Discover the Hidden Gem of Tom Yawkey Preserve: A Coastal Oasis in South Carolina

Tom Yawkey Preserve, a 24,000-acre wildlife refuge in Georgetown County, South Carolina, is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. The preserve, which was donated to the state after the passing of its owner, Tom Yawkey, in 1976, offers a pristine coastal getaway for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography.

Yawkey, who was the owner of the Boston Red Sox from 1933 to 1976, had a deep connection to the Lowcountry region of South Carolina. As a child, he enjoyed trips to the area, where his uncle owned land on Winyah Bay. Later in life, Yawkey began purchasing nearby tracts of land with the intention of establishing a wildlife preserve, which he eventually donated to the South Carolina Wildlife and Marine Resources Department.

Today, the Tom Yawkey Preserve is managed by the Department of Natural Resources and offers a variety of guided tours and events for visitors. In November 2025, for example, the preserve will host a Birding and Wildlife Photography trip that takes participants through pine forests and managed wetlands to spot a variety of native birds, including blue herons, hawks, ospreys, and peregrine falcons. The excursion also includes a boat ride on the Intracoastal Waterway and a series of short hikes.

Other recurring events at the preserve include an Introductory Field Trip, a Fall Forest Walk, and Christmas-themed visits to learn about the estate's history and how the holiday was traditionally celebrated on the property. While public access is limited to protect the wildlife and ecology, visitors can explore the refuge by appointment or during special events from September through May.