Overview
Francis Marion National Forest, Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge and the Santee Delta encompass some of the most spectacular wilderness ecosystems in the world, taking you from inky blackwater swamps into the saltwater estuary.
On this multi-day adventure, paddle these creeks and rivers into the ocean while taking in the iconic Lowcountry landscape. Towering bald cypresses, wildflowers, otters and owls dominate the freshwater portion of the trip. Finally, once we make to the saltwater estuary, we’ll see pods of dolphins, Eastern brown pelicans, herons and egrets among oyster-lined creeks.
This camping expeditions is an incredible opportunity to get to know these wild and federally-protected habitats in an unforgettable way.
Day 1: Echaw Creek to McConnell Landing in Francis Marion National Forest
Day 2: Santee River to Wambaw Creek, with a stop at Hampton Plantation
Day 3: Kayak through Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge to Bulls Island to hike the beach and maritime forest
Why We Love It
Itinerary Highlights:
• Sunrise on the Santee
• Red-cockaded Woodpecker Hike in a Longleaf Pine ecosystem
• Paddling under ancient bald cypresses with giant trunks
• Picnic and hike at Hampton Plantation
• Wildlife viewing opportunities including bottlenose dolphin, American alligator, raptors, otters, turtles, pelicans and more
• Camping in the National Forest with experienced guides
• Blackwater, brackish and saltwater ecosystems
Rates & Details
3 days/2 nights
Booking available for private groups
Multi-day Expedition | Seasonal
Departure Point
Coastal Expeditions on Shem Creek
514 Mill Street
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Things to Know
- Includes gear (e.g. kayaks, tents), transportation (by van and ferry), meals & snacks, guide service
- This trip is designed for adults, but we welcome teenagers 16 and older with a parent
- Through yearly training, our expert guides are certified in ACA kayaking, first aid, CPR and life guarding. As the local guide service for adventure companies like Backroads International and Road Scholars, qualified to lead a fun camping/kayaking expedition in the Lowcountry.
FAQ’s
Activity Level
No prior kayaking experience is needed (we’ll teach you what you need to know), but it will require some endurance. We’ve timed the paddling with the tides to make the experience enjoyable, but we’ll be doing a combination of paddling+hiking between 5-10 miles/day.
What To Pack & Wear
A detailed packing list is provided upon booking.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
A 50% non-refundable deposit due at booking.
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. If we have to cancel because of weather, you will receive a full refund.
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
Due to the heat, this camping & kayaking tour is available any time except for the summer months.
Call (843)884-7684 to learn about rates and availability for your group!
