Blackwater Birdsong Paddle
The Prothonotary Warblers and Swallow-tailed Kites have returned to our blackwater swamps to build nests and raise their young for the summer, and May is an incredible time to see them in Francis Marion National Forest. Come out on a guided kayak tour to see them along the water trails of the Wambaw Wilderness Area.
5-6 hours
$95 Adult/ $75 12 & under
Upcoming Dates: May 9, 10, 29, 30
Offered by private reservation, too—just say when, and we’ll be there with paddles ready.
There’s a short window each spring when the blackwater comes alive with sound of Neo-tropical migratory birds. Paddle beneath a cathedral of cypress and tupelo, where the still, tannin-stained water reflects everything—and the air is filled with birdsong.
This naturalist-guided kayak tour follows quiet, winding creeks into one of the richest habitats in the Lowcountry. Keep an eye on the canopy for flashes of gold—the prothonotary warbler, newly named South Carolina’s migratory state bird—and look to the open sky where swallow-tailed kites carve effortless arcs overhead. Along the way, you’ll learn how these species are tied to this place, and why these protected waters matter.
The pace is unhurried, the setting is wild, and the experience feels fleeting in the best way. This is spring in the blackwater—brief, beautiful, and not to be missed.
About Francis Marion National Forest
A Living Forest, Rooted in Time
Francis Marion National Forest spans over 250,000 acres of biologically rich terrain, from longleaf pine savannas to cypress-tupelo swamps and blackwater creeks. This diverse landscape supports a wide range of wildlife, including swallow-tailed kites, prothonotary warblers, deer, and wild turkeys.
In the Wambaw Wilderness Area, towering cypress rise from flooded forest floors, while wildflowers bloom along old rice field edges and forest trails. Paddling here is a quiet journey through one of the Lowcountry’s last great natural legacies.
Where to Meet
We follow the tide, season, and wildlife—meeting location will be shared after booking.
What’s Included
Sit-in sea kayak, paddle, PFD, and all necessary gear—plus pre-paddle instruction and a professional guide.
You- pack a lunch, water and your sense of adventure.
All Skill Levels Welcome
No experience needed. We’ll provide a full lesson before you hit the water.
Tours Leave On Time
Tours leave on time. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so you’re ready to go.
TRIP ADVISOR REVIEW
★★★★★
To celebrate my birthday, my Mom, sister and I went on an awesome 5-hour kayak trip on the blackwater of the Francis Marion forest with Katie as our excellent and knowledgeable guide. All the trips I have done with Coastal Expeditions have been fantastic and this was no exception. I loved the variety of species we saw, including yellow prothonotary warblers, alligators, spider lilies, nesting herons, wild rice and more. Katie was upbeat, indefatigable, passionate, and full of facts for us to learn about the ecosystem. I also loved having lunch on the water! I highly recommend anything Coastal Expeditions does – for locals and visitors alike.
Activity Level
Participants will canoe or kayak on a guided expedition down a tidal blackwater creek. This is an excellent tour for beginning and experienced paddlers.
What To Pack & Wear
Pack a small backpack with drinking water, sunscreen & insect repellent, bagged lunch and snacks. We’ll take a break on a sandbar or creek bank mid-tour for a picnic.
For paddling, wear shoes that stay on your feet (Tevas-style shoes are best), a hat, and synthetic clothing (it will dry faster than cotton). During cooler weather, dress in layers.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
This tour is non-refundable within 7 days of the scheduled tour.
Weather (thunderstorms or high winds) may impact this excursion. Cancellations usually occur due to lightning, thunder or high winds and we will make sure to reschedule your group if needed. Our general cancellation policies apply unless our experts determine it is potentially unsafe or unwise to venture out. In the event that we decide to cancel due to weather, we will make every effort to call you at least two hours before your departure and help you reschedule or credit/refund the full cost of your trip.
Guide Safety & Training
All Coastal Expeditions guides hold certifications in first aid, CPR and lifeguarding. Throughout the year, they participate in continuing education and training to ensure that they are proficient paddlers, and all lead guides hold sea kayaking certifications from the American Canoe Association of Level 1 or higher.
Our captains hold 100-ton master captain licenses from the USCG. Coastal Expeditions boats are custom-built vessels that receive yearly inspections from the U.S. Coast Guard.
Gratuity
Gratuity is not included in your tour price. Our guides go above and beyond to make sure you have a fantastic time out on the water! Average gratuity ranges from 15%–25% of your tour cost based on your experience. It is not required, but always greatly appreciated.
Tour Availability & Private Tours
Blackwater kayak tours are offered year round.
Private blackwater kayak tours are available. Please call (843)884-7684 for rates and availability.