When the Carolina sun starts to shine, there’s no better way to beat the heat than a lake escape. South Carolina is dotted with sparkling freshwater gems, each offering its own slice of serenity and adventure. Whether you’re craving heart-racing fun, lazy days with your toes in the water or even overnight stays, here are five lakes worth packing up the cooler for.
5 Great Lake Escapes
Just outside of Columbia, thrill-seekers can test their wakeboarding skills or slow down with a sunset cruise to Bomb Island, home to roughly 1 million roosting purple martins each summer. Stay at Dreher Island State Park, where spacious lakeside villas and cozy camper cabins await.
Lake Marion
Known as the state’s "inland sea," Lake Marion is a paradise for anglers. Cast a line for striped bass and catfish at Santee State Park or Relaxed Retreat at Carolina King in Summerton, where the fishing resort and marina are made for water-centric getaways.
Lake Greenwood
This quiet hideaway offers a perfect balance of nature and recreation. Pitch a tent or park an RV at Lake Greenwood State Park, where campers can picnic under shady trees, go boating or fishing, birdwatch and meander the 4-mile scenic shoreline trail.
Lake Keowee
In the Upcountry, rent a Jet Ski or pontoon boat, then fill up at a lakefront restaurant like the Cabana at the Lighthouse. For a bird’s-eye view of the lake, don’t miss the exhilarating Upstate Zipline at Keowee-Toxaway State Park in Sunset.
Lake Jocassee
Accessible from Devils Fork State Park, Lake Jocassee is a breathtaking wonder at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With unbelievably clear water, scuba divers gear up at Lake Jocassee Dive Shop in Salem to explore its depths. Above the surface, stand-up paddleboard or rent a boat to find waterfalls tumbling into the lake.
