Expedition SC List

5 Rivers You Can Float Without a Guide

Not every river trip requires a guide, a shuttle, and a week of planning. These five SC rivers are calm, well-marked, and manageable for first-timers. Calm water, easy access, and simple logistics.
1

Saluda River, Columbia

Level 1

Outfitters handle the shuttle. Rent a tube or kayak, float downstream, get picked up. The easiest river experience in the state.

2

Edisto River at Aiken State Park

Level 1

1.7-mile marked canoe trail through a tree tunnel. The park rents canoes. Short, beautiful, and manageable.

4

Broad River above Columbia

Level 2

Mild shoals, sandy beaches, and forested banks. Need your own boat and shuttle but the river is forgiving.

5

Lake Murray cove paddling

Level 1

Not a river, but the coves on Lake Murray are calm, sheltered, and require no current-reading skills. Dreher Island SP ramp is the easiest launch.