Cypress Gardens
About
Blackwater Swamp Gardens Famous From The Notebook
Cypress Gardens is 170 acres of blackwater swamp and woodland gardens managed by Berkeley County. The signature flat-bottom boat ride through cypress and tupelo trees featured in The Notebook and The Patriot.
What Kids Can Do
The Butterfly House holds 1,500+ native butterflies fluttering free around kids. The Heritage Room and Swamparium let young visitors see baby alligators, turtles, and snakes up close. Self-rowed boats glide through the swamp where alligators and herons live - one adult rows, kids ride. Walking trails connect dwarf palmetto stands and rare native plants [marked: row-your-own boat requires one adult per boat, kids ride free with paying adult].
What's Included
Admission covers swamp boat ride, Butterfly House, Swamparium reptile center, Heritage Room, and walking trails. Picnic shelters first-come, first-served. Stroller-friendly main paths.
Experience
Plan 2-3 hours. About 25 miles north of downtown Charleston in Moncks Corner. Mostly outdoor - bring water, sun protection in summer, bug spray in spring/fall. Free on-site parking. Open daily 9am-5pm, last admission 4pm.