The historic Town of Port Royal, South Carolina predates Jamestowne, VA by 45 years and St. Augustine, FL by three years. If there's one thing you can expect to find in Port Royal, it's history. From historic buildings and monuments marking significant events in history to a wealth of shops and restaurants, Port Royal is a great place to spend a day or a vacation.
But of all the things found in old Port Royal, the last thing visitors expect to find downtown — is a swamp. However, they soon learn that it's not just any swamp.
A stroll through the Cypress Wetlands found in Port Royal is truly like a cross between Tolkien's Middle Earth and a bona fide jungle.
The lush green landscape is surreal. Plus, you'll see water with the color of a likes you've probably never seen. It's an opaque kelly green, similar to waters flowing in the jungles of South America.
Abundantly stocked with wildlife, the wetlands are a nature lover's dream come true.
Even the creatures that call it home love it here.
Speaking of those creatures, you probably want to heed the warning signs to stay on the paths... there may be a few of these lurking around.
The walkways and paths include densely packed foliage and an occasional fairy tale footbridge, making this wonderland all the more fun to explore.
The next time you're in Port Royal, make it a point to check out the swamp known as the Cypress Wetlands Trail.
The Cypress Wetlands Trail is located at 1700 Paris Ave., Port Royal, SC 29935. A nearby amphitheater is also part of the park. The trail is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Admission is free. Learn more about the wetlands trail on the official website for the Town of Port Royal.
For another unique place to explore in Port Royal, visit the only beach in South Carolina you can drive your car onto.
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