Join us for Watermelon Splash Morning at Cotton Branch, a simple, joyful summer morning with rescued animals, cold drinks, popsicles, lemonade, and watermelon joy. 🍉

This is a relaxed guided stroll around the refuge where guests can meet rescued residents, learn how we care for the animals during the hottest part of the year, and watch watermelon become hydration, enrichment, comfort, and happiness for the animals who call Cotton Branch home.

The stroll will begin at 9:00 AM sharp so we can enjoy the morning before the worst of the July heat settles in. Please plan to arrive a little early for check-in, parking, and watermelon drop-off.

Guests are encouraged to bring a watermelon (or more) for the animals. You do not have to bring one to attend, but every watermelon helps provide hydration, enrichment, and a very dramatic amount of pig happiness.

Your ticket includes:

A guided summer stroll around Cotton Branch
Walk with us through the refuge, meet rescued residents, and experience a peaceful summer morning on the farm.
Popsicles and lemonade
Because it is July in South Carolina, and cold treats are part of the survival plan.
Water and electrolyte water
We will have hydration available so everyone can stay comfortable during the stroll.
Watermelon enrichment viewing
See how watermelon becomes more than a snack for the animals. It is hydration, enrichment, comfort, and joy all in one.
A behind-the-scenes look at summer care
Learn how we help rescued animals stay cool, hydrated, and cared for during some of the hottest days of the year.
Time for questions with the Cotton Branch team
Ask us about the animals, refuge life, summer care, rescue work, or anything you have always wanted to know.

This is not a big festival. It is not a complicated event. It is a summer morning at the refuge with animals, community, cold drinks, and a whole lot of watermelon happiness.

General Admission, Ages 13+ - $19.99
Includes one ticket to Watermelon Splash Morning at Cotton Branch, featuring a guided refuge stroll, popsicles, lemonade, water, electrolyte water, and watermelon enrichment viewing. A parent or guardian must accompany anyone under 18.

Child Admission, Ages 3 to 12 - $9.99
Includes one child ticket to Watermelon Splash Morning at Cotton Branch. Children must attend with a parent or guardian.

Little Ones, Ages 2 and Under - Free
Free admission for children 2 and under. Registration is required so we can plan for parking, check-in, and capacity.

Watermelon Splash Morning at Cotton Branch

A simple summer stroll at the refuge with rescued animals, popsicles, lemonade, cold drinks, and watermelon joy.