Venture beyond South Carolina's charming coastal cities, and you'll discover a distinctive natural landscape defined by the expansive Santee Cooper Lakes. This interconnected aquatic system, formed by Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, presents a captivating blend of serene cypress swamps, thriving wildlife, and exceptional recreational activities. Renowned as a prime destination for anglers, these lakes are particularly famous for their colossal catfish and a remarkable population of freshwater-adapted striped bass. Beyond fishing, the region invites nature enthusiasts to explore its diverse ecosystems through extensive hiking trails and observe migratory birds within protected refuges.

The Santee Cooper Lakes, despite their ancient appearance, are a testament to human ingenuity, having been artificially created in 1939. This monumental undertaking, initiated by the Public Works Administration under the New Deal, served a dual purpose: to mitigate the frequent flooding from the Santee River Basin and to generate hydroelectric power. A key component of this project was the construction of the Pinopolis Dam and Lock, an engineering marvel that, at 138 feet, was the highest single-lift lock of its era and continues to provide electricity today. The tailwaters below the dam are a hotspot for fishing, as they concentrate fish migrating upstream from the Cooper River. Furthermore, the cypress-studded waters of these lakes offer idyllic settings for various outdoor pursuits, including leisurely boat cruises and wildlife observation.

Before the establishment of Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, the land they now occupy was vulnerable to severe flooding. The creation of these dams not only addressed this critical issue but also provided much-needed reliable electricity to the region. However, this transformation came with a significant social cost. The area was not uninhabited; numerous families, predominantly African American, were displaced and compelled to relocate, often having to clear new land for themselves. Historical records from the International African American Museum indicate that approximately 900 families were uprooted. Remnants of the submerged town of Ferguson, including a lumber kiln and a cemetery, can still be observed on small islands within the lakes, serving as poignant reminders of the past.

The ecological landscape also underwent a profound shift with the creation of the lakes. While initial changes led to a drastic decline in waterfowl populations, conservation efforts have since yielded positive results. The northern shores of Lake Marion are now home to the Santee National Wildlife Refuge, a crucial sanctuary for migratory birds. This area is recognized as an Audubon Important Bird Area, attracting a vibrant array of avian species. During spring, visitors can witness the arrival of colorful indigo buntings, orioles, and tanagers, while the cooler months bring northern shorebirds like Canadian geese, cormorants, and ducks.

For those eager to immerse themselves in the natural beauty surrounding the Santee Cooper Lakes, a network of hiking trails winds through the open waters and swampy terrain. The Caddo Loop Trail, a beginner-friendly 2-mile path within the Santee National Wildlife Refuge, offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Hikers often encounter waterfowl, alligators basking by the lakeside, and white-tailed deer gracefully moving among the cypress trees. Additionally, a segment of the extensive 500-mile Palmetto Trail, known as the Lake Moultrie Passage, spans nearly 27 miles, traversing pine forests and beaches with scenic views across the lake.

The lakes' reputation as premier fishing destinations is well-deserved. Lake Marion holds the world record for the largest channel catfish ever caught, weighing an astonishing 58 pounds. According to Coastal Angler Magazine, an even larger catfish, weighing 143 pounds, was landed in these waters. Autumn is considered the optimal season for pursuing these colossal catfish. Beyond catfish, the lakes are also renowned for their striped bass, a species typically found in saltwater that has remarkably adapted to the freshwater environment here. Spring is the ideal time to target largemouth bass, as they migrate to shallower waters. Conversely, fishing can be more challenging during warmer months when fish seek refuge in cooler depths.

The Santee Cooper Lakes offer a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and unparalleled recreational opportunities, inviting exploration and appreciation of South Carolina's dynamic inland environment.