Paddle calm river and creek waters and spot wildlife in a shaded cypress swamp setting
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2 Hours
Paddle into a prehistoric cypress forest on the Waccamaw River and its narrow creeks. Enjoy calm water, shade in summer, and a chance to spot birds and turtles along the banks.
Please arrive 20–25 minutes before your departure time. Suitable for beginner to advanced paddlers, and no prior kayak experience is required.
There is no charge for cancellation, even on the day of your tour, with an hour’s notice prior to launching. Refunds are only available if the booking is cancelled more than 24 hours ahead of time. The operator may cancel tours due to bad weather or other circumstances with no charge. Special cancellation policies apply to private groups.
Bring sunglasses with a strap, sunscreen, bug repellent, and plenty of liquids to drink (there is room for a soft-sided or small 6-pack type cooler in your kayak). You may also bring a waterproof or disposable camera in a zip lock bag, and any personal emergency medications you may require.
Wear a brimmed hat/cap/visor, footwear you don’t mind getting wet (sneakers, sandals, surf slippers), and clothing you don’t mind getting wet or muddy. For cool mornings, dress in layers; for cool and windy weather, gloves and a windbreaker are recommended. In warmer months, you can come ready to swim (optional).
It’s recommended to leave valuables you don’t want to risk dropping into the water locked in your car or at home.
The Cypress Swamp Tour meets at the end of West Cox Ferry Rd, in Conway, SC. There are three driveways on the left at the end of the road. Watch for the large brown Wildlife Refuge sign. The parking lot is at the end of the middle driveway. Walk past the yellow gate and towards the picnic shelter. Closest address is 1496 West Cox Ferry Road.
Black River Outdoors consistently delivers excellent guided kayak experiences thanks to standout guides like Mike, Spencer, Matt, and Steve. Reviewers rave about how knowledgeable and enthusiastic the guides are, whether you're paddling through salt marshes spotting wildlife, exploring the historic Waccamaw River, or fishing for redfish and flounder. The guides excel at making everyone feel comfortable and safe, even helping struggling paddlers and navigating sudden weather changes. The naturalist partnerships add extra educational depth to the tours, and families particularly appreciate how patient the guides are with beginners and kids. The tours themselves offer diverse options from 2-hour salt marsh paddles to 4-hour river adventures with island stops. Wildlife sightings are frequent - birds, turtles, and various marine life keep things interesting. The kayaking is generally easy-paced with plenty of stops, making it accessible for first-timers. One reviewer did encounter a serious booking mix-up where their confirmed reservation wasn't on the schedule, and equipment occasionally shows wear, though it remains functional. Overall though, the combination of skilled guides, beautiful scenery, and well-organized tours makes this a popular choice for both visitors and repeat customers.
It was great to have been guided by Spencer yesterday on the Waccamaw River Tour. We had a nice group, favorable weather and calm waters. Hoping to get out with Black River a few more times this season.
Ed Einhaus
April 3, 2026
It was great to have been guided by Spencer yesterday on the Waccamaw River Tour. We had a nice group, favorable weather and calm waters. Hoping to get out with Black River a few more times this season.
Ed Einhaus
April 3, 2026