South Fork Paddlers Announce 2026 Summer Paddle Series
While the Edisto River Canoe & Kayak Trail Commission wraps up our Winter Paddle Series each spring, paddling opportunities on the Edisto continue throughout the warmer months thanks to our friends on the South Fork of the Edisto River.
The South Fork Paddlers, organized through First Baptist Church Denmark and led by longtime river advocate Jerry Bell, have announced their 2026 monthly paddle trips running from May through October. These trips take place on the South Fork of the Edisto River in the Denmark and Bamberg County area and offer paddlers a chance to explore another beautiful stretch of the Edisto system.
Trips will be held on the second Saturday of each month, beginning May 9 and continuing through October 10. Launch times vary by trip and distances range from 3 to 11 miles depending on the month. A free shuttle service is provided for the monthly river trips, and donations are accepted (a $10 contribution is recommended) to help support the program.
Before the season begins, the group is also hosting an Earth Day river cleanup on Wednesday, April 22, focusing on the river landings used throughout the paddle season. Volunteers are welcome to come out and help keep the South Fork clean and accessible for everyone.
Participants should bring their own canoe or kayak, life jacket, and whistle as required by law. For those who need equipment, boat rentals are available through Cope Kayak Company by contacting (803) 614-9836.
Camping and cabin accommodations are also available nearby at Black Pearl Farms (845-234-2903, blackpearlfarms@protonmail.com) and Barnwell State Park near Blackville.
The South Fork trips are a great way to experience another section of the Edisto River basin, meet fellow paddlers, and continue enjoying the river after our winter series concludes.
For additional information or to register, contact:
Jerry Bell
📞 (803) 300-1972
📧 SouthForkPaddlers@gmail.com
(Disclaimer: While we are happy to support our friends on the South Fork of the Edisto, these are NOT ERCK sponsored events and all questions should be directed to their organization)