton Hall. In addition, the Ashely also provides habitat for abundant wildlife including endangered sturgeon, striped bass and the rare swallow-tailed kite. Tidally influenced throughout its length, the upper river provides paddlers sanctuary from large, motorized boats which frequent its lower reaches where it adjoins the harbor.

A 22-mile segment of the Ashley River of Dorchester and Charleston Counties was designated a State Scenic River in two parts; one in 1998 and the other in 1999. The designation extends from US Highway 17-A Bridge to I-526 Bridge.

Be aware that currents and water levels in the Ashley River are influenced by daily tidal fluctuations.

Access Points (mileage and GPS coordinates are approximate and for reference only):

Mile 0 - Schulz Lake - 32.972364, -80.273322

Sland's Bridge - 32.967851, -80.249312

Aqueduct Tower - 32.958904, -80.201576

Bacon's Bridge - 32.958375, -80.200592

Herbert H. Jessen Landing - 32.948117, -80.164769

Flynn Street Landing - 32.847641, -80.037252

W.O. Thomas Jr. Landing - 32.837373, -80.021099

Northbridge Park - 32.834365, -79.986241

Mile 30 - Marker #8