The Brasstown Creek Heritage Preserve bounds the Sumter National Forest, US Army Corps of Engineers property and Georgia Power property along the western border of Oconee County. The preserve provides habitat for several rare plant species, such as Piedmont strawberry, and an unusual plant community, the Pitch Pine Heath. Black bear, found throughout the South Carolina mountains, are also found on this preserve. The rare Pitch Pine Heath community is thought to be a fire-dependent community. This community occurs on dry ridgetops where the clay, sometimes sandy, soils are thin and rocky. A rare plant species that is found in this community is turkey beard. Turkey beard is considered very rare throughout its range, particularly in South Carolina. Rare plants that occur in the rich hardwood coves of this preserve include Piedmont Strawberry, Southern Nodding Trillium, Rough Sedge, Bitter Cress and a species of Purple Sweet Pinesap, a plant that parasitizes the roots of certain tree species. This species is found only in the Southern Appalachian Mountains and is exceedingly rare. Hunting is allowed in accordance with Game Zone 1 regulations. A small, paved parking area lies near a restricted access gate, beside the Tugaloo River. Visitors are encouraged to use the generally flat road behind the gate for hiking, and for foot access for hunting and fishing, etc. Fishing is allowed, with a license, in the Tugaloo River and in Brasstown Creek.