Clarendon County, SC

Bluff Unit

This is the main unit of the Santee National Wildlife Refuge, 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. The road then loops around the Scotts Lake area. 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. Further 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. Recreational activities here are limited, as there is basically just one hiking trail.

John C. Land, III Landing

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

Manchester State Forest

Quite a few trails run thru this forest and the adjacent Poinsett State Park, including the High Hills passage of the Palmetto Trail.

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

This attractive park features 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.

Woods Bay State Natural Area and Woods Bay Heritage Preserve

Visit Woods Bay State Park to see and learn about the mysterious natural phenomena known as the Carolina Bays. Trails and boardwalks lead you around the bay, where you will find plenty of interesting plants and animals.