Beidler Forest Audubon Sanctuary Four Holes Swamp Access Road
Virgin swamp forest service access.
The service road into Four Holes Swamp cuts through 1,800 acres of virgin bald cypress and tupelo forest that’s been untouched since before European settlement. This narrow dirt track follows old logging tramways used in the early 1900s, winding past centuries-old cypress trees draped in Spanish moss. The road dead-ends at the famous boardwalk where prothonotary warblers nest in hollow cypress trunks and otters play in the dark tannin-stained water.
Easy to moderate depending on recent rains — stock clearance handles it fine when dry, but standing water and soft spots demand attention after storms. Best visited April through October for wildlife activity and decent road conditions. No camping allowed, but the 1.75-mile boardwalk loop makes this worth the drive. Bring bug spray and expect complete cell service loss once you leave the visitor center. Park entry fee required.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 3.5 mi / 5.6 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 85 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Harleyville, SC |
| Land manager | National Audubon Society |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
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