Kayaking Sparkleberry Swamp
Following last year's drought (2007), we entered 2008 with most of Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie unpaddleable. Slowly, especially in March and April, the lakes refilled.
On April 13th, Margaret and I decided to check-out Sparkleberry Swamp. Was there enough water for a kayak?
Margaret had a long drive from Asheville and I had a 90 minute drive up from Charleston so we didn't launch until around 11 a.m.
The water level was fine, perhaps only a few inches lower than my experiences during so-called normal times. The water level increase appeared to be recent because at least one-third of the visitors to the ramp were just driving down to see if there was enough water to launch.
Once underway, we found (see map for some blind turns) our way to Riser's Lake where we stopped for lunch. The common lunch area was overgrown and under-trashed because of low activity. Now that the lake is useable again, I expect the trash will mountain over the summer. Why?
It's a whole lot easier to tote out a bag of crushed Bud cans than it is to carry them in. Why can't/won't/don't visitors to the wild haul out their detritus?
If you can copy their SC registration number, report litterbugs to Palmetto Pride at 1-877-7-LITTER (754-8837) or dial #LB on your Cingular or Alltel phone.
Normally, I don't see alligators in this section of the swamp but this time we saw a large one. The gator was just inside the swamp after crossing Riser's on the return trip.
If you visit the swamp, it's a beautiful area with all sorts of flowers, birds, turtles, snakes, and alligators. Getting lost is exceptionally easy. While you can't depend upon them for directions, most Jon boat owners are willing to point you in the right direction.
Here are some photos that I've snapped on various trips through Sparkleberry Swamp. Because of the distance from Charleston, I often camp with friends in Poinsett State Park. The park is a short drive from the launch. In my three visits to date, I've never experienced a shortage of campsites although I usually make reservations.
