# 21 Durham Creek / Back River — Rated: Moderate, 7.8 Miles
Click Here for Downloadable Durham Creek / Back River Trail Guide
Click Here for COMPLETE Downloadable Berkeley Blueways Guidebook
Summary: The Back River is accessed from Durham Creek near Cypress Gardens. You’ll paddle beside tall grasses, and forestation that is a mix of pine, cypress, sweet gum, hardwoods, red cedar and river birch. In warmer months, the banks are lined with flowering water lilies. The waterway is home to wood ducks, herons, anhingas, and osprey. On the upper creek, you may even spot a white tailed deer.
Difficulty: Moderate, only due to distance
Distance: 7.8 miles, round-trip
Time: 3 – 4 hours
Crowds: Light. You’re almost guaranteed to see boaters/anglers in Durham Creek, but the Back River is not frequented.
Boat Type: Kayaks or canoes 10 feet or longer. Paddle boards are not recommended.
Put In / Take Out: Durham Creek Landing (note: some mapping/GPS applications call this “Cypress Gardens Boat Ramp”), 3000 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner, SC 29461. GPS: 33.057584, -79.957782 or 33°03’27.3”N, 79°57’28.0”W
Fees/Permits: None
Current: Negligible, generally south direction
Tidal Influence: Yes, tide is approximately 1.5 hours behind Charleston Harbor tide table
Precautions: Motorized boats go up and down Durham Creek. Most boaters will slow down and yield to paddlers, but keep a watchful eye.
Water Level: This Blueway paddle trail is approximately 2 hours behind the Charleston tide. This can affect your effort paddling the creek. Charleston Tide Chart, click HERE.
History on the Trail: Information coming soon – May 2021
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SHOP LOCAL – Support Berkeley County Business
Food Nearby: Information coming soon – May 2021.
Guide Service and Kayak Rentals: Contact Blueway Adventures, 843-697-2812. www.bluewayadventures.com. Berkeley County’s only kayak guide service.
- Having fun on the Back River. NOTE: Wearing a PFD (life jacket) is always recommended.
- Beautiful Spider Lily in early May in the tall grasses of the Back River.
- You’ll paddle narrow waters with mixed vegetation on the upper Back River.
- Louisiana (also known as “Little Blue”) Heron on the Back River.
- Paddling the upper waters of the Back River. NOTE: Wearing a PFD (life jacket) is always recommended.
- Durham Creek Map
- Durham Creek Aerial
Durham Creek
Durham Creek Aerial
Berkeley County Blueways Map
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