Two of the island’s most beloved locations are now closed for the remainder of the year.
Botany Bay Plantation and the Edisto Beach State Park, both the island and beach locations, are closed due to damage.
Botany Bay just reopened on July 15, but is now closed due to the damage from the storm. Sadly, one of the most iconic trees that stood out from the water was lost during the storm. This tree made an appearance in numerous photos of visitors and residents alike. However, with the damage from Hurricane Matthew and the enormous storm surge of Irma, the tree was unable to stay standing.
Staff from the South Carolina Dept. of Natural Resources (SCDNR) will work to make repairs and clean up the entirety of Botany Bay. Until then, archery deer hunts will still take place beginning Sept. 15. Anyone participating in these hunts should be aware of the poor road conditions and observe all posted signs and barricades.
The storm also caused significant damage to the Edisto Beach State Park, which reopened less than two weeks ago. As a result of the damage, the oceanfront and Live Oak camp grounds are closed for the remainder of the year.
The camp’s electrical system was severely damaged by the storm surge and saltwater. In addition, downed trees and limbs caused by the wind and a tornado that touched down caused significant damage at the Live Oak campground.
To repair the area, both are closed for the rest of 2017. Refunds will be issued to anyone who had reservations that are impacted by the closure.
