Auto tour route. Wildlife observation and photography. Hunting and fishing. Most visitors are interested in seeing wildlife. Depending on the time of year, there are opportunities to observe a variety of different species.
Deer are abundant, even around the visitors center.
Santee NWR is an excellent area for bird watching. One of the species that attracts visitors is the Painted Bunting. The opportunity to see an alligator is best on the Pine Island and Cuddo units. The Dingle Pond unit is a unique Carolina Bay wetland. Camping is not permitted on the refuge.