Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in Abbeville and Anderson counties in South Carolina, Lake Secession Wildlife Management Area encompasses over 8,367 acres of mixed hardwood and pine forests surrounding the 3,800-acre Lake Secession reservoir. Established primarily to conserve wildlife habitat and support outdoor recreation, the area features hardwood bottomlands, riverine wetlands, and uplands, creating a rich environment for a variety of species including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and numerous fish varieties. The lake itself, formed by a dam on the Rocky River, offers high-quality freshwater fishing with species such as largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Visitors can pursue a range of activities including hunting during designated seasons, boating and kayaking on the lake, hiking its informal trails, and wildlife photography. The area is managed by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, prioritizing sustainable outdoor use and habitat restoration. Its relatively undeveloped landscape provides a quiet natural retreat away from urban centers like Anderson and Abbeville. With public boat ramps and accessible shoreline areas, Lake Secession WMA attracts anglers and bird watchers, especially during waterfowl migration. While no large developed campgrounds exist on site, the surroundings offer dispersed camping and hunting camps in accordance with regulations. Overall, the Wildlife Management Area plays an important role in regional conservation and outdoor recreation, balancing habitat protection with access to nature-based activities.
