Four Hole Swamp is a small blackwater tributary to the Edisto River in South Carolina. Most of the swamp does not have a defined channel. Rather, many channels weave and flow around stands of swamp forests. The swamp hosts Francis Beidler Forest, an Audubon Society property which protects the largest remaining stand of virgin bald cypress and tupelo gum trees in the world. Some of the trees are over 1000 years old. 

There are no developed access points to Four Hole Swamp. You can paddle through virgin cypress-tupelo forest by making reservations for a guided canoe tour at Francis Beidler Forest, depending on the season and flow levels. The lower section of Four Hole Swamp can be access by paddling upstream from the Edisto River near Givhans Ferry State Park. 

Bridge crossings provide possible, though difficult and rugged, throw-in access for boaters. No parking facilities are available, and parking on roadsides is discouraged and prohibited at some locations. Anyone attempting to launch at a bridge crossing should remain within the public-road right-of-way and respect private property.

Adjacent Waterway: downstream, Edisto River.

Suggested Trips (1)

Featured trips for this waterway showing difficulty (circles) and current runnability status (squares). View key to icons.