Spectacular Donnelley Wildlife Management Area: An Unforgettable Wildlife Drive in South Carolina’s ACE Basin (2023), SC

In 2023, we returned to Donnelley Wildlife Management Area on April 21, eager to explore the remarkable wildlife and landscapes of South Carolina’s ACE Basin.

We initially set out on the Boynton Trail, but the trail was more overgrown than we expected. Rather than continue, we decided to turn around and try a different approach to exploring the area.

We returned to the car and embarked on the 11-mile wildlife drive, stopping whenever we spotted something interesting. This turned out to be a wonderful way to experience Donnelley WMA because we could take our time, watch for wildlife, and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Of course, alligators were among the highlights, but this visit brought some especially exciting sightings. I was thrilled to see several beautiful roseate spoonbills and wood storks, along with egrets, cormorants, moorhens, and herons.

For anyone who enjoys birdwatching and wildlife photography, Donnelley WMA is a fantastic destination. Every stop along the drive offered the possibility of another wildlife encounter, and having the freedom to linger when we spotted birds made the experience even more enjoyable.

Located near Green Pond, South Carolina, Donnelley Wildlife Management Area encompasses approximately 8,047 acres of diverse habitats, including wetlands, upland areas, former rice fields, and longleaf pine forests. These varied ecosystems provide important habitat for an impressive array of wildlife.

The area is named in honor of Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley, whose contributions played an important role in conservation efforts within the ACE Basin. Today, the property is owned and managed by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR).

Our visit was a reminder that sometimes changing plans can lead to an even better experience. Although the Boynton Trail wasn’t ideal on this particular day, the wildlife drive gave us plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of the ACE Basin.

If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check the SCDNR website for current information, scheduled events, and hunting closures before heading out. Access to the property can vary depending on management activities.

If You Go

Location: Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, near Green Pond, South Carolina.
Size: Approximately 8,047 acres.
Managed by: South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR).
What You’ll See: Wetlands, former rice fields, longleaf pine forests, and upland habitats.
Wildlife: Alligators, roseate spoonbills, wood storks, egrets, cormorants, moorhens, herons, and many other birds and wildlife.
Wildlife Drive: The approximately 11-mile drive is a great option for exploring the area and looking for wildlife from your vehicle.
Best For: Birdwatching, wildlife photography, nature viewing, and scenic drives.
What to Bring: Binoculars, a camera with a telephoto lens, water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Before You Visit: Check SCDNR’s website for current access information, scheduled events, and hunting closures. The area may be closed during certain hunting periods.
Check out my 2023 Donnelley Wildlife Management Area post with different photos of this incredible WMA