Lowcountry Land Trust protects gateway to McClellanville
October 9, 2025
Scenic entrance, iconic live oaks, and new public green space protected for future generations
Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit committed to preserving Lowcountry landscapes and waterways for current and future generations, is proud to announce the permanent protection of a key landmark property at the gateway to McClellanville. In partnership with the Town of McClellanville, Lowcountry Land Trust has safeguarded 745 feet along N Highway 17 and 415 feet along North Pinckney Street, the scenic entrance to town, transforming it into a public green space that honors McClellanville’s rural character and natural beauty.
The property features two grand live oaks at the North Pinckney Street/Hwy 17 entrance—one stretching 59 inches in diameter, the other an impressive 78 inches—that not only stand as lasting symbols of McClellanville’s heritage but also define the scenic gateway into town. Along with protecting these natural giants, the project safeguards nearly 1,200 feet of road frontage, ensuring that the scenic views welcoming residents and visitors will remain untouched for generations.
“Lowcountry Land Trust is honored to continue our work with the Town of McClellanville and help protect a valuable piece of land that not only preserves the scenic and rural character of the community but also expands the town’s growing network of public green spaces,” said Sam Seawell, Lowcountry Land Trust’s community lands director. “The protection of the McClellanville gateway property is a meaningful step in preserving the unique character of the town.”
For McClellanville and its residents, this project is more than a land deal; it’s a continuation of a shared story that protects scenic beauty, strengthens community identity, and secures a lasting legacy of open space. Guided by the Town’s Comprehensive Plan, which prioritizes safeguarding its gateway as a public green space, this vision was made possible through the support of the Charleston County Greenbelt Program and the South Carolina Conservation Bank.
“McClellanville is an iconic fishing community defined by centuries old live oaks and shrimp boats,” commented Raleigh West, director, South Carolina Conservation Bank. “We commend the town and Lowcountry Land Trust for working proactively to protect this scenic entrance to their community.”
In a unique arrangement, the property will transfer directly from Lowcountry Land Trust to the Town of McClellanville, which will immediately place a conservation easement on the land, ensuring its permanent protection. This project builds on a series of recent conservation successes in McClellanville, including projects like the Deerhead Oak (2023), Silver Hill Plantation (2023), and the Farm at McClellanville (2025).
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ABOUT LOWCOUNTRY LAND TRUST
Lowcountry Land Trust—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—permanently protects land throughout coastal South Carolina that is foundational to the area’s ecosystem and residents’ quality of life. Having protected over 163,000 acres since 1986, Lowcountry Land Trust is one of the most impactful land trusts in the country. Its work includes the stewardship of privately owned land and iconic public places, such as the future Angel Oak Preserve—a 44-acre passive park and living museum in partnership with the City of Charleston. More information about Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org.
