Paddle tranquil blackwater creeks on a guided kayak tour with Nature Adventures Outfitters near McClellanville, SC. Spot alligators and rare birds while learning about the unique Lowcountry ecosystem.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic paddling endurance recommended.
Wildlife
History
Wambaw Creek and the surrounding swamplands have long served as waterways for Native American communities and early settlers, providing critical resources.
Conservation
Local guides emphasize low-impact paddling practices to preserve the delicate swamp ecosystem and support ongoing habitat protection efforts.
Nature Adventures Outfitters
Paddle tranquil blackwater creeks on a guided kayak tour with Nature Adventures Outfitters near McClellanville, SC. Spot alligators and rare birds while learning about the unique Lowcountry ecosystem.
Nature Adventures Outfitters is a guided outdoor outfitter based in McClellanville, South Carolina. The company organizes kayak tours and guided hikes across nearby coastal and forested areas, including the Wambaw Creek Wilderness Area, Blackwater Creek in the Francis Marion National Forest, Wadboo Creek, Huger Creek on the Cooper River, Cat Island in the Wando River, and routes through the Cape Romain Wildlife Refuge. Trips range from two-hour paddles to extended 4.5-hour island excursions, plus sunset kayak experiences with small groups, complimentary photos, and narrated information about the local ecosystem.
Guided hikes visit sections of the Palmetto Trail such as the Awendaw Passage, Ion Swamp Trail originating at the Sewee Visitor Center, and scenic longleaf pine and marsh habitats. Several tours highlight regional history and archaeology, including views of former plantations, rice canals, and Sewee Indian ruins, while wildlife-focused trips emphasize birding, dolphin sightings, and opportunities to find fossils such as shark teeth. Departure and meeting locations center on McClellanville, with access to Jeremy Creek and local launch points adjacent to protected marshes.
The operation emphasizes safe, interpretive outdoor experiences across tidal creeks, blackwater streams, limestone cliffs, and maritime forests. Nature Adventures Outfitters provides trip options that connect visitors to Lowcountry landscapes, regional history, and coastal wildlife while operating from the McClellanville area. Popular departures include kayak routes past McClellanville shrimp boats, coastal homes, and marsh channels where visitors commonly see dolphins, coastal birds, and other estuarine species, often finishing at scenic sunset viewpoints such as Jeremy Creek and family outings.
Location
McClellanville, SC
Coastal Lowcountry base
Trip Durations
2–4.5 hours
Short paddles to island excursions
Tours Offered
9 trips
Kayaks and guided hikes
Highlights
Wildlife & History
Alligators, birds, fossils, plantations
Book Wambaw Creek paddles, sunset kayak tours, Cat Island fossil hunts, or Palmetto Trail hikes and secure a spot for the next departure.
Arrive Early to Avoid the Heat
Plan to arrive before your tour starts to get organized comfortably, especially in warmer months.
Wear Water-Resistant Clothing
Expect occasional splashes and humidity—quick-dry gear keeps you comfortable on the paddle.
Bring a Dry Bag for Electronics
Protect your phone, camera, and wallet in a waterproof bag for peace of mind on the water.
Watch for Wildlife, Keep Distance
Maintain respectful distance from alligators and nesting birds to ensure their safety and yours.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps belongings safe and dry during the paddle.
Quick-Dry Clothing
Helps manage sweat and splash water to keep you comfortable.
summer
Insect Repellent
Protect yourself against mosquitoes and biting insects common in swamp areas.
spring|summer|fall
Sun Protection (Hat & Sunscreen)
Shield your skin from sun exposure on open water stretches.
spring|summer|fall