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Guided Kayak & Canoe Trips

Two boys paddle upstream in a metal canoe. Large trees rise from the water on either side of them.
Photo: Mac Stone

Paddle the flowing blackwater under towering 1,000-year-old cypress trees as an Audubon naturalist leads you deep into the heart of the forest. You’ll treasure this unique view of the swamp for the rest of your life!

We'll be releasing our 2024 schedule soon! When they are available you'll be able to register your tickets at our registration page.

Rules and Recommendations

  • Reservations Required: Seasonal trips must be reserved online at least 24 hours in advance. Follow this link to make your reservation today. We suggest that you sign up early - our canoe trips are very popular attractions, so they fill up fast! Call 843-487-9988 or email beidler@audubon.org with any questions.
  • Cancellation Policy: Tickets are non-refundable. If we cancel the trip due to inclement weather or other, of course, you will be fully reimbursed and we will notify you at least 24 hours in advance.
  • Minimum Capacity: If three or fewer participants are registered for a trip, we reserve the right to cancel the trip 24 hours in advance. 
  • Availability: Canoe trips are subject to our having enough water from recent rains. Based on historic water levels, trip conditions become increasingly unlikely from June through September. 
  • Canoes and Kayaks: Our tours are limited to 6 boats. We have 2-3 person canoes, 2 person kayaks, and a few single kayaks. This means there will usually be two people per canoe or two people per 2-person kayak. What boats are used are dependent upon the number of people in the tour and will be determined by the guide on the day of your tour.
  • Your Own Equipment: We allow you to bring your own kayaks, paddles, and life vests, but we recommend being able to transport kayaks atop your vehicle instead of behind a trailer. We do not recommend bringing a kayak with a rudder unless you want to become more acquainted with every fallen tree just under the water. 
  • Experience: We recommend that you arrive with some kayaking/canoeing experience. Our trips require you to maneuver between cypress knees, through narrow creek channels, and play around POISON IVY. 
  • Clothing & Shoes: Bring clothing appropriate for that day's weather conditions. Wear shoes that can get wet, and keep in mind that paddles can dribble water onto your lap. Pads for your back are okay to bring. 
  • Outdoor Gear: Binoculars and cameras are welcome! A waterproof bag is recommended since there's no guarantee that you won't flip your kayak or canoe. 
  • Food & Drink: Please eat either before or after your trip. Snacks and something to drink are recommended. We also recommend a cookie for your guide if you want to be shown the way out :) 
  • No: alcoholic beverages, firearms, or pets allowed.
This view is from within a kayak, the front of the plastic boat pointing downstream. Its winter so the leaves are down, all of the trees rising spindle-like up into the sky. Just above the water a low fog works to obscure the distance. Mysterious.
In winter the swamp is an entirely different creature, but still beautiful. Photo: Richard Covey

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