Immerse yourself in nature at Widgeon Point Preserve

beaufortsc Beach + Nature, Lowcountry Life, Nature & Wildlife, Outdoors, Things To Do

Widgeon Point Preserve is 162 acres of mixed pine-hardwood forest, maritime forest & salt marsh along the Broad River. Located conveniently off Highway 170, the preserve is co-owned by Beaufort County & the Beaufort County Open Land Trust.

There is a beautiful spacious bird blind overlooking a freshwater pond where Egrets, Herons, Spoonbills, Belted Kingfishers & Wood Storks can be found. Keep your eyes open for Osprey & Bald Eagles searching for fish as well. Sidewalks lead from the paved parking lot to a picnic pavilion, a bird blind, and an event barn.

A 0.7-mile hiking loop travels the perimeter of the adjacent Hummock Island. The loop is a wide, flat nature trail that travels through pines, palms & oak trees. Views of the river can be seen from several different vantage points. The preserve is a great spot for picnicking, hiking & wildlife viewing. There’s even a water fountain that is equipped for dogs.

While hiking, keep a keen eye for white-tailed deer & fox squirrels. Alligators have also been seen in the freshwater ponds, so be careful to not walk along the edges & keep your dog away from the waters edge as well.

Widgeon Point Preserve is located at 43 Okatie Highway, Okatie, SC 29909 and is open daily from dawn to dusk.