Francis Marion National Forest

Named for Revolutionary War hero Francis Marion—the legendary “Swamp Fox” who eluded British forces through these very lowcountry woods—this 258,673-acre forest north of Charleston offers a distinctly Southern wilderness experience. Established in 1936, the forest spans Charleston and Berkeley counties, encompassing the small communities of Awendaw, Huger, Jamestown, and McClellanville within its boundaries.

The landscape here is defined by subtropical coastal forest ecology: towering longleaf pines, blackwater swamps, and the distinctive Middle Atlantic coastal forests ecoregion. This isn’t mountain terrain—it’s flat, humid, and teeming with wildlife including alligators, wild turkeys, and red-cockaded woodpeckers.

Activities and Access

The forest supports an extensive network of trails for OHV and ATV riding, mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Ten campgrounds serve visitors, including Sedalia Campground, Collins Creek Seasonal Campground, Brick House Campground, Poulous Loop Group Campground, and Cassidy Bridge Primitive Camp for backcountry enthusiasts.

Planning Your Visit

Charleston lies just south of the forest, making this an easy day trip or weekend escape from the city. Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) offer the most comfortable conditions—summers bring intense heat and humidity along with mosquitoes. Winter months remain mild enough for camping and trail use.

Access points are scattered throughout the forest via Highway 17 and numerous forest roads. The Sewee Visitor and Environmental Education Center on Highway 17 provides maps, permits, and current trail conditions.