Ask Jon Kohler
Harper's Pond is a 235+/- acre high-quality recreational property just west of Estill, SC in a neighborhood of and bordered by numerous large, like-minded landowners. The property is a sportsman's paradise. It features a 26-acre private lake, creeks, live oaks, a mix of mature pine, open quail woods, hardwood corridors, and thick planted pines for deer bedding cover. The property is consistently burned and park-like, except for strategically placed areas of planted pines for deer bedding cover. The 6-bedroom lodge was inspired by the Old Fields Plantation and is in exceptional condition. Located just seven miles West of Estill, SC, and one hour from Savannah, Georgia, this is a unique opportunity to step right into an exceptionally well-managed property.
Every acre of this property has been strategically improved and designed for wildlife management, primarily, deer and turkey. The neighborhood is a "who's who" of QDMA. This part of the world is renowned for exceptional deer populations. Large agricultural fields surround the property that provide feed and nutrition for deer. The famed Groton Plantation itself borders the contiguous 420-acre transferable hunting lease giving this property a 655-acre hunting footprint among the "best of the best" hunting lands in the Lowcountry. On the 235 acres of deeded land an extensive and highly developed 20+/- acre food plot system, designed by legendary wildlife biologist Dave Edwards, supports the abundant deer, quail, dove, and other wildlife populations.
Harper's Pond itself is one of the signature properties of the area. Within the last three years it too underwent an intensive rehabilitation led by famed fisheries biologist Greg Grimes, bringing it into the forefront of modern lake management. This 26-acre deep lake is fed from 26,000 acres of farmland providing for a nutrient-rich fishery. Over 1,500 "feed trained" largemouth were stocked which are now averaging around 2 lbs. and fed by a series of 8 feeders.
Encapsulated by a gorgeous drive along the lake, the main home blends perfectly with its surroundings. A new driveway and landscaping give way to the 4,365+/- square foot, six-bedroom, 5.5-bath home. The home was custom-built in 2009 and underwent a full renovation over the last three years. It has heart pine and cypress reclaimed from the "Peoples Place," brick-lined flooring, a gourmet chef's kitchen, and grand living spaces. The large welcoming foyer/dog trot runs the length of the house allowing one to view the beautiful pond immediately upon entry. The spacious master suite sits privately tucked away to one side while of the 1st floor, on the other side, the foyer opens up to a beautiful dining room and living room space. This area is surrounded by windows so one can take in nature while enjoying a good meal and great company. Beyond this space and past an ample bar is the chef's kitchen, cozy family room and breakfast nook, also with a wall of windows overlooking the pond. Finally, with ample space for lounging, perhaps the most intriguing of the many spaces, is the outdoor pavilion, 1,000 sq. ft with a large outdoor brick fireplace and wood-fired pizza oven.
The property is very private, rural and makes an exceptional Social Storm Property Trademark . This is exactly the kind of place one would take their family during the next pandemic, or worse. The Social Storm Trademark score is exceptional.
