One of the true treasures of Berkeley County is Cypress Gardens. Cypress Gardens features boat rides on a black water swamp amidst blooming azaleas, camellias and other native flowers and flora featured in the gardens. Cypress Gardens has long been a draw for groups and visitors of all ages.
Take a serene boat ride on the black water swamp, and then visit the Butterfly House, the Reptile Center and aquarium. Call ahead to book variety of tours which can be customized for your group. Students and adults alike can enjoy a variety of educational programs.
HERPS ALIVE features a hands-on lecture featuring reptiles and amphibians through the use of live animals, bones, skins, and discussion.
BIRDS OF A FEATHER teaches about the wide variety of adaptations in birds and their use in identification. Visitors are then led on an outdoor bird search using binoculars.
FOSSIL DIG defines fossils and their formation in the changing South Carolina landscape. Visitors are then able to search outside in the sand for real fossils and keep their finds.
FROM WORMS TO WINGS examines the life cycle and ecology of butterflies using both live and preserved specimens. The lesson continues at the giant butterfly sculpture and includes a tour of the Butterfly House
FISH STORY, using skulls and mounts, explores the various features of fish necessary for their existence underwater. Visitors are also given a tour of our Aquarium to see live examples.
FLOWER POWER explores why plants have flowers and fruit and why some are carnivorous. Visitors then take a tour of the gardens in and around the Butterfly House to find examples of what they have learned.
BIG BUG HUNT allows visitors to look at a fallen log and discover native arthropods at work in the food chain. Guests then observe exotic examples such as tarantulas, giant millipedes, and hissing cockroaches.
SWAMP SAFARI offers the rare opportunity to explore a real life swamp. Enjoy a safe ride through the black water as our staff paddles large flat-bottom boats among the cypress trees. Look for alligators, turtles, birds and other active wildlife.
CREATURE FEATURE which provides a guided tour of the Butterfly House, Aquarium, Crocodile Isle, and/or Reptile Center, is another group favorite.
Garden Clubs, Bird Watchers and nature enthusiasts also love to come and enjoy these wonderful natural gardens and explore the parks vast nature trails. And, before you leave, don’t forget to stop by our gift shop.
For more information about Berkeley County, call the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce at 843-761-8238, or visit www.berkeleysc.org. Mention this article for special group discounts.