The Oaks Plantation History and Nature Trail

The Oaks Plantation History and Nature Trail opened to the public in October 2007 and brings to life an important element of history of the South Carolina Lowcountry. On the one-half mile, self-guided walking trail through the woods, visitors will see the archeological dig site of the former plantation house, the foundation of the spring house, and the historic Alston family cemetery. Through interpretive panels along the path, visitors will learn about the history of the individuals who lived at The Oaks Plantation during the rice-producing years.

The Oaks Plantation was owned by the Allston/Alston family from the 1730s through the early 1900s and was home to South Carolina Governor Joseph Alston and his wife Theodosia Burr Alston, the daughter of Aaron Burr who was Vice-President of the United States. Her marriage in 1801 was followed by a series of tragedies that ended with Theodosia's disappearance at sea in January of 1813.

Due to it's remote location, access to The Oaks Plantation History and Nature Trail is only on Brookgreen Gardens' vehicle. Tickets for the trail are $3 per person, in addition to regular garden admission, and must be purchased at least 10 minutes before departure.