Santee National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 15,000 acres of managed wetlands, uplands, and open water on the shores of Lake Marion. The refuge is one of the most important wintering waterfowl areas in the Southeast, with tens of thousands of ducks and geese using the impoundments from November through March.
The wildlife drive loops through the refuge with multiple viewing areas. Walking trails branch off the drive for closer looks at the impoundments and forest edge. Bald eagles are resident year-round and easy to spot. Wood storks, herons, egrets, and ibis work the shallows in summer.