It all starts with
The Land
Defined by three historic rivers, and set amid 20,000 acres, Palmetto Bluff is secluded in the truest sense, and that is surely one of the reasons this land remains so pristine today.
For more than a century, the Bluff has been known to a privileged few as one of the wildest and most beautiful places in the South Carolina Lowcountry. With a dedication to conservation versus development, at Palmetto Bluff, every adventure, inside joke and story stays rooted beneath the shelter of century-old live oaks. From calling wild turkeys to calling in your family for a freshly caught dinner, the adventures had here will become the legacies that last generations.
Following Mother Nature's Plan
Living in Harmony
With Nature.
The Palmetto Bluff Conservancy was founded in 2003 with a mission of protecting the lush maritime forests and winding tidal creeks that define the spectacular geography of the land that is home to Palmetto Bluff.
With a vast outdoor classroom, residents and guests alike can participate in classes, lectures and field trips to learn about the many wild species living at Palmetto Bluff and the wide variety of habitats and their importance for wildlife and people.
CONSERVATION IS THE KEY
Exploring the Landscape
in Ways Large and Small.
Land Management
Land Management
Defined by three historic rivers and set amid 20,000 acres, Palmetto Bluff is secluded in the truest sense, and that is surely one of the reasons this land remains so pristine today.
Learn More Learn MoreResearch & Education
Research & Education
The Palmetto Bluff Conservancy is dedicated to increasing our understanding of the natural and cultural environment of the Lowcountry. From biological and archaeological studies by Ph.D.-level scientists to the “citizen science” bluebird survey, the Conservancy team is actively involved in a number of research initiatives at the Bluff.
Learn More Learn MoreHistory & Archaeology
History & Archaeology
History is the fabric of our community, and with the help of an on-site archaeologist, Dr. Mary Socci, we study artifacts that reveal the fascinating details about previous occupants of the area.
Learn More Learn MoreEvents & Outreach
Events & Outreach
With a vast outdoor classroom at our fingertips, the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy team members are ambassadors to each resident and guest, introducing them to this landscape in ways large and small, structured and informal.
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Conservation
Preserving Paradise: The Mission of the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy
Protecting Nature and History at Palmetto Bluff In the heart of South Carolina's Lowcountry lies Palmetto Bluff, a sanctuary of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant ecosystems. Since its establishment in 2003, the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy has been dedi...
Jun 2024
Conservation
Palmetto Bluff Conservancy 2024 Summer Camps
The Conservancy is looking forward to another summer of fun with our upcoming kid's programs! Wild Child Camp and Junior Naturalist Camp will have dedicated weeks in June. Registration is $200 per child for the week. To participate, parents must fill out t...
Apr 2024
Conservation
Palmetto Bluff Buffalo Run 2023: A Celebration of Endurance, Nature, and Community
A Recap of the 2034 Buffalo Run The Palmetto Bluff Buffalo Run celebrated its 10th anniversary on Sunday, December 11, 2023, drawing in a record-breaking crowd of over 500 runners. The event, nestled in the heart of Palmetto Bluff's 20,000 acres of natural sp...
Dec 2023
Conservation
From The Ashes
Story and Photographs by Joel Caldwell I am driving through the predawn dark, trying to find the office of Jay Walea, the longtime Director of the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy. It’s a warm morning in late May, my windows are down, and I’m listening to that pecu...
Nov 2023
Conservation
Behind the Bluff with Palmetto Bluff Conservancy Educator: Aaron Palmieri
Aaron’s Journey to the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy In the heart of the Lowcountry, where lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems flourish, lies a hidden gem known as Palmetto Bluff. This breathtaking sanctuary serves as a haven for an array of wildlife, offer...
Aug 2023
Conservation
The Bluff - Turkey Trot
When I ask Jay Walea, the director of the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy, why he loves hunting turkeys, his response is quick and confident, as if the importance of the turkey was paramount. “A lot of people can go out at the right time in the season and make a tu...
Mar 2023
Conservation
Stewarding This Great Land
Stewardship: The art of taking care of something, such as an organization or property Steward: A person who takes care of something, such as an organization or property The simplicity of these definitions belies their importance. The Palmetto Bluff C...
Jan 2023
Conservation
Species Profile: Seminole Bat
Description Seminole bats (Lasiurus seminolus) are a medium-sized bat, measuring around 4.5 inches from head to tail with a wingspan of approximately 12 inches. They weigh between 8-15 g with females a little larger than males. This is about the sam...
Nov 2022
Conservation
Biking For Conservation
Palmetto Bluff resident, David Sebastian, has embarked on the trek of a lifetime - a 3,000-mile cross-country bicycle ride from San Diego to Palmetto Bluff. Riding solo, the six week journey will raise funds for two nonprofits close to David’s heart, one of wh...