7 best places hunt in SC

By Harper M.

South Carolina offers diverse and abundant hunting opportunities, from the coastal marshes of the Lowcountry to the mountains of the Upstate. Hunters can pursue a wide range of game, including white-tailed deer, wild hogs, Eastern wild turkey, and waterfowl. As a hunter myself, I can vouch that these places will not let you down.

1. Santee Coastal Reserve

Located near McClellanville, the Santee Coastal Reserve is one of South Carolina’s premier areas for duck hunting. With nearly 24,000 acres of managed wetlands, hunters can find species like gadwall, teal, and wood ducks. It’s also home to deer, wild hogs, and small game. Access can be tricky due to the marshy terrain, but the experience is worth it.

2. Bear Island Wildlife Management Area

This 12,000-acre area in Colleton County is another excellent choice for waterfowl hunting. The mix of tidal marsh and freshwater impoundments attracts large flocks of ducks during the winter months. Bear Island also offers limited hunts for deer and small game. Because of its popularity, it’s best to plan early.

3. Wee Tee State Forest

Tucked away in Williamsburg and Georgetown Counties, the 18,000 acre Wee Tee State Forest offers great deer and hog hunting. The forest’s location along the Santee River provides thick cover and plenty of food sources for wildlife. It’s a quieter alternative for hunters who prefer less crowded public land.

4. Manchester State Forest

Covering more than 28,000 acres near Sumter, Manchester State Forest is a favorite among deer hunters. It has a mix of pine stands, hardwood bottoms, and open areas that attract many species. Some hunts here are by lottery, so hunters need to apply ahead of time through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources SCDNR.

5. Sumter National Forest

Stretching across much of the state’s Upstate region, Sumter National Forest offers a more rugged hunting experience. The forest is known for its deer and turkey hunting, with plenty of space for those who prefer to explore off the beaten path. It’s a good place for archery hunters who enjoy challenging terrain

6. Bonneau Ferry Wildlife Management Area

Located near Moncks Corner, Bonneau Ferry WMA is close to Charleston and offers easy access for Lowcountry hunters. The area provides opportunities for both waterfowl and deer hunting. With its mix of fields, forests, and wetlands, it’s a versatile place for hunters of all skill levels.

7. Belfast Wildlife Management Area

In Laurens and Newberry Counties, Belfast WMA covers around 4,700 acres of rolling hills and hardwood forests. It’s a solid option for deer and turkey hunting, especially for those in the Midlands or Upstate regions. Because it’s smaller than other WMAs, scouting early is key to finding the best spots.

To determine if my friends who hunt had any additional spots to suggest, I turned to Callahan B. He responded, "I hunt all around, but my favorite place is Orangeburg SC."

In conclusion, the list of South Carolina's best hunting grounds reveals a tapestry of distinct ecosystems, each attracting specific game. This diversity is what makes the state a true hunter's paradise, offering everything from the flooded timbers of the Pee Dee region for duck hunting to the forest ridges of Sumter National Forest favored by deer.