A Summerville Summer: Outdoors & Ecotourism

There’s a reason our town is called Summerville. Aside from its rich history and unwavering Southern hospitality, Summerville is also a mecca of outdoor activities.  With plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors, families and individuals alike will be delighted to participate in ecotourism, self-guided tours and other engaging activities this summer. 

Parks in Summerville

Summerville has many outdoor attractions waiting for you to discover this season, including many scenic parks and playgrounds. Azalea Park is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. The park spans 12 acres in the heart of town, with well-maintained paths leading past several ponds, fountains, and various beautiful native plants, most notably the azalea. While in Azalea Park, explore the permanent sculptures installed by Sculpture in the South. A hands-on guide is available to download online that includes a map and description of each sculpture.

The Sawmill Branch Trail, running parallel to the Sawmill Branch Canal, boasts a ten-foot-wide paved path reaching nearly seven miles in length. Throughout its expanse, the trail allows users to experience Summerville's wildlife, such as whitetail deer, egrets, alligators, and more. While the path travels along a wooded area, it is mostly in the sun, so be sure to pack some water and sunscreen for your adventure.

Rosebrock Park is a great destination for individuals interested in really engrossing themselves in nature. With 1.5 miles of trails running through over 70 acres of protected forest, including a quarter of a mile along the Ashley River, Rosebrock Park showcases much of the natural beauty Summerville is known for. Ecotourists will love the interpretive panels that continue along the trail, offering visitors a chance to learn more about the park's history, conservation efforts, science, and more. Additional information is available on each panel via a QR code.

Magnificent Gardens



Magnolia Plantation is another great place for nature lovers to enjoy Summerville's innate beauty. This property is open 365 days a year and is home to the oldest public garden in American history. Some trees and plants seen here have been growing on the property since the 1840s. Built in the 17th century, the estate has a breathtaking view of the Ashley River, which can be enjoyed while strolling through what is widely known to be the most popular garden in the state of South Carolina. After enjoying the gardens, Magnolia Plantation guests can participate in the guided tours or climb aboard the nature train. While riding, you will travel around the plantation's 450 acres of diverse landscapes, including wetlands, forests, swamps, and marshes. On this excursion, you will have the chance to see many animals, such as alligators, turtles, and several species of birds. Your tour guide will teach you about the native plants you come across on the grounds and the history of rice cultivation at Magnolia Plantation. 

With meticulously maintained gardens and captivating architecture, Middleton Place is another must-visit destination for residents and ecotourists alike. Guided garden tours are offered throughout the day and will discuss the land, plants, and history of the gardens. Guided tours are also available to those interested in learning more about the historic livestock breeds at Middleton Place. After the tour, linger in the stable yards to observe the heritage breeds still housed there. Also in the stable area are blacksmith, pottery, and textile demonstrations, showcasing the skills used by the enslaved men and women who are at the core of Middleton Place's history.

Historical Architecture

An additional point of interest for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate historical architecture is Dorchester County Historical Society's Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site. Step back into history as you explore a colonial village established in 1697 along the banks of the Ashley River. The wonderfully preserved remains of structures from Colonial Dorchester include:

• The bell tower of St. George's Anglican Church.
• Remnants of the cemetery from St. George's parish.
• A fort made of oyster shell concrete, called tabby.
  
  

The historic site also features an interpretive trail with kiosks and exhibits that describe the history of the village that once stood there. This location is also a stop on Summerville's Sweet Tea Trail, so don't forget to stamp your Trail Guide while visiting!

Birding and Nature Walks

The perfect place for photographers and bird watchers alike, Francis Beidler Forest Audubon Center & Sanctuary is one of only two forests left in the state that have never been logged. Francis Beidler Forest offers two trails for the public to use. Open only during business hours, the boardwalk trail gives visitors an in-depth look into the old-growth swamp comprised of cypress tupelo trees. It is the home of many species of birds and other animals, such as alligators, river otters, and dozens of others.
Additionally, the Grassland-Woodland Trail takes visitors down a dirt path through Longleaf Pine, woodland, and grassland habitats. This ecosystem supports a wide range of species that birdwatchers and photographers will treasure observing, such as Painted Buntings, Blue Grosbeaks, Loggerhead Shrikes, Purple Martins, and an abundance of sparrows. The Francis Beidler Forest offers several types of guided tours to allow further engagement in the diverse ecosystem. Exciting options for ecotourists include guided night exploration, kayak and canoe tours, guided bird tours, and private tours.



More to do!

For a memorable summer chock full of outdoor fun, dive into all that Summerville offers. From an exciting float down the Edisto River to an afternoon learning about the significance of the Old Dorchester State Historic Site, there is something for everyone here.

Summerville's events and festivals happen year 'round, so check out the local event calendar at visitsummerville.com/local-events.