Story Originally posted on Onlyinyourstate.com on August 8th, 2022 by Jackie Ann
Finding an activity the entire family will enjoy can be tricky. Luckily for us, South Carolina is home to countless parks, beaches, and natural areas that always promises a good time. These nature centers in South Carolina are great options for a family day trip, and who knows! You might just inspire the next generation of naturalists and environmentalists.
1. Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
You’ll find the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge conveniently located between Hilton Head and Bluffton, South Carolina.
Pinckney Island, South Carolina 29910, USA
The 4,053-acre refuge offers several trails which will give you a front-row seat to the beautiful salt marsh, freshwater ponds, and tidal creeks.
Bird lovers will especially enjoy a visit to Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge plays an important role along the Atlantic Flyway and attracts thousands of migratory birds every year. Of course, other wildlife call the refuge home, too, and you might even catch a glimpse of an alligator or a white-tailed deer on your adventure.
2. Conestee Nature Preserve
The Conestee Nature Preserve Is a 400-acre preserve nestles along the Reedy River in Conestee, South Carolina.
Conestee Nature Preserve, 840 Mauldin Rd, Greenville, SC 29607, USA
There are 13 miles of trails to explore in this scenic Greenville County preserve. These trails are flat and mostly paved, so go ahead and bring the stroller.
Conestee is another bird haven, home to over 200 migratory and native birds--more than any other place in Greenville County! If you watch the water long enough, you're bound to see a blue heron grab a crawfish or two.
3. Audubon's Silver Bluff Center and Sanctuary
Audubon's Silver Bluff Center and Sanctuary is a massive, 3,400-acre natural paradise overlooking the Savannah River that makes for an epic outdoor adventure.
Audubon's Silver Bluff Center and Sanctuary, 4542 Silver Bluff Rd, Jackson, SC 29831, USA
With 50 acres of lakes and ponds, 20 miles of horse trails, and more than five miles of hiking trails, you could easily spend the entire day here and never be bored.
The sanctuary is home to a few bald eagle nests, so keep your eyes to the skies for this majestic bird. Storks are a bit of a celebrity around here, and if you visit between July and September, you may spot them enjoying the sanctuary, too.
Have you ever visited any one of these nature centers? Let us know in the comments below.
