# 16 Upper Wadboo Creek — Rated: Moderate, 5 Miles

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Summary: One of the most beautiful paddles in the state, the historic Upper Wadboo Creek is a lovely cypress swamp that looks the same as it did two centuries ago when Francis Marion roamed these parts. You’ll see remnants of 19^th century rice plantation dikes and canals, limestone bluffs and the fauna include white tailed deer, turkey, osprey and ibis.

Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous. Can be challenging during periods of low water when it may be necessary to portage around obstructions.

Distance: 5 miles, one way.

Time: 2 – 3 hours

Crowds: Light

Boat Type: Shorter boats of 10-feet or under can have a big advantage in the Upper Wadboo Creek. Paddle boards are not recommended.

NOTE: Requires staging 2 vehicles or arranging pickup!

Put In: Patts Road, Moncks Corner, SC 29461. Park at end of dirt road and there’s an easily to find path leading to Palmetto Trail on the southeast side of the parking area. The launching ramp/bridge is a 300-yard portage down the trail. GPS for Parking Area: 33.255451, -79.916218 or 33°15’19.6”N, 79°54’58.4”W. GPS for Actual Ramp/Bridge: 33.253937, -79.913003 or 33°15’14.2”N, 79°54’46.8”W

Take Out: Rembert C. Dennis Landing, 1400 SC HWY 402, Moncks Corner, SC 29461. GPS: 33.195955, -79.953198 or 33°11’45.4”N, 79°57’11.5”W

Fees/Permits: None

Current: Negligible, runs southwest

Tidal Influence: Yes, but not as strong as the Lower Wadboo Creek. Approximately 2.75 hours behind Charleston Harbor tide table.

Precautions: Obstructions or water levels that require portaging are the biggest concern. After big storms, downed trees and low hanging branches will have to be negotiated. It’s advisable to wear bright orange during hunting season.

Water Level: This Blueway paddle trail is approximately 2.5 hours behind the Charleston tide. This can affect your effort paddling the creek. Charleston Tide Chart, click HERE. It’s also advised to check the Tailrace Canal (Cooper River) discharge rate. It should be below 5,000 cubic feet per second. Tailrace Canal Discharge Rate, click HERE.

History on the Trail: In August 1782, Brig. Gen. Francis Marion and his militiamen at Wadboo beat back a British attack. Shortly after this small battle until the British left South Carolina for good, Marion made Wadboo his headquarters.

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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.