Fall into Nature: What’s happening at the Black River Cypress Preserve this season

August 10, 2026

As the autumn air sets in, the Black River Cypress Preserve in Andrews, SC, is reopening its gates this September to welcome individuals, school groups, and the community back into the heart of South Carolina’s Coastal Plain. Dedicated to inspiring and educating visitors about blackwater swamps and native pinelands, the Preserve has lined up a diverse array of outdoor activities and guided tours for the upcoming fall season.

Here is a look at what’s coming up on the calendar:

September Events 

  • Sept. 12 – Bird Watching @ Peninsula: Join birding guide Judith for a morning of observing resident and migratory birds along the scenic Peninsula trail.

  • Sept. 26 – Fall Flowers and Butterflies @ Swampside: Explore the seasonal blooms and native pollinators with guides Maureen and Mathilde.

  • Sept. 26 – Full Moon Hike @ Swampside: Experience the preserve after dark and take in the tranquility of the swamp under the light of the full moon.

October Events

  • Oct. 10 – Bird Watching @ Swampside: A second opportunity to go birdwatching with Judith, exploring a different eco-system at the Swampside area.

  • Oct. 11 – Butterfly and Moth Survey @ Swampside: Take a walk with Naturalist Tom Austin to learn about and survey local lepidoptera species.

  • Oct. 17 – Fall Botany @ Peninsula: Rejoin Maureen and Mathilde to dive into native plant identification and botany along the Peninsula.

  • Oct. 24 – Full Moon Hike @ Swampside: Another chance to trek through the Swampside trails under October’s full moon.

November Events

  • Nov. 7 – Biking the Trails @ Swampside: Bring your bike and explore the preserve’s extensive trail system on two wheels.

Spaces for guided walks and hikes are limited, so advance registration is required. Beyond scheduled events, visitors are encouraged to enjoy self-guided activities including hiking, biking, picnicking, plant identification, and touring the native plant garden.

Black River Cypress Preserve is  located at 16368 County Line Road in Andrews, SC 29510. For more information or to register visit: www.cypresspreserve.org/events.