The two-mile Tate's Trail begins at the Lake Bee Recreation Area and makes a loop around Lake 12, then on to the trail's end at Martin's Lake.

Though portions of the state's sandhills belt were nearly fallow by the early 20th century, creation of the Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge in 1939 helped restore the environment. It also allowed for new outdoor recreational opportunities such as the easy, two-mile Tate's Trail. You will begin this out and back trail at the Lake Bee Recreation Area and follow white blazes for a loop around Lake 12, then on to the trail's end at Martin's Lake. At Martin's Lake you will find a photo blind and a lookout tower that offers a panoramic view of the area. The Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge is primarily geared to provide habitats for migrating waterbirds, especially in the winter. However, it is also home to the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker. Facilities are available at the Lake Bee Recreation Area. Camping is available at Cheraw State Park and Lee State Park.

Directions: From Columbia, Follow Interstate 20 to US 521 (Exit 98). Turn left (north), drive into Camden and turn right onto US 1. Follow US 1 for 29 miles, pass through McBee and turn left (north) onto SC 145. Drive approximately five miles and turn left (west) into Lake Bee Recreation Area. Once in the recreation area, turn left (south) and go to the picnic area and the trailhead.

Distance: 2 miles

Difficulty: Easy

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