Explore the natural wonders and recreation found in the parks nestled on the banks of the Ashley River.
By Eliza Chapman Bailey
Photography by Bianka Lamb
South Carolina is known for its history, culture, and biodiversity inland and along the coast. Local, county, and state parks and recreation departments safeguard these resources, making them accessible at a nominal cost. In Dorchester County, nestled on the banks of the Ashley River, Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, Ashley River Park, and Rosebrock Park welcome visitors to explore the inland Lowcountry’s history, ecosystems, and waterways along the upper reaches of the river.
Originating in the Wassamsaw Basin, the freshwaters of Ashley River flow through the Great Cypress Swamp of lower Dorchester County and enter Schultz Lake. As it meanders, the river’s ecosystem provides a habitat for native plant species, wildlife, birds, and aquatic life. Turning brackish on its journey to the Atlantic Ocean, the river traverses 13 miles becoming saltwater before joining the Cooper River to form Charleston Harbor with eloquent repose. Its impact on South Carolina’s blueprint is astounding, inviting you to explore its wonders.
In 1550, the Kiawah, Kussoe, Westoe, and Seewee Tribes inhabited the banks, navigated the waters, and relied on the river’s resources. After the European contact, the upper reaches became a center for transport and trading. Known to the Tribes as Kiawah, the river was later named Ashley after one of the eight Lord Proprietors granted the Carolina Colony Charter. In 1695, The colonial settlement of Dorchester was established 15 miles inland on the upper Ashley by Congregationalists from Massachusetts. This historical site was purchased by the State of South Carolina in the 1960s and is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Aptly named Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, the 325-acre park is managed by State Parks and Recreation. It is located at 300 State Park Road in Summerville. It is open between 9 am -6 pm during daylight savings. During this time, visitors can delve into the physical history of colonial town ruins, including the brick bell tower of St. George’s Anglican Church, the remains of an old tabby fort that protected a powder magazine, earthworks, a cemetery, and the foundations of various colonial buildings.
On-site archaeological excavations and artifacts give insight into the daily life of early settlers, the town’s strategic importance for trading, and its decline after the Revolutionary War due to several mitigating circumstances. According to the park’s manager, Noah Letter, “The fort at Dorchester is the best-preserved tabby fortification still extant in the United States.” Interactive signs and exhibits, walking trails, picnic areas, and peaceful surroundings invite visitors to explore the past while casually enjoying the interplay of the ecosystem at the river’s edge.
Ashley River Park is less than three miles from Colonial Dorchester (200 Renken Road) and contains 85 acres of planned scenic recreational space along the Ashley River. Managed by the Dorchester County Department of Parks and Recreation. The park provides visitors with lush open green spaces, two dog parks, a splash pad, playgrounds, a pavilion, designated covered picnic areas with tables and grills, and views of the inland Ashley River. Winding trails through hardwoods and pines are perfect for leisurely strolls, birdwatching, and observing wildlife in their natural habitat. Anglers can fish in the narrow waterway from riverfront docks off the trails and cast a line into the “catch and keep” 4-acre fish pond stock by the Department of Natural Resources. QR codes placed on signs around the pond take visitors to the state fishing regulations, where guests can pay for a downloadable fishing license on the spot. Located outside of the park entrance is the Howard Bridgeman Access, suitable for “carry down” watercraft. The access is a put-in point along the upper Ashley River Blue Trail paddle way. This corridor of the paddle way offers respite from large, motorized boats where paddlers can see numerous historical sites. Here, the waterway’s narrow path and low-hung branches harken to a primordial ecosystem and offer a unique paddling experience with few distractions from others.
Close to Howard Bridgeman Access, across Bacon’s Bridge, on the other side of the river, rests Rosebrock Park (507 Beech Hill Road). Rosebrock Park contains 70 acres of protected bottomland forest with a 1.5-mile trail to the banks of the river. This scenic park includes interpretive signs about history, conservation, science, and engineering with QR codes for more detailed information. Amenities include parking, two picnic shelters, restrooms, and a playground. The entrance to this park is a hop, skip, and a jump from Ashley River Park. Plans are underway to build a tunnel under Bacon’s Bridge for safe crossing and a footbridge to join the two parks and the Library on the Ashley.
Austin Zuniga, Dorchester Country Parks, and Recreation Director reiterates, “Dorchester County is committed to securing tracts of land that have ecological and cultural significance for its citizens and opening those lands for the public to enjoy in perpetuity. The Ashley River corridor along Bacon’s Bridge is intertwined with the identity of Dorchester County and we can’t wait to expand on the success of Ashley River Park by expanding recreational opportunities on the newly acquired undeveloped land across the street from the park adjacent to the Library on the Ashley.”
Colonial Dorchester and Ashley River Park host community events, educational programs, and recreational activities throughout the year. Space is available to rent for events at Ashley River Park, including the Pavilion, which has a bridal suite and kitchen. The three parks’ scenic views, wildlife sightings, and recreational opportunities provide an escape from the hustle and bustle. Whether you want to uncover the past, immerse yourself in nature, or enjoy a day outdoors on the river, these parks are convenient places to unwind after work or visit for the day. For fees or annual pass costs, happenings, and more information, visit their respective websites at:
southcarolinaparks.com/colonial-dorchester
www.dorchestercountysc.gov/services/parks-recreation/ashley-river-park
www.dorchestercountysc.gov/services/parks-recreation/rosebrock-park
