The South Carolina Lowcountry’s “real swamp” experience!! The National Audubon Society’s Francis Beidler Forest located in Four Holes Swamp, SC contains within its 17,500 acres, the largest remaining stand of virgin Bald cypress and Tupelo Gum swamp forest left anywhere in the world. 1000-year-old trees and native wildlife abound in this pristine sanctuary that has been untouched for millennia. A 1.75-mile self-guiding boardwalk trail allows visitors the chance to safely venture deep into the heart of the swamp… to experience the peace and serenity that have characterized the area for centuries… to hear the sounds of bird and bug and breeze that have echoed through the trees for ages… to take a relaxing and informative walk back into time… to see a swamp the way nature intended them to be! Early in the day there are fewer visitors and wildlife sighting is at its best. Naturalist-guided Boardwalk Tours, Bird Walks, Canoe and Kayak Tours, and Night Walks are available in season and by reservation. Check for special events like April’s “Wine and Warblers."

Hours: Check the Beidler Forest website for current hours.

Camping: No camping at Francis Beidler Forest, although there are sites at Givhans Ferry State Park.

From either Columbia or the intersection of I-26 and I-95, drive southeast on I-26 to Exit 177 and turn right toward Harleyville on Judge St. (SC 453). At US 178 turn left, drive through Harleyville, and at approximately 7.0 miles turn left onto Beidler Forest Rd. (S-18-28). Drive approximately 4.0 miles and continue straight on Mims Rd. The entrance is 1.0 mile on the right.

From Charleston, drive west on I-26 to Exit 187, turn left (south) onto SC 27, then right onto US 78. At the fork bear right onto US 178 for .8 mile, then turn right onto Beidler Forest Road (Dorchester County S-18-28). Drive approximately 4.0 miles and continue straight on Mims Rd. The entrance is 1.0 mile on the right.