Henderson Heritage Preserve

Henderson Heritage Preserve was acquired and dedicated to protect a longleaf pine-scrub oak sandhills ecosystem. Established in 1993 when Ms. Rosetta Miller donated 197.5 acres to the S.C. Department of Natural Resources. The preserve is named in honor of Ms. Miller’s great grandfather, Frank P. Henderson, who was a former mayor of Aiken.

12,000 years ago, fire-dependent longleaf pine ecosystems became the most extensive ecosystems in the southeastern United States, covering 60-90 million acres. Today, because of fire suppression and harvesting without replacement, only about 3 million acres remain. These forests, although dominated by a single canopy tree species, are one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in North America. Biologists conduct prescribed burns to mimic natural fires and restore and maintain the ecosystem. The preserves is mostly comprised of mature longleaf pine and turkey oak, but several species of wiregrass, rosemary and blueberry can be found. The preserve’s rarest element is the plant species, bog spicebush.

1.4 mile hiking trail available. Foot traffic only. Open for public use from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.