Santee Cooper Country Travel Guide

Explore Santee Cooper Country in South Carolina with this comprehensive travel guide that includes information on places to visit, things to do, hiking/biking routes, accommodations, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and more.


Introduction to Santee Cooper Country

Located in South Carolina, Santee Cooper Country is a hidden gem for those looking for a unique vacation experience. From its rich history and culture to its natural beauty, Santee Cooper Country offers visitors a chance to explore the great outdoors and experience Southern charm at its best.

List of Places to Visit in Santee Cooper Country

Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, Santee Cooper Country has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Santee Cooper Country Heritage Center: Learn about the history and culture of Santee Cooper Country through interactive exhibits and displays.
  • Berkeley County Museum and Heritage Center: Discover the rich history of Berkeley County through artifacts, documents, and exhibits.
  • Old Santee Canal Park: Walk along the historic Santee Canal and learn about its importance in transportation and commerce during the 19th century.
  • Francis Marion National Forest: Explore the forest where Revolutionary War hero Francis Marion once operated.

Natural Attractions of Santee Cooper Country: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Santee State Park: Located on the shores of Lake Marion, this park offers swimming, fishing, hiking, and camping.
  • Sewee Visitor and Environmental Education Center: Learn about the natural history and environmental conservation of Santee Cooper Country.
  • Cooper River: Go on a scenic boat tour along the Cooper River and spot dolphins and other wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santee Cooper Country

If you’re looking for a way to explore the natural beauty of Santee Cooper Country, there are several hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the area:

  • Palmetto Trail: This 500-mile trail crosses through Santee Cooper Country and offers a mix of hiking and biking opportunities.
  • Santee State Park Trail: This 6.1-mile loop trail takes hikers through the forest and along the shore of Lake Marion.
  • Bonneau Beach Trail: This 2.25-mile trail winds through the forest and offers views of the Cooper River.

Best Things to Do in Santee Cooper Country: Activities and Tours

From fishing to kayaking, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy in Santee Cooper Country. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Fishing: Santee Cooper Country is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie offering a variety of fish species.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle along the Cooper River or explore the calm waters of Lake Marion on a kayak or canoe.
  • Charter Fishing Tours: Book a charter fishing tour and catch some of the best fish species in the area, including largemouth bass and catfish.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santee Cooper Country

Day 1: Visit the Santee Cooper Country Heritage Center and learn about the history and culture of the area.

Day 2: Spend the day at Santee State Park, hiking the trails and swimming in Lake Marion.

Day 3: Take a boat tour of the Cooper River and spot dolphins and other wildlife.

Day 4: Explore the Francis Marion National Forest and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Day 5: Go fishing at Lake Marion or Lake Moultrie.

Day 6: Take a kayak or canoe and explore the calm waters of Lake Marion.

Day 7: Relax and unwind at one of the area’s many spas.

Food and Drink Scene of Santee Cooper Country

Southern cuisine is at the heart of Santee Cooper Country’s food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Shrimp and Grits: A Southern classic, this dish features creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a rich sauce.
  • BBQ Pulled Pork: Slow-cooked pork served with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.
  • Frogmore Stew: Also known as Lowcountry boil, this dish features shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, all boiled together.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A Southern staple, this sweet and refreshing iced tea is served everywhere in Santee Cooper Country.
  • Palmetto Brewing Company: This Charleston-based brewery offers a variety of craft beers, including a coffee porter and a watermelon wheat ale.
  • Firefly Distillery: Sample some of the best sweet tea vodka and other flavored liquors at this distillery in Wadmalaw Island.

Where to Stay in Santee Cooper Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Santee Cooper Country offers a variety of accommodations to suit every budget and need. Here are some of the best options:

  • The Inn at Middleton Place: Stay in a historic rice plantation converted into a boutique hotel.
  • Belmond Charleston Place: Located in downtown Charleston, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms and world-class amenities.
  • Lake Marion Resort and Marina: Stay in a spacious cabin overlooking Lake Marion.

What to Buy in Santee Cooper Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

From artisanal crafts to locally-made food products, there are plenty of souvenirs to take home from Santee Cooper Country. Here are some of the best items to buy:

  • Sweetgrass Baskets: Handmade by Gullah artisans, these baskets are a traditional craft from the Lowcountry.
  • Boiled Peanuts: A Southern snack favorite, boiled peanuts can be found in roadside stands in the area.
  • Benne Wafers: Crispy cookies made with sesame seeds, a popular snack in the Lowcountry.

Local Culture and Customs of Santee Cooper Country

Santee Cooper Country has a rich cultural history, influenced by the Gullah/Geechee culture, African-American communities, and Native American tribes. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the area’s cultural heritage and respect local customs.

Best Time to Visit Santee Cooper Country

The best time to visit Santee Cooper Country is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the area is less crowded with tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santee Cooper Country

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do respect the local culture and customs.
  • Do explore the natural beauty of the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural habitats.
  • Don’t trespass on private property.
  • Don’t ignore local warnings about weather or wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santee Cooper Country

Santee Cooper Country is generally a safe area, but visitors should take common-sense precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking car doors and avoiding secluded areas at night.

Health in Santee Cooper Country

Visitors should be aware of common health concerns in the area, such as mosquito-borne illnesses and exposure to sun and heat. It is recommended to use insect repellent and wear protective clothing when outdoors and to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Getting to Santee Cooper Country: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Santee Cooper Country

  • Charleston International Airport
  • Columbia Metropolitan Airport
  • Myrtle Beach International Airport

Bus Stations Near Santee Cooper Country

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Southeastern Stages

Other Options

Santee Cooper Country is easily accessible by car, with major highways and interstates passing through the area.

How to Get Around in Santee Cooper Country

The best way to get around Santee Cooper Country is by car, as public transportation and taxi services are limited in the area.

Where to Go Next from Santee Cooper Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Historic Charleston: Just an hour’s drive away, Charleston is one of the most charming and historic cities in the South.
  • Hilton Head Island: A little further down the coast, Hilton Head Island is a popular vacation spot known for its beaches and golf courses.
  • Myrtle Beach: About two hours away from Santee Cooper Country, Myrtle Beach is a family-friendly beach destination with plenty of attractions and activities.

Conclusion

With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and Southern hospitality, Santee Cooper Country is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the South. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or just relaxing in a charming Southern setting, Santee Cooper Country has something for everyone.



    Moncks Corner