The preserve protects 28 miles of the Waccamaw River, which is the only river that originates from a Carolina Bay. You can paddle all 28 miles, but the most convenient spot to start is Wortham’s Landing. You will pass through bottomland hardwood forests that are the habitat for numerous birds and animals such as otters and black bear. Most paddlers can average 2 mph at low water and 4 mph at high water.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Fees: None, unless you are hunting or fishing.

Camping: Riverside camping is allowed on preserve land. Fires are allowed, but only dead wood can be burned.

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

Mile 0 - Wortham’s Ferry Landing - From US 17 in North Myrtle Beach, drive west on SC 9 for approximately 3.5 miles and turn right onto Horry County S-26-57. Drive 2.3 miles, turn left onto S-26-111, and continue to the landing.

Mile 5.5 ­ Highway 9 Public Landing - From Wortham’s Ferry Landing, drive east on Horry County S-26-111 and turn right onto S-26-57. Drive 2.3 miles and turn right onto SC 9. Drive 2.3 miles and turn right into the public parking area. The landing is at the base of the parking area.

Mile 13.5 ­ Star Bluff Landing - From the Highway 9 Public Landing, drive east to Stephens Crossroads and turn right onto Horry County S­26-57 (joins SC 90). Drive 4.4 miles and turn right onto S-26-638. The landing is 1.5 miles.

Mile 15.5 - Big Savannah Bluff Landing - From Star Bluff Landing, drive east on Horry County S-26-638 and turn right onto SC 90. Drive 4 miles and turn right onto S-26-31. Drive 3.8 miles and turn right onto SC 905. Drive 4.1 miles and turn right onto S-26-952. After 3 miles, S­26-952 becomes dirt. Continue for 4 miles on the dirt to the landing.

Mile 25 - Red Bluff Landing - From Big Savannah Landing, drive west on Horry County S-26-952 and turn left onto SC 905. Drive 4.1 miles and turn right onto S-26-31. The landing is at the bridge.