Blackwater Cypress Swamp Kayaking

 

Unfortunately, the 2013 Blackwater Swamp kayak season has ended. This trip will likely not resume until January 2014 and is expected to run through April 2014. We would like to thank the swamp and all its inhabitants, including Swamp yetti, for a lively 2013 season!

The Blackwater Cypress Swamp at Middleton Place offers a unique opportunity to kayak in one of South Carolina’s most mysterious ecosystems. As you paddle beneath the 100ft+ canopy of Cypress and Tupelo trees, your naturalist guide will share knowledge about the human history , and the plants and animals that make their home in this special environment. Migratory ducks, raptors, herons, woodpeckers, owls,white tail deer, and wild pigs are just a few of the animals that are often spotted while kayaking. These bottomland forests were an integral part of the early rice culture of South Carolina, and signs of this history is still evident. Navigation can be tricky within the swamp, so we only offer this trip as a guided kayak tour, ie no self-guided kayak rentals.  There are no currents, no wind exposure, and no crowds, so the paddling itself is very laid back. The flooding of the swamp is a seasonal event, and typically only takes place from February  until early May, so be sure to book your spot. This guided kayak tour departs from the National Historic Landmark property of Middleton Place, a short 20-30 min drive from downtown Charleston South Carolina.

Schedule:  Sun.  Tues. Thurs.  Sat.  9:30am  11:30am or 1:00pm Tours for Wed. and Fri are usually available, but times vary, so please call for availability. Other days/ times may be available by advance request . Excepting reservations for trips thru May 7.

Cost: The cost is $65 per person. This cost is inclusive of guide, gear, shuttle, and tax. Optional gratuity may be added at the conclusion of your trip if you feel your guide provided exceptional service. Groups of 5 or more $60 per person.

Time: This tour is scheduled as a 3 hour event. This includes the approximate 15 minute scenic shuttle drive from our meeting location to the launch site. No experience necessary.   

Where: This tour meets at the Lodge building at the Inn at Middleton Place. Here you will have an opportunity to use restroom facilities, store valuables, and complete tour registration information.

Group Size: Tours can be arranged with a minimum of 2 people. For individual paddlers, we can add you to a trip already organized. To maintain the quality of this tour and its intimate feel, we keep the tours to a maximum of 6 participants (trips average 4 participants). Groups larger than 6 may arrange for a private tour. Parties with fewer than 6 participants may request a private tour at an additional cost. We use tandem kayaks only on the swamp tour. (Singles available on private tours or odd number parties)