Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail Commision (ERCK)

05/16/2026

We had a great day out at Aiken State Park for the Kayaking 101 class, where participants learned the basics of paddling, boating safety, and open water awareness while building confidence on the water.

Throughout the day, participants practiced proper paddle techniques, safety equipment use, and general on the water safety practices. The class also included kayak rollovers, self rescue techniques, getting back into a kayak from the water, and safely swimming a kayak to shore.

As part of National Safe Boating Week, South Carolina State Parks and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary partnered with the South Carolina chapter of the American Canoe Association (ACA) to offer these low cost beginner kayaking classes at Aiken State Park, Black River State Park, and Chester State Park. ERCK was proud to assist alongside ACA certified volunteer instructors and safety teams helping introduce more people to safe and responsible paddling on South Carolina’s waterways.

This year marks the fifth year of the event, which has now grown to 40 participating locations across eight states. We appreciate everyone who came out and all the volunteers who helped make the day possible. There’s no better classroom than the outdoors, and we’re proud to help more people safely enjoy South Carolina’s waterways.

04/22/2026

Really cool to see this happening at Beidler Forest Audubon Center & Sanctuary. The Prothonotary Warbler has always been one of the signature birds of the swamp, and it’s great to see that recognition at the state level.
Four Holes Swamp feeds directly into the Edisto River, so this is all part of the same system we’re lucky to paddle and protect. What happens in these wetlands carries downstream, supporting the wildlife, water quality, and overall health of the Edisto.
Proud to be connected to a place like this and to see it getting the attention it deserves.

04/20/2026

Just a heads up for all fellow paddlers and boaters:

A major blockage on the Edisto River just downstream from Sullivan’s Ferry Landing (Stumpknocker Landing) has been cleared. A large pine that was completely obstructing the channel has been removed, making passage safe again.

Huge thanks to Southern Solution Tree Care LLC for stepping up and putting in the time and effort to get it done. That kind of work doesn’t go unnoticed and makes a real difference for everyone out enjoying the river.

We appreciate folks like this who help keep the Edisto open and accessible.

Safe paddling out there!

04/04/2026

Looking for more paddling opportunities this spring and summer? 🛶☀️

Our partner organization, the South Fork Paddlers out of Bamberg County, has announced their 2026 paddle schedule on the South Fork and mainstem of the Edisto River. These trips are a great complement to our winter series and offer a fun way to stay on the water through the warmer months.

They’ll be hosting monthly trips from May through October at various landings, with free shuttle service provided and donations accepted. Trip distances vary throughout the season, and boat rentals are available. See their flyer for full details.

Planning to make a weekend out of it? Several South Carolina State Parks within the general area offer great overnight accommodations. Barnwell State Park, Colleton State Park, and Givhans Ferry State Park offer cabins or camper cabins, as well as traditional campgrounds. Aiken State Park also offers a scenic campground option for those looking to stay nearby. These parks provide excellent access to the Edisto River region and are a great way to turn your paddle trip into a full outdoor getaway. 🌲🏕️

Barnwell State Park: https://southcarolinaparks.com/barnwell
Colleton State Park: https://southcarolinaparks.com/colleton
Givhans Ferry State Park: https://southcarolinaparks.com/givhans-ferry
Aiken State Park: https://southcarolinaparks.com/aiken

Be sure to check out the attached flyer for dates, launch locations, rental information, and contact details. We’re proud to partner with this great group and encourage you to support their efforts! 🌿

Hope to see you out on the river!

03/31/2026

Reminder: Our first Beidler Forest paddle is almost here! 🌿🛶

If you’ve never paddled through Four Holes Swamp, this is your chance. These guided trips with Audubon Beidler Forest take you into a stunning old-growth cypress-tupelo swamp where the water winds quietly beneath towering trees and wildlife is often just around the next bend. It’s a completely different experience from our river trips and one you don’t want to miss.

We still have limited availability for the following dates:

April 4
April 18
May 2
May 16

Spots are filling quickly, so don’t wait to sign up. Reserve your spot at the link below:
https://www.audubon.org/events?view_type=row&location=Audubon%20Center%20at%20Beidler%20Forest

We’re excited to continue this great partnership with Audubon Beidler Forest and hope to see you there!

01/23/2026

❄️ With colder weather on the horizon, here’s a little throwback to warmer days!

These photos are from our most recent ERCK trip on January 10, 2026, paddling from Stokes Bridge to Mars Old Field Landing, with sunny skies and temps near 70° ☀️

We’re hoping for more great conditions on our next trip, February 14, when we’ll paddle from Givhans Ferry State Park to Good Hope Landing.

📅 Be sure to check out our Events page for trip details and updates. We’d love to see you on the water!

01/22/2026

Due to the risk of a Winter Storm and the high-volume sales of bread and milk at the local grocery stores we would like to put out this PSA.

Cold-Weather Paddling Safety Notice
Do NOT Eat Milk Toast While Kayaking During an Ice Storm

Cold-weather paddling presents serious hazards. Adding unnecessary distractions—such as eating soft, crumbly foods—can significantly increase risk.

01/20/2026