Santee State Park

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Famous for landlocked striped bass

The Setting

Santee State Park serves as headquarters for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers of all kinds from its ideal location near Interstates 95 and 26 on Lake Marion in the nationally known Santee Cooper Country.

The 2,500 - acre park opened in 1949. Santee State Park is in Orangeburg County on the south shore of Lake Marion, one of the two Santee Cooper lakes (along with Lake Moultrie) that were created when more than 100,000 acres were flooded for electric power.

Lake Marion's flooded forest is across from the park, just one of the natural attractions that make the area a national draw for anglers (landlocked striped bass fishing was born on the Santee Cooper lakes) and other sportsmen as well as bird watchers, swamp lovers and boaters under power and sail.

The Facility

The 50 - site Cypress View Campground sits on the west side of the park. The Lakeshore Campground, with one hundred thirteen (113) sites, is located on the east side of the park. Each site is packed sand and has individual water and electrical hookups and picnic table. Both campgrounds are convenient to restroom facilities with hot showers. Many sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet.
163 sites have electricity and water
Dump Station Available
Laundry Facilities Available

Park Features

Bike Trails
You can begin this biking or hiking trek at the trailhead on the right, just before the entrance to the camping area on State Park Road. This broad, mostly level, pine needle covered path passes through a mixed pine and hardwood forest draped with Spanish moss, but in several places, you will be able to glimpse the lake and its numerous cypress trees. You will see several offshoot paths that go into the woods toward the lake, but follow the blue blazes to stay on the main trail. On the inward part of the trail (away from the lake), you will bike/hike over stretches of boardwalk through a thick forest. During the summer you may encounter colorful Golden Silk spiders that spin huge, strong, golden webs. Golden Silk spiders are not a poisonous variety, but their size and webs can be intimidating. Also, during the warm months, carry adequate water supplies and wear insect repellent (and protective clothing) to keep off biting flies and mosquitoes. Facilities are available at the campgrounds and at the swimming area.

Nature Trails
Limestone Nature Trail - This easy, one - mile loop trail starts at a pavilion and guides you through a heavily wooded area near the swimming area. The thick forest cover and terrain of this scenic, twisting trail may make you feel like you're in the mountains. Follow the white blazes and take time to enjoy the wildflowers, buckeye, papaw, and wildlife including deer, rabbits, and snakes. During the warm months, insect repellant is a must.

Oak Pinolly Nature Trail - Starting from the campground in Santee State Park, this is an easy to walk and easy to follow yellow blazed loop trail of one mile. In a nice touch, however, it maintains a remote feel despite crossing directly through the park's most heavily used area. Basically an out - and - back trail, the Oak Pinolly Nature Trail has a small loop at the far end that's a great area to spot deer. One point midway through the trail brims with switchcanes, ostrich ferns, and wild azaleas.

Sinkhole Pond Nature Trail - From the parking area, you will walk through a varied habitat, from a pine forest, to a swampy area, then to a near - desert area around the highlight of this trail, a limestone sinkhole pond. During dry periods you may not see a defined pond, but during wet periods you may see two ponds. You will find an interesting educational sign at the pond, which explains the formation of sinkholes in the area. There are deer trails and random footpaths, including a shortcut through thick brush back to the parking area, but stay on the main trail. Watch for snakes, and in warm months wear insect repellent. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Boating
Two boat ramps provide private boat access to Lake Marion.\

Fishing
Enjoy fishing in Lake Marion for largemouth bass, striped bass, bream, crappie and catfish. A valid South Carolina fishing license required. Located next to the park store is a handicap accessible fishing pier.

Things To Do
Playground Equipment
Six picnic shelters are available for family or other group gatherings. If shelters are not reserved, guests may use shelters on a first - come, first - served basis at no charge. The park store/tackle shop is open year - round and offers limited grocery items, camping supplies, fishing tackle, bait, drinks, snacks and souvenirs.
Other Facilities and Activities: Tennis Courts

Meeting/Gathering Facilities
Meeting Buildings: A rental meeting building is ideal for groups of up to 90 people. Fee: $200 to $250/day. This climate controlled facility includes a fireplace, full service kitchen, BBQ grill, tables and chairs. A projector screen and lectern are available upon request.

Camping Tips

• Don't forget to pickup your park adventure guide at park office building/facilities
• Playgrounds located near picnic area
• Firewood can be purchased at the general store

Address: Metro Area: Santee State Park 251 State Park RD Santee,SC 29142 Phone: (803) 854-2408 Minutes off I-95 at exit 98 Three miles northwest of the town of Santee

Learn more about this park and book your reservation online
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