
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.
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Research & 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.
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History & 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.
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Events & 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 / Water Way
Palmetto Bluff is an ecological wonderland, with its maritime forest and tidal rivers, its salt marsh and abundant wildlife. But perhaps one of the most unique features of this wedge of Lowcountry is the impressive inland waterway that wends through the landsc...
Aug 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 / 5 Best Places to See Winter Wildlife in the Lowcountry
Experience Winter Wildlife This Season The Lowcountry is a wondrous place to live, not only for its breathtaking scenery and historical significance but also for the wildlife that it inhabits. The winter wildlife in South Carolina includes a wide variety ...
Dec 2022

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...
Oct 2022

Conservation / The Magic of the Resurrection Fern
If you've ever wandered the streets of Palmetto Bluff and gazed up at our centuries-old live oaks, you probably noticed delicate green fronds creeping up and curling around the massive trunks and branches, carpeting the trees in a lush green coat. This iconic ...
Oct 2022

Conservation / Paradise Lost: Hidden Nature Trails in Palmetto Bluff
Discover the Magic of Palmetto Bluff Nature Trails Do you ever get the feeling of wanting to escape and wander lost into a serene paradise? Our many nature trails at Palmetto Bluff afford opportunities to roam and admire the vastness of our 20,000 acres. ...
Sep 2022

Conservation / In the Field: August Spotlight Survey
Every year in August, on nights with no moon, the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy conducts its annual Spotlight Survey. This survey is designed to provide an accurate estimate of Palmetto Bluff’s white-tailed deer herd. It is quite an undertaking. Conservancy staff...
Aug 2022
curious about life at the bluff?