Nature Center Phone: (843) 828-4837
Take Magnolia Lake Circle, turn left at Site Z-67. Located behind Sandy Mart.
A one-of-a-kind facility in this area, the Ocean Lakes Leonard Raker Nature Center Discovery Lab focuses on marine life. It all began with Leonard Raker, Founder, and Curator, who traveled extensively during our off-season gathering items for exhibit.
The Nature Center has interesting fossils, digging sites, fun activities, and a variety of exhibits with information on all aspects of nature. Attend any of our activities for your opportunity to get hands-on experience and expand your knowledge while having fun!
Join our Nature Center Team for the following:
• Participate in nature-based activities.
• Learn about our resident animals and species of turtles.
• Discover the amazing history of Ocean Lakes.
• Identify shark teeth for a prize.*
• Like free ice cream? Volunteer with iServe with Sandy.*
*Limits: One shark tooth prize per family. Two ice cream vouchers max per person.
Join our knowledgeable team on a beach walk to find out where all the good “shell” beds are located along the Grand Strand.
Download the Shell ID Card – Front – Back.
Check out our Activities Calendar to learn about the different hands-on, educational nature-based activities we offer.
Families enjoy the interactive “Dig and Discover” digging site located outside the building. Once the kids have finished digging for fossils, swing by our tree-covered playground near Magnolia Lake. It’s a cool, relaxing spot for more outdoor fun!
Hours of Operation:
| In-Season (Memorial Day – Labor Day) | |
| Monday – Saturday | 9 AM – 5 PM |
| Sunday | 10 AM – 5 PM |
| Off-Season (After Labor Day) | |
| Monday – Friday | 9 AM – 4 PM |
| Saturday – Sunday | Closed |
| Hours may be subject to change. Changes will be posted at the Nature Center door. | |
