Birding & Nature Resources in Charleston & Mt. Pleasant, SC
If you're looking to get more involved in birding or connect with others in the Lowcountry, there are some wonderful local organizations, bird walks, and nature-focused groups right here in the Charleston and Mt. Pleasant area.
Below are a few of my favorite resources for birding events, education, and native plant inspiration.
Bird Walks & Local Birding Groups
The Charleston Bird Club
The Charleston Bird Club is one of the most well-known birding organizations in the Charleston area and a great place to start if you’re looking to get more involved in local birding.
They regularly host guided bird walks, field trips, and birding events throughout Charleston and the surrounding Lowcountry, including locations like Mount Pleasant, Awendaw, and other nearby природ habitats. These outings are a great opportunity to:
learn how to identify local bird species
explore new birding locations
connect with other bird enthusiasts in the area
Whether you’re brand new to birding or have been enjoying birds in your backyard for years, their events are welcoming and educational.
👉 View upcoming bird walks and events here: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/19tJ9BdGf9/
Charleston Natural History Society
The Charleston Natural History Society is a fantastic local resource for anyone interested in learning more about the natural world here in the Lowcountry.
They offer a variety of educational programs, guided walks, lectures, and field trips that go beyond just birding, covering topics like native plants, wildlife habitats, and seasonal changes throughout the Charleston area.
For those who enjoy backyard bird feeding, this is a great way to:
better understand the habitats birds rely on
learn how local ecosystems support bird populations
explore new areas to observe birds in their natural environment
Their events are thoughtful, well-led, and a great fit whether you’re just getting started or looking to deepen your knowledge.
👉 View upcoming programs and events here: https://charlestonnaturalhistorysociety.org/
Holy City Birder
Holy City Birder offers locally guided bird walks throughout the Charleston area, making it a great option if you’re looking for a more personal, hands-on birding experience.
These walks are typically smaller and more relaxed, giving you the opportunity to:
- ask questions as you go
- learn bird identification in real time
- explore some of the best birding spots around Charleston and Mount Pleasant
It’s a great fit for beginners who want a little more guidance, as well as for experienced birders who enjoy getting out and seeing what’s active locally.
Many of the walks highlight seasonal activity, which can be especially helpful for understanding what birds you might expect to see in your own backyard.
👉 View upcoming bird walks and details here: https://www.birdingcharleston.com/
Charleston County Parks
Charleston County Parks offers some of the best opportunities in the Lowcountry to experience birds and wildlife in their natural habitats.
Throughout the year, they host a variety of guided bird walks, nature programs, and educational events across several beautiful locations, including areas near Mount Pleasant and Awendaw. Popular birding spots like Caw Caw Interpretive Center provide excellent access to wetlands, woodlands, and open habitats that attract a wide variety of species.
These programs are a great way to:
learn bird identification in the field
explore new birding locations around Charleston
experience seasonal migrations and local wildlife up close
If you’re looking to expand beyond your backyard and see what’s happening across the Lowcountry, Charleston County Parks is one of the best places to start.
👉 View upcoming programs and bird walks here (pro tip) type "bird" in the search bar: https://www.ccprc.com/events/
Center for Birds of Prey
Center for Birds of Prey is one of the most unique and well-known wildlife education centers in the Charleston area, located just outside Mount Pleasant in Awendaw.
They specialize in the rehabilitation and conservation of birds of prey, including hawks, owls, falcons, and vultures, and offer incredible educational programs for the public.
Visitors can experience:
- live flight demonstrations
- up-close views of raptors
- guided tours and educational talks
- seasonal programs focused on bird conservation
While their focus is on birds of prey rather than backyard songbirds, it’s an excellent opportunity to:
deepen your understanding of local bird species
learn how birds fit into the larger ecosystem
gain a greater appreciation for the wildlife we support in our own yards
It’s also a fantastic outing for families or anyone looking to connect more deeply with birds beyond the feeder.
👉 Learn more and view program details here: https://thecenterforbirdsofprey.org/
South Carolina Bluebird Society
The South Carolina Bluebird Society is a valuable resource for anyone interested in attracting and supporting bluebirds here in the Lowcountry.
This organization focuses on the conservation and education of Eastern Bluebirds and other native cavity-nesting birds throughout South Carolina. They provide helpful guidance on:
proper nest box setup and placement
monitoring and maintaining bluebird boxes
understanding bluebird behavior and nesting cycles
If you’ve ever thought about putting up a bluebird house—or you’re already seeing bluebirds in your yard—this is a great place to learn how to support them successfully.
They also share information on local events, workshops, and bluebird trails across South Carolina, which can be a great way to get more involved.
👉 Learn more and explore resources here: https://southcarolinabluebirds.org/
Native Plant Resources for Mt. Pleasant
Creating a bird-friendly yard goes beyond feeders. Native plants provide natural food sources, shelter, and nesting habitat that support birds year-round here in the Lowcountry.
If you’re looking to incorporate more native plants into your landscape, these local nurseries and resources are a great place to start:
South Carolina Native Plant Society
The South Carolina Native Plant Society is an excellent resource for anyone interested in incorporating native plants into their yard here in the Lowcountry.
In addition to offering helpful plant guides and educational materials, they also host local events, plant sales, workshops, and field trips throughout the Charleston area and across South Carolina. These events are a great way to:
learn which native plants thrive in our coastal environment
see mature plantings in real-world settings
connect with others interested in sustainable, wildlife-friendly landscaping
If you’re looking to create a yard that naturally supports birds, pollinators, and other wildlife, this is a great place to deepen your knowledge and get involved.
👉 Explore upcoming events and resources here: https://scnps.org/
Native Plants to the People
Native Plants to the People is a wonderful local resource focused on making native plants more accessible to the Charleston community.
They specialize in locally grown native plants that support birds, pollinators, and overall backyard biodiversity here in the Lowcountry. You’ll often find them at plant sales, pop-up events, and local markets, making it easy to get started with native planting without needing a full nursery visit.
They’re a great option for:
- adding bird-friendly plants to your yard in a simple, approachable way
- finding species that naturally support insects and seed-eating birds
- learning more about how native plants contribute to a healthier backyard ecosystem
If you’re looking to gradually transition your yard into a more wildlife-friendly space, this is a great place to start.
👉 Learn more and find upcoming events here: https://www.nativeplantsttp.com/
Roots and Shoots Nursery
Roots and Shoots Nursery specializes in native and pollinator-friendly plants that are well-suited to our Mt. Pleasant and coastal South Carolina environment.
They’re a great resource for:
- native shrubs and trees that provide berries and cover
- pollinator plants that also support insect-eating birds
- guidance on what grows well in our sandy, coastal soils
If you’re just getting started with native planting, this is an approachable and knowledgeable place to begin.
👉 Visit their website: https://www.rootsandshootsnursery.com/