Santee NWR Wildlife Drive

5-mile wildlife drive, 1-3 mile trails

1-3 hours

15,000 acres of managed wetlands on Santee Cooper. One of the best birding sites in South Carolina. Tens of thousands of wintering waterfowl, resident bald eagles, and wood storks on a 5-mile wildlife drive accessible to all.

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.

Tips from the field

Winter (November through March) is peak season for waterfowl. Bring binoculars.
The wildlife drive is accessible by car. Walking trails branch off for closer views.
Bald eagles are resident year-round. Look for them perched in dead trees near the water.
Free admission. The refuge is open during daylight hours.

At a Glance

Where: Santee NWR, Summerton, SC

Surface: Paved wildlife drive, packed dirt walking trails

Parking: Paved parking at refuge entrance

Shade: Mixed open fields and forested sections

Restrooms: Flush restrooms at refuge visitor area

Accessibility

Wheelchair Accessible (wildlife drive)
Dog-Friendly
Free Admission

Nearby

Santee State Park (adjacent)
Summerton (10 min)
Santee Cooper lakes