PLACES TO GO & THINGS TO DO ALONG THE TRAIL
Along with tons of on-water recreation, there are also lots of opportunities for off-the-river exploration along the Edisto River Canoe & Kayak Trail. Check out the activities and attractions below!
FISHING ON THE EDISTO
The runs, sloughs and holes of the along the ERCK Trail create a blackwater fisherman’s paradise. A total of 87 freshwater species and 120 saltwater species of fish have been identified in the Edisto. Largemouth bass, striped bass, catfish and black crappie are all the target of local and visiting fisherman, but the prized red breast may be the most sought after species along the ERCK Trail. Launch your boat at one of the access points or arrange one with an outfitter to find your own fishing honey hole!
PADDLING ON THE EDISTO
The view along the ERCK Trail as you twist and turn under the foliage is unparalleled no matter the season. Experienced paddlers can use this website to assist with trip planning. Inexperienced paddlers are encouraged to contact an outfitter for a guided experience down one of South Carolina’s most unique rivers.
TUBING ON THE EDISTO
Tubing down the winding black waters of the Edisto is arguably the most relaxing way to experience the river. You can arrange it yourself, or Edisto River Adventures offers drop-off service, tube rentals, cookouts and more! Just remember to respect the river by packing out all of your trash please.
THE WILDLIFE IS AMAZING ON THE EDISTO
ERCK Trail users from near and far are quick to share stories of the abundant wildlife they’ve stumbled across throughout the Edisto corridor. Due to its vast habitat and location in the heart of the Atlantic Flyway, the ERCK TRail hosts an incredible diversity of birds can be easily viewed during various seasons. The quiet paddle group is also likely to encounter turtles, deer, turkey, river otter, snakes, and more!
BEE CITY
1066 Holly Ridge Lane
Cottageville, SC
Right on the shores of the Edisto you’ll find Bee City, which offers an up-close view of a working hive, honey available for purchase, and even a petting zoo that is home to wallabies, lemurs, alpacas, rabbits, monkeys and goats. A Nature Center features snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, and alligators.
COLLETON STATE PARK
147 Wayside Lane
Walterboro, SC 29488
The official starting point for the Edisto Canoe & Kayak Trail, Colleton State Park offers easy access to the river, a .3-mile interpretive trail, campground, picnic shelter, and biking.
FRANCIS BEIDLER FOREST
336 Sanctuary Road
Harleyville, SC 29448
With ancient trees rising up from the swamps, Francis Beidler Forest is truly one of the most historic locations in the surrounding area and is the second largest wildlife sanctuary operated by the National Audubon Society. The almost 18,000-acres are comprised of old growth cypress/tupelo forest, many of which are over 1,000 years old. Here you can enjoy a 1.75-mile self-guided boardwalk tour or take part in a canoe and kayak trip, naturalist-guided tours, bird walks, summer camps, and more.
GIVHANS FERRY STATE PARK
746 Givhans Ferry Road
Ridgeville, SC 29472
Givhans Ferry State Park sites at the end of the Edisto River Canoe & Kayak Trail and offers kayak and canoeing, a hiking trail, fishing, camping, swimming, biking, picnic shelter, and more!
Did you know?
The Edisto is considered the longest free-flowing blackwater river in the United States and one of the longest worldwide.