The humongous (over 9000 acres) Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve (803/734-3886, www.dnr.sc.gov, daily dawn–dusk, free) is one of the more impressive phenomena in the Palmetto State from a naturalist’s viewpoint, all the more special because of its location a short drive from heavily-developed Myrtle Beach.

Managed by the state, it contains an amazing 23—yes, 23—Carolina Bays, by far the largest concentration in South Carolina. (The nearby Highway 31 is named the Carolina Bays Parkway in a nod to its neighbors.)

As if that weren’t enough, it boasts other unique aspects as well. The largest concentration of Venus flytraps in the state is here, and the preserve is also said to be the only place in eastern South Carolina where black bears still live in the wild. (Clemson University is conducting a study on their habits, and so far, has concluded that they go back and forth between here and North Carolina.)

The bird-watching is extra-special here too, with a goodly number of bald eagles and endangered red-cockaded woodpeckers in the area. Several miles of trails take you through a variety of habitats.

When you’re here, keep in mind that despite its great natural beauty it is not pristine. As with most of Horry County, heavy logging and turpentine operations took place throughout the preserve’s acreage during the 1800s and early 1900s. As with most all South Carolina heritage preserves, hunting does take place here and there are no facilities.

Getting to Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve

To get to Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve from Myrtle Beach, take U.S. 501 north to Highway 90 and head east. After about seven miles turn east on the unpaved International Road across from the Wild Horse subdivision. After about a mile and a half on International Road, veer left onto Old Kingston Road. The preserve is shortly ahead on both sides of the road; park along the shoulder.