Aiken Gopher Tortoise Hertiage Preserve/Wildlife Management Area

Biking, Equestrian, Fishing, Hunting, Nature Viewing, Hiking

Be still. Watch. Listen. Open the doors to all your senses and you'll discover a brand new world of wonder and delight at Aiken Gopher Tortoise Heritage Preserve, near Aiken, S.C. The approximately 1,622-acre preserve is home to the rare and state-listed endangered gopher tortoise, a keystone reptile that provides shelter for many other species of animals in its 30-foot long underground burrows, which are about 10 to 15 feet deep. The preserve is the northernmost known location of the large, terrestrial tortoises, which have stumpy, elephantine hind feet.