Clarendon County, SC

Bluff Unit

This is the main unit of the Santee National Wildlife Refuge, and the one that most visitors see. It is on a peninsula between Cantey Bay and the main lake. As you go down the road from the entrance, you will soon pass by the office and visitor center, which is open from 8:00a to 4:00p every day except Monday. The road then loops around the Scotts Lake area, formerly a natural lake that is now covered over by Lake Marion. At the north end of Scotts Lake, you will find the historic site of Fort Watson and the Santee Indian Mound. A hiking trail leads you on a loop through the woods and swampy area, with several boardwalks. Farther on is some farm land that has been planted to attract wildlife.

C. Alex Harvin, III Landing

This boat landing and fishing pier is located at a cove on the north side of Lake Marion.

Cuddo Unit

Cuddo is the easternmost unit of the Santee National Wildlife Refuge. Here you will find some excellent places for hiking and off-road cycling. You can see plenty of wetlands and crop fields, plus get some nice views of Lake Marion.

Dingle Pond Unit

This is the smallest unit of the Santee National Wildlife Refuge. A short hiking trail runs beside this Carolina Bay, with a viewing platform that provides some wonderful views.

Hickory Top Wildlife Management Area

This area protects is a large amount of land, swamp, and water along the northeastern shore of Lake Marion. The Palmetto Trail passes thru here, offering some great views of the Sparkleberry Swamp. This section of the trail can be done on bicycle, but is probably easier to do on foot.

John C. Land, III Landing

The area provides access to the pond below the Lake Marion dam.

Pine Island Unit

Here you will find plenty of scenic dirt roads and trails suitable for hiking or off-road bicycling. You can observe the wildlife, and also see what is being done to attract and retain wildlife.

Randolph's Landing

The area around the north end of the Lake Marion dam is an attractive and interesting place to visit, and a popular fishing spot. From here, you can hike along the top of the dam.

Taw Caw Park

Here you will find an extensive network of boardwalks around Taw Caw Creek, where it empties into Lake Marion. Many picnic tables and a few shelters will also be found here. It is a popular spot for fishing.

Woods Bay State Natural Area and Woods Bay Heritage Preserve

Visit Woods Bay State Natural Area to see and learn about the mysterious natural phenomena known as the Carolina Bays. Hiking trails and boardwalks lead you around the bay, where you will find plenty of interesting plants and animals. In addition, there is a nature center building with a number of displays and park rangers to assist you and to inform you.