A large section of Johns Island is on its way to becoming a beautiful public nature area, thanks to the efforts of the Kiawah Conservancy. Nearly 100 acres of upland and marshland are being restored and transformed into a welcoming space for locals and visitors to enjoy nature, learn, and connect with the Lowcountry landscape.
Land Restoration and Conservation in Action
The Kiawah Conservancy has spent the last few years acquiring three connected properties on Johns Island. The purchases were made possible through a mix of private donations and support from organizations like the South Carolina Conservation Bank and the Charleston County Greenbelt Program.
Some of the land had previously been used for commercial purposes. Now, the focus is on restoring native plant life, including native trees and marsh vegetation that reflect the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.
Sean Cannon, a restoration and enhancement specialist with the Conservancy, shared, “You’ll be able to see the expanse of the marsh this property is preserving. It’s a really beautiful area, and we’re excited to make it accessible to the community.”
Plans for Trails, Education, and Culture
The vision for this nature preserve goes beyond just walking trails. The Conservancy has big plans to make the area a community-centered learning and recreation space, including:
Walking trails with scenic views
Educational signage about local ecosystems and wildlife
A learning center for community and school events
Sweetgrass basket stands to honour and support Gullah Geechee culture
Native gardens featuring plants from the region
“We really want to make this a place where people can enjoy and learn about nature,” said Cannon. “The Lowcountry is special, and we want to protect and share it with the public.”
Opening in Phases
While the project is still in the permitting phase, the team hopes to begin opening portions of the site by next year. The first phase will likely include trails and parking, making the property partially accessible while work continues.
The Conservancy already offers guided tours throughout the year and plans to expand public access step by step.
Upcoming Community Session
For those interested in learning more, a public information session will be held on September 8. Attendance is free but RSVP is required, as space is limited. This session will provide more details about the site, future plans, and opportunities for community involvement.
This project by the Kiawah Conservancy marks an exciting development for Johns Island and the greater Charleston community. Turning nearly 100 acres of land into a thriving, restored nature area is not just about conservation—it’s about creating a space where people can connect with the land, the culture, and each other. Whether you’re a nature lover, a local history enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful place to walk and learn, this new public space is something to look forward to.
