Date:  Saturday, August 8, 2026

Location:  Gum Swamp Road, Aiken Co., Jackson, SC

• Meeting Time:  9:00 am – to 3:00 pm
• Meeting Spot:  We will meet at the Kathwood Lakes parking area (GPS coordinates 33.3373, -81.8435) of the Silver Bluff Audubon Center and Sanctuary. We will leave some cars at this location and consolidate the number of vehicles. Kathwood Lakes is located on Silver Bluff Road just before the paved road turns to dirt and approximately 200 yards after crossing the railroad tracks coming south. Kathwood Lakes is the name Google Maps uses for the bodies of water at this location.

Description:  We will drive along Gum Swamp Road and stop at various locations along the road to explore areas of interest (or wherever we see butterflies).

Target Species:  Seminole Crescent, Silvery Checkerspot, Zebra Swallowtail, Lace-winged Roadside-Skipper, Tawny Emperor, and Hackberry Emperor

Notes:  No restrooms are available along Gum Swamp Road. If you are coming from the north, Beech Island is the nearest place with bathrooms, places to eat and gas stations. If coming from the south, Jackson is the nearest place for these items. If coming from the east down Silver Bluff Road, (SC 302), Aiken will be the last town on your way. Jackson will be to your south on SC 125 if you need to stop just prior to the meeting spot. Please bring water, lunch, binoculars, cameras and field guides. Sunscreen, bug spray, long pants and close-toed shoes are highly recommended.

Trip Leader:  John Demko

Lodging & Dining Recommendations:  N/A

Sign-up:  Please contact John Demko at leveljohn7@gmail.com if you are planning to attend. You can also register by using the “Register” link above.

Directions:  N/A