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Backwater -
Donnelley Wildlife Management Area
Description: From the parking area, you will
walk/ride on a relatively flat dirt surface loop, which is bordered on
two sides by the “backwater” of an old rice plantation. You will pass
through a forest of pines and upland and bottomland hardwoods, where you
may encounter deer, wild turkeys, and hear the songs of a large variety
of birds. Maps of the area and bird guides are available at a covered
bulletin board near the office.
There are no restrooms or drinking water at the trailhead, but there are
restrooms at the WMA office. Insect repellent and protective clothing
are recommended at all times. Bring pets on a leash, and DO NOT let them
run free.
Length: 1.5 miles.
Fees: No fee.
Directions: From Walterboro, drive south on SC 303 to US 17. Turn left
onto US 17, and then right onto the first gravel road. The WMA office is
.5 mile on the left. Stop at the parking area and sign in at the kiosk
where you can also pick up a map and information. After you sign in,
drive back toward the entrance and park in the small parking area on the
right.
Hours: This trail is open from January 21 to October 31 from 8:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Saturday. It is closed during special hunts in April
and October. The hunts are posted on the bulletin board, but if you are
driving a long way, you should call ahead.
Camping: No camping.
Information: Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, SC Dept. of Natural
Resources, 585 Donnelley Drive, Green Pond, SC 29446. 843-844-8957.
Boynton -
Donnelley Wildlife Management Area
Description: At the gate just past the
abandoned house, you will begin this easy walk/ride through a lush
mature maritime forest, and across former rice field dikes and isolated
wetland habitat. Remember to take binoculars to view the incredible
diversity of birds from wood ducks to bald eagles, and wildlife such as
feral hogs and alligators. Before you begin, take note of the bamboo
stand near the house where screech owls sometimes spend the daylight
hours. As you enjoy the sights and sounds of this natural area, remember
to stay on the trail and out of the water, which can range from 18
inches to 10 feet deep. The alligators and snakes are not a danger if
you stay a reasonable distance from them. Remember, this is their home
you are invading. Maps of the area and bird guides are also available at
a covered bulletin board near the office.
There are no restrooms or drinking water at the trailhead, but there are
restrooms at the WMA office. Insect repellent and protective clothing
are recommended at all times. Bring pets on a leash, but DO NOT let them
run free.
Length: 3.0 miles.
Fees: No fee.
Directions: From Walterboro, drive south on SC 303 to US 17. Turn left
onto US 17, and then right onto the first gravel road. The WMA office is
.5 mile on the left. Stop at the parking area and sign in at the kiosk
where you can also pick up a map and information. Drive another 2 miles
and turn right at the trail signs. You can drive as far as the abandoned
house. Park and walk toward the gate.
Hours: This trail is open from January 21 to October 31 from 8:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Saturday. It is closed during special hunts in April
and October. The hunts are posted on the bulletin board, but if you are
driving a long way, you should call ahead.
Camping: No camping.
Information: Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, SC Dept. of Natural
Resources, 585 Donnelley Drive, Green Pond, SC 29446. 843-844-8957.
Hunting
Island State Park
Description: Starting from Parking Area J you
will find this trail to be a moderately easy hike, or an easy mountain
bike ride with some technical spots. A mixed base of sand, roots, mud,
and crushed oyster shells adds to the uniqueness of this trail. This is
basically an out and back trail, but by using some of the park roads you
can make it a loop. You will follow bluffs along the lagoon, where you
will have views of water for most of your hike or ride. At approximately
half way, you can visit the 1,100foot fishing pier, which is the
longest freestanding pier on the East coast, or you can get something
to eat at the café. Take water and during the warm months insect
repellant is a must.
Length: 8.0 miles.
Directions: From Beaufort, drive east on US 21 to the park entrance.
Turn onto Hunting Island Drive and continue to Parking Area J. The
trailhead is at the south edge of the parking area.
Camping: Call 1-866-345-PARK (7275) or go online at
www.SouthCarolinaParks.com to make your reservations today!
Park Information: Hunting Island State Park, 255 Sea Island Parkway,
Hunting Island, SC, 29920. 843-8382011
For additional information or
group outing opportunities...
843-844-2514
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