In a region known for its creeks, Carolina Bays, and black water swamps, boardwalks are abundant. Explorers can reach parts of a forest otherwise inaccessible and immerse themselves in the natural world that makes eastern South Carolina so alluring. Many of the region’s Certified Sites have boardwalks.

Naming just a few to try:

Cheraw State Park in Cheraw takes hikers and cyclists across Lake Juniper dam.

Kalmia Gardens in Hartsville drops you through a mountain laurel-filled forest to the banks of Black Creek.

Lee State Park near Bishopville stretches into the Lynches River swamp where wildlife is abundant…birds, snakes, and all.

Lynches River County Park in Scranton is up in the air — the canopy walk is not to be missed.

Williamson Park’s 4 boardwalks in Darlington zig zag back and forth across Swift Creek for a great 1-2 mile walk.

Woods Bay State Natural Area in Olanta (lower Florence County) helps you see an unadulterated Carolina Bay, one of the region’s most distinctive geologic features. You might see an alligator or two, too.

For a more urban experience on a boardwalk, try the
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, part of the East Coast Greenway, a 2,000 mile walking trail on the eastern seaboard.
or
Start at Morse Park to visit the Marsh Walk along Restaurant Row in Murrells Inlet.

Photo courtesy of Margaret Meriwether