# 8 Duckpond: W. Lake Moultrie — Rated: Easy, 2.5-3 Miles
Click Here for Downloadable Duckpond Trail Guide
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Summary: The area of Lake Moultrie known as the Duckpond is a large enclosed bay that opens to a smaller area of a cypress swamp that contains abundant wildlife, cypress and tupelo trees, and tall grasses. It is home to numerous wading birds, as well as large osprey and bald eagles. About midway between the boat ramp and the Duckpond is a nice sandy beach that can even be used for primitive camping!
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2.5 – 3 miles, roundtrip, varies based on exploration
Time: 1.5 – 2.5 hours
Crowds: Moderate. The area can be popular with anglers.
Boat Type: Kayaks or canoes 10 feet or longer. Paddle boards are not recommended.
Put In / Take Out: Fred L. Day Boat Ramp, Boat Landing Way, Cross, SC 29436. GPS: 33.295429, -80.156345 or 33°17’43.5”N, 80°09’22.8”W
Fees/Permits: None
Current: Negligible, generally south direction
Tidal Influence: None
Precautions: You’ll have protection from some winds once you reach the Duckpond, however, if winds are above 10 MPH expect some waves and whitecaps on the paddle to the area. There are many of tree stumps just inches below the water’s surface. These can flip a paddler if a boat gets wedged on top. Tip: these stumps can usually be seen with polarized sunglasses.
[headline size=”medium” align=”center”]Photo Gallery[/headline]
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- It’s all smiles at Lake Moultrie’s Duckpond.
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- Look around, and up. You’re almost guaranteed to see nesting birds in late Spring/early Summer.
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- There are more than just ducks. Nesting Anhinga chicks in late June.
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- Anhinga on cypress roots on the paddle to Duckpond.
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- Beautiful blooming aquatic plants of Duckpond.
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- Golden Lotus are in full bloom in Duckpond from June through September.
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- Friends gather in the back part of Duckpond.
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- Kayaking through one of the many fields of blooming lilies in Duckpond.
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- Friends gather at the small beach area near the entrance of Duckpond.
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- The Duckpond Map
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- The Duckpond Aerial
