Whether it’s the long drives to work or the 9-5 shifts, life in the city can be tiring. That’s why vacation goers seek out calmer and more relaxed tourist destinations. Summerton provides visitors with a slower-paced lifestyle while enjoying many of nature’s offerings. A perfect example of southern hospitality, it was initially made as a leisure spot for plantation owners. They would come to the place during summer to escape the heat, hence its original name, summer town. Its surrounding areas are characterized by open plains, many of which bore witness to the battles fought during the American Revolution. Many of these historical sites are well-preserved, while items from the period are handled carefully in nearby museums like Eclipse or Fort Watson. Many history buffs and those interested in the events will have a lot to learn by just traveling around the area.
Those trying to forget about the hustle and bustle of the city will love the breath of fresh air and scenic views that Summerton provides. Short drive west of the town is Congaree National Park and Manchester State Forest. Both are great locations for hiking, bird watching, and camping that are open to the public all year long. The area also has hotel resorts near Santee and Lake Marion, where people can enjoy a couple of rounds of golf. Of course, the nearby lake is great for fishing, with multiple fishing charters located nearby. Kayak and boat rentals are also available for the more experienced anglers. With Summerton being an hour’s drive away from both Columbia and Charleston, this hidden gem is the perfect getaway for some quick relaxation.
Being the site for many fishing tournaments both for amateurs and professionals, Lake Marion is where every angler should visit at least once. It is the largest lake in South Carolina, covering around 110,000 acres of swampy marshland. Its ecosystem thrives with plenty of food for game fish as it’s filled with weedy patches of vegetation. Most known for its crappie and bass(largemouth, striped, and white), the lake also has an abundance of catfish (blue, flathead, white, and channel), fly fishing, bottom fishing, trolling, and drift fishing are all viable techniques to use in Lake Marion.
Another large lake in the area is the man-made Lake Moultrie. It is the third-largest lake in the state, covering around 60,000 acres. This lake is mainly composed of clear, open waters best suited for fly fishing than Lake Marion. Its deeper average depth makes it a great place to fish using weighted lures. Since both adjacent lakes are connected via the Santee River, many of the fish in Lake Marion can be found here, except for bowfin and bluegill. Its clear waters also make it perfect for kayaking while admiring the beauty of rural South Carolina.
Whether it’s trying your hand at fishing in Lake Marion or lazily exploring the waters of Lake Moultrie, there’s lots of fish to catch. Anglers of varying skill levels and experience will be able to enjoy everything Summerton has to offer. There are also various ways to catch fish, including chartering a boat, bringing one yourself, kayaking, using a paddleboard, and fishing on land. If driving to the bigger lakes isn’t your thing then, hopping on over to Santee river or any of its tributaries can also give a great fishing experience.
From Native American burial mounds to the well-preserved Fort Watson, Summerton is home to a place closely tied to the founding of the United States of America. Many houses of the early European settlers are still standing today. The Harvey Belser, Grayson, John McCuen Rowe homes are open to public viewing, providing an insightful look into the early American lifestyle.