Jasper Co. Area | Sights to See

Jasper County | Sights to See

Hardeeville Sites

Ridgeland Sites

Argent Steam Engine “Old Number 7”
36 Main Street
This rare train was built around 1910 by the H.K. Porter Company. “Number 7” was used to haul timber. It is a wonderful relic for the logging and lumbering industry.
History and Nature are Alive in Hardeeville Blog Post

Blue Heron Nature Trail
321 Bailey Lane, Ridgeland | (843)726-7611
This easy walking 0.6 mile loop is home to turtles, ducks, wading herons, and alligators. The path leads visitors around a pond and into a low-lying wooded. area. The Nature Center is open for viewing Monday thru Friday 9:00am to noon.
Ridgeland’s Blue Heron Nature Trail Blog Post

Hardeeville Dog Park
2293 Main Street | (843)227-4089
Bring your dog to the Hardeeville Dog Park and spend the afternoon off-leash without worries. The park is divided into three areas for small, large, and senior dogs ages 7 and older.  The park also has a water fountain for dogs.

Church of the Holy Trinity, Grahamville
2718 Bees Creek Road, Ridgeland | (843)726-3743
This stately Episcopal Church was spared on General Sherman’s march through the area simply because it had been used as a headquarters for Federal troops during the Civil War. Built at Grahamville in 1855, the church now has a recently refurbished interior. A more modern parish house nearby simulates the Gothic design of the church building. The church Bible, probably stolen during the Civil War, was returned to Grahamville in 1928. A New York music publisher had discovered it in an attic.
Historic Churches of Ridgeland Blog Post

Hardeeville Methodist Church
111 Main Street
No sooner had the Hardeeville Methodist Church been dedicated for worship in 1860 than the nation was launched into civil war and the building was put to use as a hospital. The frame church building originally contained a sizeable gallery for use by local slaves. Church members also adhered to the custom of seating men on the right and women on the left.
History and Nature are Alive in Hardeeville Blog Post

Euhaw Baptist Church
2576 Bees Creek Road, Ridgeland | (843)726-3343
Although the existing building at Grahamville is relatively new, the original Euhaw Baptist Church was organized in 1751 as part of the Charles Town Baptist Association. Located on Euhaw Creek, a few miles from the present site, the original building fell into disuse as families began moving to Grahamville, and in 1865 it was destroyed by Union troops. The present structure, built in 1907 has beautiful twin towers on each side of the entrance.
Historic Churches of Ridgeland Blog Post

Hardeeville Recreation Center
285 John Smith Road | (843)227-4089
This state of the art 35,000 square foot facility has a fully equipped fitness center, indoor walking track, basketball courts, Tai Chi classes, yoga and much, much more.

Gillisonville Baptist Church
10158 Grays Highway, Ridgeland
Gillisonville was the governmental seat of Beaufort District when the church building was completed in 1838. The pulpit, in fact, had once been the judge’s seat. All that has been changed on this simple but beautiful church is the steeple, which was demolished by a Union cannon during the Civil War. Box pews and a slave gallery in the rear remains today. Union troops used the church as a headquarters during the war, and one of the old Communion plates still used today is inscribed: “War of 1861-2-3-4. Feb. 1865 This done by a Yankee soldier.”
Historic Churches of Ridgeland Blog Post

Purrysburg Monument
Hwy. 34 & 203, 2 miles west of Hardeeville, Purrysburg Road
Purrysburg was founded in 1732 by Swiss Huguenots but failed due to competition from nearby Savannah. A cross marks the settlement’s location on the Savannah River today, celebrating Hardeeville’s earliest history.
History and Nature are Alive in Hardeeville Blog Post

Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage
10782 Jacob Smart Boulevard South, Ridgeland | (843)284-9227
Located in the heart of downtown Ridgeland in a historic Sinclair Service Station, the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage is a learning and exhibition center dedicated to preserving and nurturing the history, culture and spirit of Jasper County and its surrounding counties.

Savannah National Wildlife Refuge
694 Beech Hill Lane | (843)784-2468
The Savannah National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center and nature trail is located on Hwy 17, north of the Georgia border, near Hardeeville. The 5-mile drive through old rice field dikes can be accessed via Hwy 170. The refuge is home to over 7,000 acres of wetlands flora and fauna. There are also over 40 miles of hiking and biking trails for your enjoyment.
Trail Map
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge Blog Post

Pratt Memorial Library
451A Wilson Street, Ridgeland | (843)726-774
Jasper County’s public library in Ridgeland is significant both for what it houses and for its exterior. Inside, the walls of the library are graced with more than 200 portraits and maps relating to lowcountry history. Some 250 rare books tell the history of the area, and archeological artifacts make for fascinating displays. Outside, the building is adorned by a beautiful garden designed by nationally renowned landscape architect Richard K. Webel. It was Mrs. Webel who donated the building to the people of Jasper County in memory of her late husband, Frederic R. Pratt. The building was formerly a part of the Ridgeland Elementary School, built in the 1920’s.

Sergeant Jasper Park
1458 Red Dam Road | (843)784-5130
This park features walking trails, kayak and canoe rentals, and a disk golf course, along with a playground and meeting facility.
Sergeant Jasper Park Blog Post

Robertville Baptist Church
26 Robertville Drive, Robertville
Black Swamp Baptist Church was organized in 1781, but its church building was burned by Sherman’s troops during the Civil War. About three years later the Black Swamp congregation bought the present-day structure, then a 20-year-old Episcopal Church building, and moved it from Gillisonville. The white frame building has Greek Revival architectural features. Black Swamp Baptist was renamed Robertville Baptist in 1934 to honor the native Robert family, one member of which was the author of Robert’s Rules of Order.
Historic Churches of Ridgeland Blog Post

Thomas Heyward Jr. Tomb
Thomas Heyward, Jr. (1749-1809) was most famous as a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He was a member of the South Carolina Bar, a statesman, a circuit court judge, and a founder and the first president of the Agricultural Society of South Carolina. When he was named a delegate to the Continental Congress in 1776 he was not yet 30 years old. The burial site is across the creek from White Hall Plantation where Heyward lived. A half-mile-long lane of live oaks leads from Highway 462 to the family cemetery where the State of South Carolina erected a monument and bust of Heyward in 1920.

Hampton County | Sights to See

Hampton County | Sights to See

Brunson Town Hall Museum

Brunson Museum
800 Railroad Avenue | (843) 632-3363
This museum is housed in the original town hall. Ripley’s “Believe It or Not” cited it as the world’s only town hall on stilts. Although no longer on stilts, it stands tall and proud as a landmark of this once “largest town” on the Charleston & Western Railroad. The main reason for the stilts was to provide shade for the artesian well.
Looking for a Museum in Hampton County Blog Post
Savor the Sights of Hampton County Blog Post

Hampton's American Legion Hut

Hampton’s American Legion Hut
302 Hoover Street, Hampton
In 1933 the American Legion Post 108 constructed this building of local cypress logs. Today it still serves as a community gathering spot. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Hampton County Courthouse

Hampton County Courthouse
1 Elm Street West, Hampton
This “Temple of Justice” is on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1878, the same year the SC General Assembly declared this northern portion of Beaufort County its own separate county.
Savor the Sights of Hampton County Blog Post

Hampton County Museum Old Jail

Hampton County Museum
702 First Street West, Hampton | (803) 943-5484
Housed in the former Hampton Jailhouse building, operated & maintained as a joint effort by Hampton County & the Historic Society. Contains a Civil War memorabilia, including various maps, uniforms, photographs of the county, its people & their ancestors.
Looking for a Museum in Hampton County Blog Post
Savor the Sights of Hampton County Blog Post

Hampton Museum + Visitor Center

Hampton Museum & Visitors Center
15 Elm Street East, Hampton | (803) 943-5318
This museum is housed in the old Bank of Hampton. Inside you can still see the hand painted bank vault along with military artifacts, as well as a children’s room. Exhibits antique medical equipment donated by local physicians & a section dedicated to ethnic cultures of the Lowcountry. Local craftsmen & artisans also contribute to continuous rotating exhibits. On National Register of Historic Places.
Looking for a Museum in Hampton County Blog Post
Savor the Sights of Hampton County Blog Post

Lake Warren State Park

Lake Warren State Park
1079 Lake Warren Road, Hampton | (803) 943-5051
The park has a 200 acre lake and two-acre pond perfect for freshwater fishing. Hike the the Interpretive Trail or Yemassee Nature trail to spot local flora and fauna. Or head out on the Fit trail for a little exercise. Take in the sunset at the gazebo dock. The park offer four picnic shelters, a playground, and Hampton Hall that is perfect for your next event.
Lake Warren State Park Blog Post
SC State Parks of the Lowcountry Blog Post

Lawtonville Baptist Church

Lawtonville Baptist Church
460 Fourth Street East, Estill | (803) 625-2871
The church was organized in 1775 as Pipe Creek Church located near the Savannah River. It moved to the Lawtonville community by 1836 and in 1865 was used as a hospital by Union troops. The Congregation changed its name to Lawtonville Baptist Church in 1884.
Savor the Sights of Hampton County Blog Post

Palmetto Theater

Palmetto Theater
109 Lee Avenue, Hampton | (803) 842-9842
The Palmetto Theater is significant as an example of small-town, southern, 1940s movie theater. The Art Deco- influenced Art Modern architectural style reflects the social and economic pressures of the post-war period.
Hampton’s Art Deco Influenced Palmetto Theater Blog Post

Sheldon Chapel Episcopal

Sheldon Chapel Episcopal Church
25481 Pocotaligo Road, McPhersonville
It was first built in 1832, as a summer place of worship by the congregation of Sheldon Church of Prince William’s Parish (now famous as “Old Sheldon” ruins). The Confederate Army used the church as a smallpox clinic.
Savor the Sights of Hampton County Blog Post

Stoney Creek Chapel

Stoney Creek Presbyterian Chapel
155 County Road S-25-286, McPhersonville
Circa 1832. Built in the high piney woods in McPhersonville. Plantation owners & their families had summer residences here. Many gave up portions of their property to provide place of worship. The chapel was also used as a hospital during the Civil War.
Driving Detour Through Yemassee Blog Post
Savor the Sights of Hampton County Blog Post

Webb WMA

Webb Wildlife Center
1282 Webb Avenue, Garnett | (803) 625-3569
This globally recognized bird area consist of over 25,000 acres bordering the Savannah River. many visitors are attracted to the area for birdwatching. Explore the Savannah River Trail on the beautiful property.
Webb Wildlife Management Area Blog Post

Hilton Head Island | Sights to See

Hilton Head Island Sights to See

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Audubon Newhall Preserve
Palmetto Bay Road | (843) 842-9246
Audubon Newhall Preserve is a beautiful inland park on Hilton Head Island. It has a number of nice hiking trails winding their way through the woods. There are benches placed along the path. The center of the trail contains a scenic pond and wetland and boardwalk. In this 50-acre preserve, many native plants & many birds have been identified. Dogs are welcome on these trails.  According to the trail guide, “The Audubon Newhall Preserve was established in 1965 as the Island Wildlife Preserve, when Caroline “Beany” Newhall, (recognizing the need to conserve woodlands,) persuaded Charles Fraser of the Sea Pines Company to deed 50 acres of land for the preserve.”

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Coastal Discovery Museum
70 Honey Horn Drive | (843) 689-6767
Honey Horn consists of 68 acres of breathtaking natural beauty and a dozen historic structures scattered throughout the property. Guided Walks and Terrace Talks teach of the varied nature and rich history of the area. An art gallery and interactive exhibits are found in the main structure.
Read our Coastal Discovery Blog.

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Harbour Town Lighthouse
149 Lighthouse Road | (843) 686-6560
This beautiful marina is located at the end of Lighthouse Road in Sea Pines Plantation.  See the Harbour Town Lighthouse, Harbour Town Yacht Basin and many charming boutiques and restaurants. Admission fee to Sea Pines.

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Heritage Library History & Ancestry Research Center
2 Corpus Christi | (843) 686-6560
The Heritage Library offers research assistance on ancestry, along with classes and tours focused on Hilton Head Island’s history from prehistory to the modern era. The Heritage Library owns two historic sites, Ft. Mitchel and the Historic Zion Cemetery & Baynard Mausoleum.

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Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park
226 Beach City Road | (843) 255-7301
Visit Hilton Head’s historic Mitchelville freedom Park. This is the site of the first settlement for former slaves. This park is very important in the history of freedom towns that were established during the Reconstruction era. Tour the park at your own pace or join a tour group.

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Old Zion Cemetery
574 William Hilton Parkway
Grave sites of families of prominent Lowcountry Sea Island cotton plantations, most pre-dating 1860. Site of the Zion Chapel of Ease, part of the Anglican St. Luke’s Parish, established 1767.

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Sea Pines Forest Preserve
175 Greenwood Drive | (843)671-1343
The Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a 605 acre protected area for wildlife habitat and outdoor exploration in the heart of Sea Pines. The preserve includes bridle paths, wetland boardwalks, bridges and fishing docks.

Edisto Beach | Sights to See

Edisto Beach | Sights to See

Bay Creek Park

Bay Creek Park
3706 Dock Site Road | (843)603-0009
This park is owned by the Town of Edisto Beach and is an excellent place to try your hand at fishing or crabbing off the dock. There are open areas for a family picnic or a romantic walk with a spectacular view of the marsh surrounding Big Bay Creek. There is an interpretative center there and on Wednesdays, they have an Arts and Crafts and Farmers Market, weather permitting. Bay Creek Park is also a great venue for different festivals during the year.

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Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve/Wildlife Management Area
Botany Bay Road, Edisto Island | (843)844-8957
Botany Bay Plantation, a 4,630-acre tract located on Edisto Island, is now open for public access. The ecologically and historically significant property was privately maintained until recently by former owner, Margaret Pepper. The late Mrs. Pepper preserved the natural integrity of the land and fostered a diverse array of habitats including maritime forests, salt marsh, tidal creeks, freshwater ponds and hammock islands. The tract is now managed by S.C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as a part of the agency’s Wildlife Management Area (WMA) program. DNR’s stewardship of the property will continue Peppers’ customary legacy towards enhancing habitat for all wildlife species while providing public access including compatible educational and recreational opportunities and uses of the land.
Edisto Island’s Botany Bay Blog Post

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Edisto Beach State Park and Interpretive Center
8377 State Cabin Road, Edisto Island | (843)869-2156
Edisto Beach State Park features trails for hiking and biking that provide a wonderful tour of the park. The park’s environmental education center is a “green” building with exhibits that highlight the natural history of Edisto Island and the surrounding ACE Basin. With the theme “Choosing to Protect Our Coast,” the Edisto Interpretive Center helps promote the wise use of coastal resources.
Edisto Beach State Park Blog Post

Edisto Museum

Edisto Island Museum
8123 Chisolm Plantation Road, Edisto Island | (843)869-1954
Exhibits of sea island plantation life, Civil War & Native American displays.

Edisto Serpentarium Alligator

Edisto Island Serpentarium
1374 Highway 174, Edisto Island | (843)869-1171
The Edisto Island Serpentarium is a culmination of more than 50 years of snake hunting adventure and experience by brothers Ted and Heyward Clamp of Edisto Island, SC. The modern indoor facility and beautifully landscaped outdoor gardens house a wide variety of reptiles, mostly those collected by the Clamp brothers and native to the southeastern United States. The reptiles in the outdoor gardens are not displayed behind glass but are viewed by visitors who look over low-walled enclosures to observe the snakes living in streams, climbing in trees or basking on stumps or logs exactly as they would be seen if encountered in the wild.
Edisto Island Serpentarium Blog Post

Ace-Basin

Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge
8675 Willtown Road, Hollywood | (843)889-3084
ACE stands for the Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto rivers basin system. The refuge is home to migratory and resident birds, reptiles and amphibians, fish and other wildlife. You can enjoy hiking and biking, photography, birding and observing other wildlife, hunting and fishing.
Located within the Edisto Unit is the Grove Plantation. Originally built by George Washington Morris in 1828. Today, the house is one of the few antebellum mansions left in the area after the Civil War. Come tour the historical home and rice fields today!
ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge

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Old First Baptist Church
1644 SC Highway 174, Edisto Island | (843)631-5040
This Church was founded and built in 1818 by the wife of an Edisto plantation owner, Hephzibah Jenkins Townsend. Many slaves worshiped here, and after the Civil War it was turned over to the African-American congregation. Descendants of 19th century members continue to worship today in the New First Baptist Missionary Church next door. The building is currently used by the Episcopal Church on Edisto.
Historic Churches of Edisto Island Blog Post

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Presbyterian Church on Edisto
2164 SC Highway 174, Edisto Island | (843)869-2326
Established in 1685, the Presbyterian Church on Edisto Island is one of the oldest Presbyterian churches in the country. Tourists and genealogical researchers often frequent its historic graveyard, which dates back to 1787 and is the final resting place of many Edisto Island natives.
Historic Churches of Edisto Island Blog Post

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Trinity Episcopal Church
1589 SC Highway 174, Edisto Island | (843)869-3568
Founded in 1774, the present church, consecrated in 1881, stands on the sight of the old sanctuary. The church was occupied by federal troops during the Civil War, destroyed by fire in 1876 and damaged by the hurricane of 1893. The sanctuary was rebuilt and features beautiful interior work done by a former slave. The old bead-board and blown glass windows have been lovingly preserved.
Historic Churches of Edisto Island Blog Post

Daufuskie Island | Sights to See

Daufuskie Island Sights to See

Bloody Point Lighthouse Museum
Daufuskie Island | (843) 342-8687
Constructed in 1882 and in service for half a century, the Bloody Point Lighthouse marked the coastline to guide boaters into the channel, and aid in safe passage into and out of the Savannah River. Today it is a well preserved historic structure which houses a collection of artifacts and documents telling the story of Daufuskie of the last century. An interpretive garden featuring heritage crops of the Low Country, such as cotton, rice and indigo is located on the grounds of the museum.

Daufuskie Island History Museum
44 Old Haig Point Road, Daufuskie Island | (843) 342-8687
The museum’s collection reflects the history of Daufuskie Island from its pre-Colonial days through the mid-20th century.

Robert Kennedy Historic Trail
Various Locations, Daufuskie Island | (843) 384-6363
This trail maps out 20 of Daufuskie’s cultural and historical landmarks. Download or pick up your hard copy map at the Billie Burn Museum.
Daufuskie Gullah History Trail Blog Post

Bluffton Area | Sights to See

Bluffton Area | Sights to See

factorypark

Bluffton Oyster Factory Park
63 Wharf Street, Old Town Bluffton | (843)757-4010
Located on the May River in Old Town Bluffton, the park celebrates the oldest continuous operating oyster shucking facility in South Carolina. Opened in the early 1900’s, the 4.5 acre site on the pristine May River was purchased by the Beaufort County Open Land Trust and has evolved into a community park. The Garvin-Garvey Freedman’s Cottage sits on the bluff overlooking the river.

shellart

Bluffton Shell Art Trail
Throughout Old Town Bluffton | (888)587-4593, ext. 2
The Shell Art Trail is a new cultural art exhibit. 21 unique fiberglass oyster sculptures have been placed throughout Old Town Bluffton. Each oyster is a true work of art, painted by a local artist. Download a digital map or print out your own Shell Art Trail Passbook and get ready to follow the trail to the most spectacularly decorated sculptures you’ve ever seen. A special plaque on each will provide you with a unique “oyster fact” in answer to questions in your Passbook.  Match questions and answers to increase your knowledge as you travel the Trail.
Bluffton’s Shell Art Trail Blog Post

oldtownbluffton

Calhoun Street Art District
Calhoun Street, Bluffton | (843)757-6293
Collection of art galleries clustered along Calhoun Street, in the center of Old Town Bluffton.

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Campbell Chapel AME Church
23 Boundary Street, Bluffton | (843)757-3652
The Campbell Chapel AME Church is the oldest surviving church within the historic district of Bluffton. Constructed in 1853 by the Bluffton Methodist Episcopal Church, the property changed hands in 1874 when it was purchased by freedmen. The church is believed to have been built by slaves.
Campbell Chapel AME Blog Post.

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Church of the Cross Episcopal
110 Calhoun Street, Bluffton | (843)757-2661
This Gothic structure was built in 1857. Inside visitors will find soft pink plaster walls and exposed pine timbers, along with a walnut alter. In 1863 Federal troops burned much of the area but left this church untouched.
Church of the Cross Blog Post

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Garvin-Garvey House
63 Wharf Street, Bluffton | (843) 757-6293
This 1870 Freedman’s Cottage is a great example of the late 19th century Carolina Lowcountry architecture. It was constructed by Cyrus Garvin during the Reconstruction era. Guided tours are available and last approximately 30 minutes.
Garvin Garvey Freedman’s Cottage Blog Post

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The Heyward House
70 Boundary Street, Bluffton | (843)757-6293
Built-in 1841 as a summer cottage for a Lowcountry planter, the Heyward House is Southern Beaufort County’s only house museum and Bluffton’s official welcome center. It offers free information on things to see and do Also available are docent-guided tours of the site.
Heyward House Blog Post.

piw

Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge 
Off Hwy. 278, between the bridges to Hilton Head Island | (843) 784-2468
This 4,053 acres refuge preserves salt marsh and maritime habitat. Historical marker commemorating Major General Charles Cotesworth Pinckney. It offers ideal opportunities for hiking, bicycling, photography, and wildlife observation.
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge Blog Post

bluffton garden

Pritchard Pocket Park
End of Pritchard Street, Bluffton | (843)706-4500
A living example of Bluffton’s River Overlay Protection District, this planted buffer provides visitors the opportunity to see how vegetated buffers along waterways protect water quality and enhance property aesthetics.

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Society of Bluffton Artists
6 Church Street, Bluffton | (843)757-6586
A co-op gallery of Bluffton artists and craftspeople, the Guild is located in the historic Planters Mercantile building. Featuring original paintings in various media and styles, hand-made pottery, jewelry, turned wood pieces, baskets and more.

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Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve/Wildlife Management Area
Sawmill Creek Road, Bluffton | (843)546-8119
The 977 acre Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve provides an escape from the crowds. The preserve contains an example of the pine-saw palmetto flatwoods community, which is rare in South Carolina. As the name suggests, the pine-saw palmetto community is dominated by longleaf and slash pine in the overstory and saw palmetto in the understory. The other community type located on the preserve is the mainland maritime forest. This community occurs adjacent to the saltwater creeks and is dominated by live oak, cabbage palm, and slash pine. The preserve provides an excellent area for birdwatching, particularly in the spring. Pine, yellow-throated, and yellow rumped warblers, white-eyed vireos, summer tanagers and flycatchers can be seen in a short time. White-tailed deer, fox and gray squirrels can also be observed.

Beaufort Area | Sights to See

Beaufort Area | Sights to See

Beaufort Arsenal

Beaufort Arsenal Museum
713 Craven Street | (843)525-8500
Built in 1798 & expanded in 1852. As a result of the secessionist movement. Contains Civil War artifacts and exhibits on local history.
Beaufort Arsenal Museum Blog Post

Beaufort National Cemetery

Beaufort National Cemetery
1601 Boundary Street | (843)524-3925
One of the first cemeteries established during the Civil War, it is one of the few that contains the remains of both Confederate and Union soldiers.

St. Helena Chapel of Ease

Chapel of Ease
Land’s End Road, St. Helena’s Island
Built between 1742 and 1747 to serve the planters on St. Helena Island. In 1886, a forest fire destroyed part of the brick and tabby chapel. The ruins and a small graveyard remain.
Chapel of Ease Blog Post

Charlesfort Monument

Charlesfort-Santa Elena National Historic Landmark
Parris Island Marine Corp Station | (843)228-2951
Visit the site of the early French and Spanish settlements. There is a small exhibit at the site; full exhibit at the Parris Island Museum.

Cypress Wetlands Trail

Cypress Wetlands Trail
1700 Paris Ave, Port Royal | (843)524-4333
Cypress Wetlands Rookery Loop is a 0.8 mile loop trail located in Port Royal, that offers the chance to see wildlife and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, nature trips, and birding and is best used from April until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The wetlands support abundant populations of native wildlife.  The trail around the wetland is a combination of boardwalk, paved trail, and roadside pedestrian and bike trail.
Cypress Wetlands Rookery, Henry Robinson Boardwalk and Sands Beach Blog Post

Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick
601 Old Fort Road, Port Royal | (843)255-2152
Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve is a 6-acre property owned by the SC Department of Natural Resources and Beaufort County. Fort Frederick is the oldest surviving tabby fort in South Carolina and the oldest known tabby structure in Beaufort County. Built by the British colonial government between 1733 and 1735, its most important contribution to history was over one hundred years later on Jan. 1, 1863, when people walked across a dock over the top of Fort Frederick to hear the first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in the Southern states.  Visitors can enjoy lunch under a covered pavilion and read historical details on the interpretive signs. The property is open from dawn to dusk every day.
Fort Frederick Blog Post

Fort Fremont

Fort Fremont Preserve
1124 Land’s End Road, St. Helena Island | (843)255-2152
A unique example of a Spanish American War Endicott Era fortification built to protect the U.S. Naval Station in Port Royal.
St. Helena’s Lands End Road Blog Post

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Hunting Island State Park
2555 Sea Island Pkwy. | (843)838-2011.
Lighthouse, cabin, camping, picnic shelters, lagoon fishing, boat ramp, nature programs, park store, gift shop, nature center, marsh boardwalk, admission fee.
Walk on the Wild Side Blog Post
Get Away from the Everyday: Little Hunting Island Blog Post
Hunting Island Lighthouse is closed for repairs, but visitors have options.

John Mark Verdier House

John Mark Verdier House
801 Bay Street, Beaufort | (843)379-6335
Operated by the Historic Beaufort Foundation. Circa 1800. Built in the Federal style by one of Beaufort’s most successful merchants, it is an excellent example of an early Lowcountry home. Museum gift shop open.
John Mark Verdier House Museum Blog Post

The Mather School

The Mather Museum & Interpretive Center
921 Ribaut Rd, Building #1, Beaufort | (843)379-2787
Located on the campus of the Technical College of the Lowcountry, this museum depicts the history of the Mather School and its founder Rachel Crane Mather. The school was founded in 1868, shortly after the civil war, to teach the daughters of the newly freed slaves how to read and write and become homemakers. The School remained open for 100 years, closing it’s doors in 1968 and becoming a state trade school and eventually the Technical College of the Lowcountry. Hours of operation: Tues-Fri 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Old Sheldon Church Ruins

Old Sheldon Church Ruins
948 Old Sheldon Church Rd., Yemassee | (843)522-1712
1.7 miles north of the junction of Highways 21 & 17 near Gardens Corner. Sheldon Church has laid in ruin for more than 140 years. Its gable roof, pediment, windows & interior have disappeared, but the classic simplicity of its design still remains. Burned by Prevost’s British troops in 1779, and again during the Civil War it still serves as a religious center for special observances. Admission – Free.
DRIVING TOUR BLOG POST
OLD SHELDON RUINS GAIN PROTECTION BLOG POST
OLD SHELDON, THEN AND NOW BLOG POST

Parris Island Museum

Parris Island Museum
676 Panama St. | (843)228-2951
Housed in the War Memorial Building, it is devoted to the portrayal of the history &  development of Parris Island and the Port Royal area along with the Marine Corps & recruit training facilities.

Pat Conroy Literary Center

Pat Conroy Literary Center
601 Bladen St. | (843)-379-7025
The Pat Conroy Literary Center cultivates a passionate and inclusive reading and writing community in honor of Pat Conroy, who dedicated his life to spreading his love for literature and writing to future generations.

Penn Center

Penn Center
16 Penn Center Circle, West, St. Helena Island | (843)838-2432
The 50-acre Penn School National Historic Landmark District features the York W. Bailey Museum as well as 18 other structures related to the education of African Americans, Reconstruction, and the Civil Rights Era. Enjoy a permanent exhibit, “Education for Freedom: the Penn School Experiment,” as well as temporary exhibits. The museum, housed in the newly renovated Historic Cope Industrial Building, includes four galleries and a gift shop.
Penn Center Blog Post

Port Royal Museum

Port Royal Museum
1634 Paris Ave. | (843)524-4333
Take a trip back in time when lowcountry living was centered around the harvesting of seafood from the local creeks and rivers.  Find out how the deepest natural port provided opportunities and inspired local craftsmen to build boats and trawlers and market their bounties to the world.
Historic Port Royal Foundation Museum Blog Post

Port Royal Sound Foundation

Port Royal Sound Foundation
310 Okatie Highway | (843)645-7774
The Port Royal Sound Foundation features exhibits, classrooms, hands-on learning spaces and other areas where you can learn about and celebrate Port Royal Sound. Enjoy diverse and fun opportunities to experience and connect with the Port Royal Sound Area. Come by the Maritime Center to see the animals in action every Saturday at 2pm! A naturalist will feed and discuss the critters in various tanks. Fun for kids and adults alike! Other activities include Saturdays on the Sound, Tuesday Talks, Eco Boat Tours, story times and art contests.

Spanish Moss Trail

Spanish Moss Trail
Lowcountry’s Rails to Trail located in the heart of Northern Beaufort County, SC. This 10 mile long hiking and biking trail is open for public enjoyment.  The trail is open dawn to dusk. The path is open for pedestrians and non-motorized transportation (Exception: motorized wheelchairs). There are six parking trail heads available. The trail is open to pets on a leash; pet-waste stations are available. The trail offers beautiful water and marsh views and coastal wildlife viewing. It is also open for recreational fishing on various trestles. There are two restroom facilities (Broome Lane and Parker’s Convenience Store.
Trail head access located at Clarendon Road, Depot Road, Westvine Drive, Broome Lane Access, Beaufort Plaza, Roseida Road, & Clarendon Road.
PART 1 BLOG POST
PART 2 BLOG POST

St. Helena's Anglican Church

St. Helena’s Episcopal Church
507 Newcastle Street, Beaufort | (843)522-1712
Established in 1712 as a colonial parish of the Church of England, St. Helena’s Episcopal Church is one of the oldest churches in America. The original church was built on the present site in 1724 and appears today as it did in 1842 following its final enlargement.
Brief History and Map
The Parish Church of St. Helena Blog Post

Tabernacle + Robert Smalls

Tabernacle Baptist Church/Robert Smalls Grave
901 Craven Street, Beaufort | (843)524-0376
Tabernacle Church was formed by African-American members of Beaufort Baptist Church after Federal Occupation of the town in 1861. Robert Smalls, a slave who during the Civil War became a Union Naval Captain and later a US Congressman is buried in the churchyard.
Beaufort’s Hero Robert Smalls and Tabernacle Baptist Church Blog Post

Walterboro | Sights to See

Colleton County/Walterboro | Sights to See

ACE Basin Greenway/The ACE Trail
Intersection of SC Highway 303 & Folly Creek Lane
The Historic Ace Trail is located on a three acre site about 2 miles north of the intersection of US Hwy 17 and SC Hwy 303 in Colleton County.  It is adjacent a CSX rail crossing in the Green Pond community. The 3-mile trail is ideal for walking, biking, general exercise and bird watching.
Trail Map
SC Lowcountry Wildlife Preserves and Nature Trails Blog Post

Bear Island Wildlife Management Area
42 TiTi Road, Green Pond | (843) 844-8957
The Bear Island Wildlife Management Area is managed to provide quality habitat for wintering waterfowl and other wetland wildlife including threatened and endangered species such as wood storks and bald eagles; to provide habitat for upland game and nongame species; and to provide recreational opportunities for the hunting and nonhunting public. Open Feb. 9th – Oct. 31st. Sunrise to sunset. Located between the Ashepoo and South Edisto Rivers, off US Hwy 17 and approx. 2 miles east of Green Pond.  Regulated hunting. 
Trail Map
Bear Island Wildlife Management Area Blog

The Bedon-Lucas House Museum
205 Church Street, Walterboro | (843) 549-9633
Located in the historic district at 205 Church Street, this 1820’s “high house” was purchased and restored by the Colleton County Historical and Preservation Society. The interior has been preserved and features original heart of pine floors.
Walterboro’s Bedon-Lucas House Blog Post

Bee City Zoo
1066 Holly Ridge Lane, Cottageville | (843) 835-5912
This honey bee farm, petting zoo, café and gift shop is an experience that all should have. See honey bees at work from a screened observation area. See the Wallabies, Coatimundis, Serval Cats, Cavies as well as many farm animals: Miniature horses and donkeys, turkeys, chickens, quail, pheasants, etc.

Colleton Museum & Farmers Market
506 E Washington Street, Walterboro | (843) 549-2303
Located in the Historic District of Downtown Walterboro, the museum features a permanent collection that explores the county’s history from prehistoric times to the early 1900s. The museum also has an ongoing exhibit on “Animals of the ACE,” a natural history display featuring wild animals indigenous to the South Carolina Lowcountry. The museum also features changing art collections monthly. The Colleton Farmers Market offers fresh vegetables and fruits, local honey, local crafts, plants, baked goods, prepared food, music, and much more.

Colleton County Courthouse
101 Hampton Street, Walterboro
Completed in the fall of 1822, the outside walls are three bricks (28″) thick. The first nullification meeting in South Carolina was held here in 1828, when Robert Barnwell Rhett called for the immediate secession of the state legislature in protest of Federal tax laws. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Colleton State Park
147 Wayside Lane, Walterboro | (843) 538-8206
A paddler’s paradise, this Lowcountry park sits a short distance from I-95 and connects to Givhans Ferry State Park via 23 miles of blackwater river. Colleton State Park provides easy access to the Edisto River, one of the longest free flowing, blackwater rivers in the country, and serves as the headquarters for the Edisto River canoe and kayak trail.
Colleton State Park Blog Post

Donnelly Wildlife Management Area
585 Donnelley Drive, Green Pond | (843) 844-8957
With more than 8,000 acres of diverse habitats, Donnelley Wildlife Management Area is a favorite Lowcountry destination for birders looking to run up their list of avian sightings. Located in Green Pond on land once used for rice cultivation, the property features a historic rice field system now managed to attract waterfowl and other migratory birds. Among its impressive resident and visitor population are roseate spoonbills, Eurasian wigeon ducks, red-cockaded woodpeckers, bald eagles, painted buntings and the rare sandhill crane.
Donnelley Wildlife Management Area Blog Post

Edisto Nature Trail
17038 Ace Basin Parkway, Round O
In addition to local flora and fauna, see historical landmarks such as the King’s Highway, (dating from the 1700’s) former rice fields, and an old phosphate plant site. The Edisto Nature Trail is a 1.5 mile loop trail that takes visitors along the Edisto River and through several different types of forests, from maritime to pine.
Hiking the Edisto Nature Trail Blog Post

Ernest F Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge
8675 Willtown Road, Hollywood | (843) 889-3084
ACE stands for the Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto rivers basin system. The refuge is home to migratory and resident birds, reptiles and amphibians, fish and other wildlife. You can enjoy hiking and biking, photography, birding and observing other wildlife, hunting and fishing.
Located within the Edisto Unit is the Grove Plantation. Originally built by George Washington Morris in 1828. Today, the house is one of the few antebellum mansions left in the area after the Civil War. Come tour the historical home and rice fields today!
ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge

Herd It Here Farm
541 Sullivans Ferry Road, Cottageville | (703) 597-4839
This is a one-of-a kind agritourism destination that provides an enjoyable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.  Learn about alpacas, silkie chickens, fainting goats, and more.
Herd It Here Farm Blog Post

Pon Pon Chapel of Ease
Parkers Ferry Road, Round O
The Pon Pon Chapel Ruins are situated on what was once the Parkers Ferry Road, 1 mile from SC 64. One of two chapels of ease established by an Act of the General Assembly in 1725 to serve St. Bartholomew’s Parish. This chapel burned in 1801 & 1832. It was known as Burnt Church after 1832. The ruins today are enough to distinguish the chapel’s gracious features.
Pon Pon Chapel of Ease Blog Post

South Carolina Artisans Center
334 Wichman Street, Walterboro | (843) 549-0011
The South Carolina Artisans Center is the premier travel destination in the Lowcountry for handcrafted art. Designated by our legislature as the “Official South Carolina Folk Art and Craft Center,” the retail center features the artwork of more than 300 of South Carolina’s finest, juried artists. We invite you to explore our handcrafted art from handpicked artists. See, touch, smell, taste, and shop…Representing over 200 of the State’s finest juried artists and craftsmen, demonstrations & exhibits.
A Menagerie of Art | South Carolina Artisans Center Blog Post

Tuskegee Airmen Monument
Lowcountry Regional Airport, 537 Aviation Way, Walterboro
During World War II, the Walterboro Army Airfield served as a training ground for the Army airmen including a group of the Tuskegee Airmen. A monument honoring the bravery & dedication of the Tuskegee Airmen was placed in Walterboro Army Airfield Memorial Park at the site of the original airfield in May 1997. This was also the site of a POW camp & base hospital.

Walterboro Library Society Building (Little Library)
803 Wichman Street, Walterboro | (843) 549-9633
Now headquarters of the Colleton County Historical & Preservation Society, the “Little Library” was built in 1820 when the Library Society was established. The small frame building is an excellent example of Federal architecture. Listed on the National Register of Historical Places.

Walterboro Wildlife Center
100 S Jefferies Boulevard, Walterboro | (843) 782-6081
The Walterboro Wildlife Center is an interpretive exhibit hall showcasing the plant and animal life in the Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary and the Lowcountry. The 7,000 square foot discovery center coordinates with the Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary.
Walterboro Wildlife Center Blog Post

Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary
Detreville Street, Walterboro
Comprised of over 600 acres of braided creek and  hardwood flats. The sanctuary offers an asphalt bike/walking trail, a canoe/kayak-looped  trail, a beaver pond, a duck pond, a butterfly garden, wildlife food plots, and feeding stations. Bridges, boardwalks, and a natural walking trail,  including a portion of Charleston to Savannah Wagon/Stagecoach Road.
Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary Blog Post

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SOUTH CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY

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The Lowcountry & Resort Islands Region of South Carolina includes the four, southern-most counties in the state, Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton, and Colleton, which are bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by the Savannah River and the state of Georgia.

The South Carolina Lowcountry Guidebook is filled with many things to see and do in the beautiful Lowcountry of South Carolina. Please fill out the information and we will send you a FREE GUIDE BOOK.

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