Beidler Forest

336 Sanctuary Rd #3324, Harleyville, SC 29448

Purchase tickets

Grab your binoculars and spend the day surrounded by 1,000-year-old trees at South Carolina’s most sought after bird watching sanctuary, Beidler Forest. You’ll enjoy a range of wildlife as you walk through one of the largest virgin cypress-tupelo swamp forests in the world! Beidler Forest sits on 16,000 acres of untouched ecosystem. If you’re looking to get a bit more active, kayak or hike through the sanctuary while you take in Dorchester’s natural beauty. This is truly a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss!

B.I.R.D.S. Sculpture Trail

Located in Downtown Summerville

Swing by downtown Summerville to scout out twenty-two life-sized bird sculptures! These sculptures are placed across various balconies, windowsills, shop signs, and rooftops all across the downtown area. The poetic series of clues will help you navigate the art throughout the downtown and help you learn about these native birds along the way. The best part? This is a fun scavenger hunt the entire family can participate in that teaches the importance of conserving and restoring natural ecosystems to protect our birds.

Ashley River Park

200 Renken RD, Summerville, SC 29485

Discover the beauty of birdwatching at Ashley River Park, where the scenic Ashley River provides a stunning backdrop for spotting a variety of bird species. From graceful shorebirds to melodious songbirds and majestic birds of prey, this park offers a rich birding experience. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk along the river or simply relaxing by the water, Ashley River Park is a perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature. Bring your camera and binoculars to capture the incredible sights that await you!

Givhans Ferry State Park

746 Givhans Ferry RD, Ridgeville, SC 29427

Explore Givhans Ferry State Park, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Nestled within 988 acres of pristine wilderness, this park is home to a diverse array of bird species. The 1.5-mile nature trail winds through lush forests and along the river, offering ample opportunities to spot both common and rare birds. Whether you’re an experienced birder or just starting out, Givhans Ferry State Park provides a tranquil setting to connect with
nature and enjoy the beauty of birdwatching.

Educational Programs

Dorchester County is committed to fostering a love of nature and birdwatching through a variety of educational programs. These programs are designed for all ages and skill levels, offering birding walks, workshops, and hands-on activities that highlight the importance of bird conservation. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced birder seeking to deepen your knowledge, our programs provide valuable insights into the local avian population and the ecosystems they inhabit. Join us to discover more about the incredible birds that call Dorchester County home!