Carolina Bays

Carolina Bays

Carolina Bays have been a source of fascination for visitors to the low country of South Carolina since the time of their discovery. They are fragile and unique ecosystems, wetland habitats that exhibit a variety of vegetative components. Some bays are open-water depressions dotted with pond cypress trees and rimmed by pitcher plants and sundew. Other bays are thick pocosins of shrubby sweetbay, fetterbush and pond pines. They can be one acre or thousands of acres.

Click here for a printable guide and vicinity map.

At a Glance

Restrictions: Camping: Not permitted. During temperate months, be prepared for biting insects and high temperatures. Be adivsed of big-game hunting seasons. Avoid using the trail during excessively wet periods.

General Information

Directions: Directions: Please call one of the district offices listed.

Activities

Viewing Wildlife

Carolina Bays are symmetrical. They are generally oval depressions and the long axis always runs from northwest to southeast. The geological origin of these wetlands remains a mystery. Only about 200 of South Carolina’s original 2,600 natural bays remain in their pristine state. Many have fallen victim to drainage and clearing. About 25 well-defined bays are protected on the Francis Marion National Forest.
Species Amphibians, song birds

Viewing Plants

Carolina Bays are symmetrical. They are generally oval depressions and the long axis always runs from northwest to southeast. The geological origin of these wetlands remains a mystery. Only about 200 of South Carolina’s original 2,600 natural bays remain in their pristine state. Many have fallen victim to drainage and clearing. About 25 well-defined bays are protected on the Francis Marion National Forest.
Species Carnivorous plants like the trumpet pitcher and sundew Pond Pine Pond Cypress