From the Highway 303 Bridge, the Ashepoo River is narrow for approximately 0.6 mile with a canopy of trees that provide shade and a habitat for wildlife. This area is especially beautiful in the fall when the trees are in color. As the river widens you will start to see old rice fields and plantations such as historic Bonnie Doone, now owned by the Charleston Baptist Association. By paddling up a canal to the left, you can see the house and grounds of Bonnie Doone. Nesting Osprey and Eagles may be seen throughout the area.

This trip can be done at any tide, but it’s recommended that you make it on the falling tide, which is about 5 hours behind Charleston Harbor. Insect repellent is recommended during the warm months.

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Access Points (mileage and GPS coordinates are approximate and for reference only):

Mile 0 - Highway 303 Bridge - From Walterboro drive south on SC Highway 303. The bridge is 1.9 miles beyond Ritter Crossroad. Canoe put-in at the bridge. Parking is limited to the roadside.

Mile 6 - Joe’s Fish Camp - From the SC Highway 303 Bridge, drive south on SC Highway 303 to Green Pond and turn left onto Wood Road (S-15-14). Turn left again at US Highway 17 and drive 2.0 miles to the Ashepoo River.

Note: There is a $10 (cash only) take out fee—no credit cards are accepted—you must have exact change.