Santee National Wildlife Refuge, National Wildlife Refuge on Lake Marion, South Carolina

Santee National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area along Lake Marion's northern shore containing mixed forests, wetlands, and open water. The land supports different habitats that provide food and shelter for wildlife.

The refuge holds the Santee mound, the easternmost known example of Mississippian culture. In April 1781, Marion's Brigade captured the British Fort Watson built atop it. The refuge itself was established in 1941 and lost its Lake Moultrie section in Berkeley County in 1976 when the lease ended.

The Santee mound here marks the easternmost known expression of Mississippian culture, and archaeologists have investigated the site for decades. British Fort Watson was built on top of the mound and taken by Marion's Brigade in April 1781. The refuge itself was established in 1941.

The refuge lies in Clarendon County beside Lake Marion, about 13 km from Summerton, with Dingle Pond as a Carolina Bay wetland to look for. Terrain is low and flat, roughly 22 m above sea level, so paths can be wet; bring waterproof footwear and rain gear. Summer is hot and humid with frequent rain, while winters are mild.

During winter months thousands of Canada geese from northern regions gather here to rest on the water. These large bird concentrations make the refuge a special natural spectacle during the cold season.