Lakes & Rivers in South Carolina

Lakes & Rivers in South Carolina
South Carolina is known for its collegiate Gamecocks, longtime U.S. Sen. Strom Thurmond and top-notch golf at Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head. But it's also a great place for those who love the outdoors. Take a walk along Thurmond Lake or hike alongside the Edisto River.

J. Strom Thurmond Lake

Named after the longtime U.S. senator and former governor of South Carolina, Thurmond Lake was named along with the local dam and highway atop the dam in 1987. The lake borders Georgia. Enjoy hiking, fishing, water sports and picnic areas. One of the lake's trails is at Catfish Peninsula, a 6.5-mile set of trails that surrounds the 1,000-plus acre peninsula. Ten trail roads are featured.

Lake Wateree

Lake Wateree is more than 13,000 acres. It was created in 1920 by the damming of the Wateree River. Owned and managed by Duke Power, it's surrounded by Fairfield, Kershaw and Lancaster counties. The lake features fresh-water fishing including catfish, crappie and bass. With more than 242 miles of shoreline, it features a bird refuge and state recreation area. The lake is just 30 miles northeast of Interstate 77 and Columbia, South Carolina. The recreation area features a 100-year old picnic area and 72-site campground. A 1-mile hiking trail is also available.

Edisto River

Edisto River is located throughout 12 counties of southern South Carolina. It's considered one of the longest "blackwater" streams, The term "blackwater" refers to the water possessing tannic acids from trees and vegetation along the river banks. The river is used for kayaking and canoe trips throughout the year. The river's Canoe and Kayak Trail Commission holds guided trips year round.

Article Written By Timothy Bodamer

Tim Bodamer is a freelance writer based in Seminole, Florida. He attended Edinboro Univerity of Pennsylvania where he studied journalism. He has 15 years of writing experience and specializes in sports, business and general interest topics.

Write for Trails.com
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