Boardwalk through ancient bald cypress swamp at Francis Beidler Forest

Francis Beidler Forest

South Carolina · Southeast

Habitat
WetlandForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-June

Entrance Fee

$12 adults; $6 children

Hours

Tuesday – Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

About This Location

Francis Beidler Forest protects the largest remaining virgin stand of bald cypress and tupelo gum swamp in the world within Four Holes Swamp. The elevated boardwalk provides easy access to old-growth swamp habitat alive with Prothonotary Warblers and other swamp specialists.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Ring-necked Duck

Aythya collaris

7/16/2026601 Halls Rd, Pineville US-SC (33.3713,-80.0927)1 observed

Gray Catbird

Dumetella carolinensis

7/12/2026Camp Hall (Avian Commons Recreation Area)4 observed

Red-cockaded Woodpecker

Leuconotopicus borealis

7/10/2026Causeway to front gate - Brosnan Forest Rd, (private) - Dorchester US-SC2 observed

Bachman's Sparrow

Peucaea aestivalis

7/9/2026Driving Range - Brosnan Forest (private) - 29437, Dorchester US-SC3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

White Ibis

17/18/2026

Black Vulture

17/18/2026

Mississippi Kite

27/18/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/18/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

17/18/2026

White-eyed Vireo

17/18/2026

Carolina Chickadee

57/18/2026

Tufted Titmouse

27/18/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

17/18/2026

Carolina Wren

27/18/2026

Black-and-white Warbler

17/18/2026

Prothonotary Warbler

17/18/2026

Common Yellowthroat

37/18/2026

Summer Tanager

17/18/2026

Northern Cardinal

27/18/2026

Rock Pigeon

167/10/2026

Blue Jay

27/10/2026

Canada Goose

187/10/2026

Mourning Dove

37/10/2026

Killdeer

17/10/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk the boardwalk at dawn for Prothonotary Warbler songs

  2. 2

    Night walks are offered seasonally for owls and other nocturnal wildlife

  3. 3

    Visit during spring migration (April-May) for the greatest species diversity

  4. 4

    Arrive at dawn for peak bird activity, especially during migration seasons

  5. 5

    Bring waterproof boots and scan the marsh edges for rails, herons, and bitterns

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Francis Beidler Forest for birding?
The best months to visit Francis Beidler Forest for birding are April-June. The best seasons are Spring and Summer.
What birds can I see at Francis Beidler Forest?
Notable species at Francis Beidler Forest include Prothonotary Warbler, Barred Owl, Yellow-throated Warbler, Mississippi Kite, Acadian Flycatcher, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Cooper's Hawk, Carolina Chickadee. The area supports wetland, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Francis Beidler Forest?
Birding at Francis Beidler Forest is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
Is there an entrance fee at Francis Beidler Forest?
The entrance fee at Francis Beidler Forest is $12 adults; $6 children. Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
What amenities are available at Francis Beidler Forest?
Francis Beidler Forest offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Visitor Center, Boardwalk.