Overview
Wildlife observation is one of the primary public uses of National Wildlife Refuges. Getting out and learning to identify wildlife species in their native habitat can be very exciting and rewarding. The refuge has 2 observation towers (Bluff Unit and Dingle Pond Unit) as well as several other areas that are great for spotting wildlife. It is recommended that visitors bring a pair of binoculars and a field guide when visiting the refuge, but in case you forget, stop by the visitor center, and take advantage of the loaner program the refuge has available.
The four units on the refuge each offer a variety of outdoor recreation activities for the refuge visitor. The Visitor Center and the Santee Indian Mound-Fort Watson site are found at the Bluff Unit. Hiking the Wright’s Bluff Nature Trail gives visitors a chance to observe a variety of wildflowers, songbirds, small mammals and reptiles. The north side of this trail, along Cantey Bay, is a great place to observe wading birds, Canada Geese, shorebirds and other wetland species. An observation platform and a 15-foot observation tower provide opportunities to view wildlife.
Home to a 350 acre Carolina Bay, Dingle Pond is a unique “depressional” wetland typically fed by rain and natural springs. This area is home to a variety of wildlife species some of which are unique to Carolina Bays. A one-mile dirt trail is open for hiking and provides access to an observation tower overlooking the bay.
