Turner Creek flows through the coastal marshlands of Chatham County, Georgia, serving as a tidal waterway connecting Wilmington Island to the broader network of estuarine channels that characterize the region. The creek originates in the salt marshes west of Wilmington Island and flows generally eastward before joining the Bull River, providing access to one of the most pristine marsh ecosystems along Georgia's coast.

This tidal creek offers exceptional paddling opportunities for kayakers and canoeists seeking to explore Chatham County's extensive saltwater marsh system. The waterway is part of the Georgia Coast Saltwater Paddle Trail, which connects multiple coastal counties from the Florida border to Tybee Island. Turner Creek specifically serves as a critical link in this 189-mile network, offering paddlers a relatively protected route through the marshes with opportunities to observe the area's rich ecological diversity.

Access to Turner Creek is available at the Turner Creek Boat Ramp, located at 98 Johnny Mercer Boulevard on Wilmington Island. This facility provides a paved boat ramp, floating dock, and parking, making it one of the more convenient launch points in the area. The ramp is managed by Chatham County Parks and Recreation Department. Additional access can be found at Hogan's Marina nearby, which offers amenities including supplies, parking, and proximity to convenience stores and pharmacies.

Paddling Turner Creek requires understanding of tidal patterns, as the area experiences significant tidal fluctuations typical of Georgia's coast—ranging from one to more than seven feet. The creek can be shallow at low tide, and strong currents develop during tidal changes. Planning trips to coincide with favorable tides is essential, particularly for less experienced paddlers. The waterway is suitable for intermediate paddlers familiar with tidal conditions, though beginners can navigate the creek safely during slack tide periods.

The surrounding salt marshes support abundant wildlife, including wading birds such as egrets and herons, as well as bottlenose dolphins that frequently enter the creek system. The marshes themselves are dominated by Spartina alterniflora (smooth cordgrass), creating the characteristic "golden marsh" appearance during certain seasons. American alligators inhabit these waters, though they are generally non-aggressive when given appropriate distance.

The creek connects to the Bull River, which provides access to Little Tybee Island and the broader coastal waterway system. Multi-day paddling trips are possible by combining Turner Creek with other segments of the Georgia Coast Saltwater Paddle Trail, though most paddlers use the creek for day trips exploring the marsh ecosystem. The proximity to Wilmington Island's residential areas makes Turner Creek particularly accessible for local paddlers while still offering an authentic coastal Georgia wilderness experience.