Lakes Marion and Moultrie are at the heart of Santee Cooper Country, one of the state's most celebrated sports and recreational sites. More than 171,000 acres of water fill the basin comprising the lakes, supporting such species as striped bass, crappie, bream, catfish and largemouth bass. Marshes and fields teem with game birds and wildlife. Gardens brimming with flowers blanket the area - majestic swans glide the waters at Sumter's Iris Gardens, banks of roses are showcased during the annual Festival of Roses at Edisto Memorial Garden in Orangeburg, and a butterfly house and freshwater aquarium can be found at Cypress Garden near Monck's Corner. Golf rivals fishing as the area's best lure and many accommodations offer attractively priced package plans throughout the year.