Lake Marion, the largest lake in South Carolina, is the location of Santee State Park and Santee National Wildlife Refuge. Wonder at the beauty of this habitat and the variety of wildlife that thrives just south of Sumter. A keen eye may find some indigenous wildlife, including fox squirrels, striped bass and even alligators. Closer to home are the Swan Lake Iris Gardens. Here you can witness the splendor of an abundance of flora, including Japanese iris, camellias, azaleas and lilies. These gardens are also the home of eight different species of swan, including the Trumpeter, the Whistler and the Black Australian swans. For additional opportunities to bird watch—and perhaps enjoy fishing or boating—visit Poinsett State Park, about 20 miles southwest of Sumter. There are a number of hiking, biking and equestrian trails here as well. A tour of this park will reveal rustic cabins and pre-revolutionary grist mill ruins. Also make a stop at the Poinsett Bombing Range, located just south of Shaw Air Force Base. Here you can watch real-world Air Force training, as fighter pilots practice dropping bombs. This range is open to the public Monday through Friday.
Another relaxing diversion for your family is an afternoon at the Aquatics Center. The average Sumter summer temperature reaches close to 90 degrees, so cool off using the swim lanes, pool slide or wade pool. Swimming lessons are available. At the Sumter County Gallery of Art, you can peruse the traditional and contemporary artwork from locally and nationally recognized artists in three separate galleries. Group tours are available, and art classes are offered to children and adults year round.
Enjoy the small-town feel of Sumter along with the conveniences of a larger city. Make your reservations at one of the Sumter, SC hotels from the selection above. Book today and save!