About: The Francis Beidler Forest is an Audubon wildlife sanctuary in Four Holes Swamp, a blackwater creek system. It consists of over 18,000 acres of mainly bald cypress and tupelo gum hardwood forest and swamp with approximately 1,800 acres of old-growth forest. There are two trails, an old growth virgin forest cypress tupelo swamp boardwalk and the grassland-woodland trail. Pets and bikes are not allowed on either trail.
The state office of Audubon South Caroline is located at the Francis Beidler Forest. The boardwalk starts from the offices and visitor center into the Four Holes Swamp containing the largest remaining stand of virgin bald cypress and black gum trees in the world.
Location: From I-26 exit 187 (Highway 27 south) turn left on Highway 27. After 1.2 miles turn right on US 78. In 2.7 miles bear right on US 178 for 0.7 miles, and turn on Beidler Forest Road. In 4.1 miles, when Beidler Forest Road makes a 90-degree turn to the left, contnue straight on Mims Road. After 1.1 miles turn right on the dirt entrance road to Francis Beidler Forest. 336 Sanctuary Road, Harleyville, South Carolina 29448. Telephone 843-487-9988.
Hours: Open Wednesdays thru Saturdays 9 AM to 6 PM and Sundays 11 AM to 4 PM. The boardwalk requires tickets and is only open and available to the public during operation hours, whereas the grassland-woodland trail is open every day sunrise to sunset.
Link: https://beidler.audubon.org/
