Fort Watson and Santee Indian Mound

This outpost was built by the British on a Santee Indian mound at least 30 feet high. Gen. Francis Marion, the Swamp Fox, and Light Horse Harry Lee laid siege to the post April 15-23, 1781, by erecting a tower of logs under the cover of night enabling them to fire into the British stockade. This brought about the surrender of the fort cutting off the main British supply line to Camden, forcing Lord Rawdon to withdraw from that position. Gateway to Swamp Fox Murals Trail in Summerton, Paxville, Manning & Turbeville, I-95, Exit 108 to Exit 135.

From an observation point at the top of a massive 30-ft-tall Indian mound, visitors can get a panoramic view of Santee Cooper and the countryside. Santee Indian Mound and Santee National Wildlife Refuge make a historic and adventurous place to visit for hiking, biking and birding.