Cypress Gardens

Looking for a fun and educational outdoor activity for the whole family in the South Carolina lowcountry? For a truly unique experience, head to Cypress Gardens and glide in a flat-bottom boat through the blackwater swamp. This fascinating South Carolina attraction is located on the original rice fields of Dean Hall Plantation, one of the biggest rice plantations in the area dating back to the 18th century. The pristine swamp was made as a reservoir for the rice fields.

The Swamp: A Flooded Forest

The 80 acres of open swamp that make up Cypress Gardens house a wide variety of animal species including hawks, woodpeckers, herons, and songbirds. The still black waters reflect the towering bald cypress and tupelo trees, and creatures such as otters, alligators and turtles also call these marshy waters home. The unique beauty of this natural environment has provided the backdrop for major film productions including The Notebook and The Patriot, as well as the popular Civil War epic North and South.

Wildlife at Every Turn

Outdoor lovers will enjoy the four miles of nature trails at Cypress Gardens, which weave through rice fields and azalea-filled gardens. Colourful butterflies can be seen fluttering through the 2500 square-foot butterfly house, which features several species of butterflies and birds and hundreds of flowers and plants. The 24,000 gallon freshwater aquarium allows visitors to examine the various species of fish, frogs, toads and salamanders that live in the Cypress Gardens swamp but are hidden from view in the dark murky waters. The Reptile Center displays both native and exotic reptiles and amphibians, and the bird aviary features a rotating display of species.

Weddings at Cypress Gardens

Planning a garden wedding in South Carolina? Cypress Gardens offers many scenic venues for wedding ceremonies, receptions and special events, including the Double Gazebos in the Garden of Memories, the Front Lawn and Stage in front of the Cypress swamp and the Wedding Garden Gazebo nestled in one of the picturesque gardens. Surrounded by the blackwater swamp, the bride can arrive by boat to the ceremony.

Visiting the Cypress Gardens

The Cypress Gardens swamp park is located at 3030 Cypress Garden Road in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, approximately half an hour north of Charleston.

Both guided and self-guided boat rides are available. For directions, hours of operation, admission fees and facility rental information call 843-553-0515.

Click here to visit Cypress Gardens official website