Lewis Ocean Bays Heritage Preserve

"My husband and I have enjoyed these trails for years! They are quiet, peaceful, and full of wildlife. I was shocked to see the 1 star reviews from others complaining of bugs (obviously- it’s outdoors???), lack of wildlife (obviously- what deer, bear, fox, or other animal is going to approach a human or stay near the trails which cars frequently drive down????), lack of facilities (this is posted on site). This is a preserve. Not a state park. Trails are amazing for walking, running, hiking, biking, geocaching etc. There are miles and miles of beautiful trails. If you are going to complain about the lack of “views” just go to the beach. If you are going to complain about the bugs, wear spray or stay home. If you are going to complain about the lack of visible wildlife eagerly awaiting humans, go to the zoo. I’m absolutely stunned that people are complaining about this outdoor space. Such a shame. There are very few wild spaces left in Horry County- and some of the people leaving these other reviews are why."

"This is I rare site of the older sandy woods that used to be in this area. Alot of endangered plant species. The biggest black bear population left in sc. Witch is sad. Was made and was used for hunting for many years. The biggest problem with these preserve are the dog walkers that throw trash down and walk all over during hunting season. Most walk the dogs without a leash assuming everyone is OK with there dog running up to them."

"Another area I found while geocaching. I drove it, because at 92°. It was just too hot to hike it. I also thought maybe I'd get a good picture of a bear while I was out here. LOL. The only wildlife I saw were some birds. There are no amenities here. Just a parking area and a rocky dusty trail."

"This area provided critical habitat for endangered plants, pollinators, and native flora and fauna. The fire roads are sandy and can be difficult to walk on or too wet to traverse. I saw Pitcher plants and lots of Pine trees. Wetlands help mitigate climate change and erosion and filter contaminated runoff water. It would be nice to see this area expanded."

"I've lived in Horry County my entire life, this is by far one of my absolute favorite places to enjoy. Lewis Ocean Bays Heritage Preserve represents some of the southernmost extent of the habitat of the rare venus flytrap growing right underfoot in the heart of the longleaf pines that are themselves endangered and once on the brink of extinction. Fire is found here, many of the plants that grow in the pocosins, longleaf pine savannas, and ecotones found through here literally require period fires in order to germinate or grow. 10/10 worth the visit for anyone looking to truly experience the natural beauty of the Myrtle Beach area."