Audubon’s Francis Beidler Forest Center & Sanctuary

Francis Beidler Forest is one of two forests left in South Carolina that have never been significantly altered in human history. The forest is the largest, uncut, original-growth, cypress-tupelo swamp in the world. Located within the 45,000-acre Four Holes Swamp watershed, the forest is approximately 18,000 acres with more than 1,800 acres of ancient trees, some dating back more than 1,000 years. There is a 10-foot diameter Bald Cypress tree and a 5-foot diameter Tupelo Gum Tree.

The forest is best experienced by walking the 1.75-mile, ADA-compliant boardwalk, which is open to the public. Staff also offer seasonal guided programs, including kayak trips through the old-growth forest. The Audubon sanctuary and environmental education center located at the site are preserving the forest and fostering community involvement in conservation.