Echaw Creek Canoe Trail

This small blackwater creek winds through magnificent oak-hickory stands as well as cypresstupelo swamps. Opportunities for viewing bobcats, owls, wild turkeys, and more occur at every bend. The abundance of well-drained mature forests on the bank invites exploration on foot. The right bank when traveling downstream is privately owned. Please do not trespass.

This freshwater creek is tidal with changes in tide occurring about 2.5 hours later than times posted for Charleston Harbor. Look for evidence of abandoned rice culture. Downed trees and occasional logjams can make passage challenging.

A good take out point is McConnell’s Boat Landing on the Santee River.

Hampton Plantation State Park, South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism. Phone: 843-546-936

Battery Warren Interpretive Trail and Guilliard Lake Recreation Area Francis Marion National Forest.

Safety: Expect biting insects and high temperatures, during warmer months. Watch for venomous snakes (water moccasins) and sweeps (trees overhanging the river). Traversing log jams can be treacherous.

Camping: Pack in, Pack out. Return campsite to natural conditions. Gather dead and down wood for campfires only. If you build a campfire, use caution, especially in dry conditions.

From Charleston, take Hwy. 17 north to McClellanville. Turn left at blinking yellow caution light onto Hwy. 45 (French Santee Road). Drive 12 miles, turn right onto Price Landing Road (FS Road 151). Go 2.5 miles and turn right on Pitch Landing Road (FS 192). Go .75 miles to landing.