We offer blackwater tours throughout the month in Francis Marion National Forest.  To join a scheduled tour, click here.

If you’d like experience this as a private outing, please call to book.  We can easily arrange for a guide for your group!

The Wambaw Creek Kayak Tour is a Coastal Expeditions guide favorite- and for good reason.  Some of the oldest bald cypresses line the edges of the creek and wildlife like otters, turkeys and white-tail deer are abundant. A tributary of the Santee River, Wambaw Creek is nestled into the Francis Marion National Forest and is the perfect trip for families or small groups.

Bald Cypress and Tupelo shade this creek, creating an intimate setting for sightings of otter, deer, turkeys and myriad of birds like kingfishers, herons and hawks.

The history within this area of the Lowcountry was dominated by rice culture, and our guides will take you back in time as they share stories about the plantation life that shaped the way our ancestors once lived.

Named one of the 14 best places to canoe or kayak on national forests by the National Forest Federation, this is a “don’t miss” excursion.

INCLUDES
Gear (sea kayak, PFD, paddle, etc.), pre-paddle prep/instruction, guide, and tax.

TOUR DURATION
Up to 5 Hours (includes instruction, prep, creekside picnic and on-water time)

ACTIVITY LEVEL
Participants will kayak on a guided expedition down a tidal blackwater creek.  This is an excellent tour for beginning and experienced paddlers.

WHAT TO WEAR
Shoes that will stay on your feet (Tevas-style shoes are best), a hat, and synthetic clothing (it will dry faster than cotton).  During cooler weather, dress in layers.

WHAT TO BRING
Drinking water, sunscreen; Pack a lunch and snacks for our break on a creek bank.

WEATHER
Weather (thunderstorms or high winds) may impact this excursion. Cancellations usually occur due to lightning, thunder or high winds and we will make sure to reschedule your group if needed. Our general cancellation policies apply unless our experts determine it is potentially unsafe or unwise to venture out. In the event that we decide to cancel due to weather, we will make every effort to call you at least two hours before your departure and help you reschedule or credit/refund the full cost of your trip.

GRATUITY
Gratuity is not included in your tour price. Our guides go above and beyond to make sure you have a fantastic time out on the water! Average gratuity ranges from 15%–25% of your tour cost based on your experience. It is not required, but always greatly appreciated!

NEED TO CANCEL?
You’ll need to call 48-hours prior to the tour or you will not be eligible for a refund for the tour.

I have wanted to do one of these trips for a long time and decided with the beautiful fall weather to give it a go! This is a black water river surrounded by Cypress and Tupalo trees located in the Francis Marion Forest. We meet our guides Saturday morning and headed out with 12 of us. Geoff and Olivia, our guides, were so knowledgable not only of kayaking but of the history of this area, the flora and fauna and the wildlife that lives there. We paddled to an old rice plantation where we stopped for lunch. It was a fun, learning experience that my son and I will remember for a long time. I would highly recommend Coastal Expeditions for any adventure that peaks your interest. They set the bar high and do not disappoint!

Please call 843.884.7684 to book this tour.