North Fork Edisto River in South Carolina

Trip Overview

Well my friend and I decided to go paddling after a snowstorm hit the Midlands of South Carolina. We love to get outdoors and explore rivers that we had never seen before in our lives. Plus, the Edisto was a truly black water river.

We got on the Edisto about 12:00 AM, because of the icy roads need to warm up for safety. The Edisto was so beautiful, and it had so many different types of wildlife. We saw about 30 wood ducks that were flying around in the Cyprus Trees. This river was very narrow and swift, and I would recommend that if one does not like snakes and alligators to go in the cooler temperatures of winter.

The only problems were the fallen trees that acted like obstructions in the river. We had to act like gymnastics on the river with our kayaks. These trees could snag one's kayak so be careful. It happened to me on the Edisto, and I went for a swim. Thankfully, I had been prepared by bring my full body wetsuit. It saved me big time stabilizing my body temperature. Being prepared for anything on a cold river is very important.

We got back to the bridge landing near Orangeburg, and we were cold and worn out. The river was longer that we had expected it to be, and this meandering river will drain one's energy with all the curves and cutbacks on the river. However, once we got back to the landing we were pumped up. It was great to finish a great trip like this on the Edisto. I would recommend this river to anyone with caution of wildlife and fallen trees. Safe Paddling!

Accommodations:

There are places to stay the night in Orangburg.

Fees:

The Put-ins/take-outs are free of charge. Camping is free to the public on the Edisto. Be aware of the "No Trespassing signs."

Directions:

From I-26 take exit 145 towards Orangeburg. Follow Hwy 601 South until it intersects Hwy 176. Follow this road for a couple of miles.

There are landing signs along this road. The put-in will be closer towards North, SC. The Take-out is near Orangeburg, SC.

Resources:

Use the North Fork Edisto River Topographic Map to follow the path of this river.