Black River Swamp Preserve

The Black River Swamp Preserve is located in Georgetown County near Andrews, South Carolina. This slow-moving river is characterized by high concentrations of organic carbon, which accounts for the tea-colored water and gives rise to the diverse habitats in its widespread floodplain. The preserve consists of 1,276 acres along the Black River, dominated by mature bald cypress, swamp tupelo gum, and mixed bottomland hardwoods. The area contains nine unique old grown (virgin) loblolly pine islands or hammocks, some small and some medium-sized, which are inaccessible except by foot. Individual trees on these hammocks reach 30"-34" in diameter at breast height. The Black River Swamp Preserve supports small-to-moderate populations of three rare plant species: sarvis holly, false dragonhead, and riverband quillwort. This is the only known location of the riverbank quillwort in South Carolina. The American alligator, another threatened species, makes its home at this preserve. There is also a good possibility that this stretch of river is used by the endangered shortnose sturgeon. Other species of interest in the Black River Swamp include the wood duck, yellow water lily, and various wading birds.

To reach the preserve from Andrews, take SC Highway 41 north to Secondary Road 38. Turn right onto this road and go approximately 2 miles to a dirt road on the right. Turn right onto the dirt road and go to the Pine Tree public boat ramp. This preserve is located on the east side of the river and extends approximately 1.5 miles upstream and 2 miles downstream of the boat ramp.