Tucked away among the live oaks of SC’s coast, Edisto Beach State Park is an ecological paradise. Less than an hour after checking into our cabin, we watched a great horned owl stalk a squirrel in the treetops overlooking the salt marsh. Later we saw deer, raccoons and watched in astonishment as a small dolphin breached next to a pier on the estuary near the cabins.
A pristine beach lined with postcard quality palms and littered with bookcase quality shells make Edisto a magnificent gem in the daylight hours. But sometimes only the night reveals the true magic of a place. When the sun goes down in the marsh darkness is king and sight is nearly useless. Those patient enough to allow their other senses to kick in will be rewarded. The marine scent and the moist air are servants of the Atlantic wind. She whips and plucks and zips and tears through the estuary, tossing palm fronds and spanish moss about, composing the eerie soundtrack of the live oak forest. Some nights it’s a flute solo, other nights its an endless crescendo.
We stayed in the state park cabins on a 3 day trip in mid November of 05'. I have camped in the park before during the summer but it is severely overcrowded. Reservations are a must. Edisto is a nesting site for loggerhead turtles so it can be worth the crowds to come during hot weather. Spring and Fall may prove to be a better time for fishermen, kayakers or those seeking peaceful solitude. Whenever you go, Edisto will be a sight you won’t forget.
Cabin info - cabin specifics are listed on the state park site but what they don’t tell you is that they are way off the beaten path, nestled in the live oaks on the banks of the salt marsh. There is a small fishing pier and there are several good spots to launch a kayak. The sandy road is nearly a mile long, is great for bikes or hikes and has access to nature trails.
Camping info - the ocean front campground is almost too good to be true. Grassy patches among the palms and oaks are bordered by the estuary and forested dunes. There are little weathered paths through the trees to the beach. Remember, where ever you decide to stay CALL AHEAD for availability or reservations... This place is popular.
Contact - Edisto Beach State Park for info
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