Jamestown to McConnell's Landing
This section of the Santee River begins at the highway 41 bridge about a mile and a half from the intersection of highway 41 and 17 A in Jamestown. A suitable takeout would be McConnels Landing about 9 and a half miles down stream. It will be necessary to position a vehicle at McConnell's Landing or to make arrangements for someone to pick you up at that location.
This is a pretty section of river to paddle. It ranges from about 50 yards in width to over 100 yards in different sections. It is for the most part uninhabited and bordered by both high ground as well as occasional cypress swamps. Much of it is bordered on the right side by the Francis Marion National Forest where primitive camping is permitted. You will commonly see deer, wild turkey, bald eagles, and numerous wading birds. Of particular interest on this trip is Battery Warren, sitting on a high bluff on the right bank about a half mile beyond the mouth of Echaw Creek and a mile before reaching your takout point at McConnels Landing. Battery Warren was a Confederate fort built to protect the railroad bridge at that location during the Civil War. There are raised platforms on the site overlooking the original site as well as placards documenting the fort. It is recommended that you take a break at this site and enjoy a bit of the history as well as the lovely view of the river from the raised platform. A leisurly 30 minute paddle from Battery Warren will bring you to McConnels Landing on your right. It is a concrete ramp with plenty of parking as well as a cleared camping area adjacent to the landing.
Directions to McConnell's Landing