Paddle through ancient cypress swamps where the water runs the color of dark tea and the silence is absolute. The blackwater creeks of Francis Marion are among the most atmospheric paddling in the Southeast.
The premier bass tournament launch on Lake Hartwell. Wide ramp, massive parking, and access to nationally recognized spotted bass fishing. Kayak anglers welcome.
Tidal creek paddle with dolphins. Murrells Inlet is the seafood capital of South Carolina and one of the best places in the state to paddle with bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.
A 40-foot waterfall visible within 2 minutes of the parking area, plus 4 miles of river trails with swimming holes on the Chauga River. Great add-on for the Walhalla area.
Various (beach walk, lighthouse climb, nature trail)
Half day to full day
South Carolina’s most visited state park. A 5,000-acre barrier island with a working lighthouse you can climb, miles of undeveloped beach, and a maritime forest that feels genuinely wild.
Where the Sandhills meet the Coastal Plain. The collision of ecosystems creates a landscape unlike anywhere else in SC. Spanish moss and mountain laurel grow side by side. Excellent hiking and camping.
56,000 acres along the SC-Georgia border. Paddle into coves that feel miles from civilization on a calm morning. The Twelve Mile Creek and Eighteen Mile Creek arms near Clemson offer sheltered water with forested shoreline.
A 140-acre millpond in the Sandhills with cypress trees growing from the water. Kayaking and fishing in a landscape that looks like a painting. One of the most photogenic paddles in the Midlands.
