Lynchburg Savanna Heritage Preserve
Contact Information
SC Department of Natural Resources
Heritage Trust Program
(803) 734-3893 (Columbia)
Hours of Operation
The area is open during daylight hours year-round.
Contributions to the Endangered Wildlife Fund on the South Carolina Income Tax Form help to make the identification and management of these preserves possible.
Photographs
Description
Few people get to see such an excellent example of a wet longleaf pine savanna listed by botanists and ecologists as one of the most biologically diverse and imperiled ecosystems in North America. It is a haven for unusual and rare plants. In the spring, the mating calls of tiny frogs can be almost deafening.
What to look for:
Along the old logging road that loops across the property, look for
insectivorous plants such as the yellow pitcher-plant, hooded pitcher-plant and sundew.
A rich array of wildflowers, some common and some quite rare, provides color from
spring to fall. Lynchburg Savanna has been described as a "hot spot" for a
group of sparrow species rarely seen in one place: Bachman's, song, Lincoln's, and field
sparrows. The older longleaf pines provide nest sites for the endangered red-cockaded
woodpecker. Cricket frogs are one of the few frog species active during the day. Although
you can't help hearing them, you will rarely see them as they move near the water's edge.
In drier areas, look for wild turkeys, bobwhite quail and woodcock.
When to go:
The preserve is open from dawn to dusk, seven days a week. Winter is the best
time to observe all four sparrow species, while wildflowers will bloom at various
times in all seasons but winter. If you're interested in amphibians, visit during
late winter or in the spring.