The upper section of the Wadboo Creek is accessed from the Henry Brown Bridge on the Palmetto Trail. To do so, take US 52 West from Moncks Corner to the US 17 Alternate turnoff toward Jamestown. Follow US 17 Alternate for 4.1 miles, and turn right into the Francis Marion National Forest at the Wadboo Paddle Trail sign. Travel 1 mile until the road ends, where an easily discerned section of the Palmetto Trail will be on your left. The Henry Brown Bridge is a 300-yard portage down the trail. A launching ramp has been added to the right hand side of the bridge for paddle craft. The tides are approximately two and half to three hours behind Charleston Harbor tides.
About the Trail
This upper section of Wadboo Creek can be challenging, particularly during periods of low water when it may become necessary to exit your craft to portage obstructions. Well worth the effort, this lovely cypress swamp is much as it was over two centuries ago when Francis Marion and his Brigade of men frequented the area. Under the stewardship of Santee Cooper, this corridor has been placed in a conservation trust to preserve its pristine beauty. Santee Cooper has placed small yellow diamond-shaped trail markers bearing the likeness of a canoe throughout the trail. About halfway through the trail, they have designated and marked an area for primitive camping. Santee Cooper also periodically clears storm debris from the area, making it a more enjoyable trip. Shortly beyond the camping area, the creek opens a bit, making for easier paddling. You will see remnants of dikes and canals from the rice field era. You will also pass several limestone bluffs along the banks shortly before coming to the takeout at the Rembert C. Dennis Landing on Highway 402. It will be necessary to either stage a vehicle here or to arrange for pickup. For less adventurous paddlers, a very pleasant trip can be had by launching at the Rembert C. Dennis Landing and paddling upstream. The total distance from the Henry Brown Bridge to Rembert C. Dennis Landing is about 5 miles. Typical wildlife sightings on this trail include white tailed deer, turkey, and small alligators.
