LAKE WATEREE STATE PARK
Lake Wateree is one of South Carolina?s premier fishing and boating destinations, and Lake Wateree State Recreation Area provides ideal access to the 21-mile long, 13,700-acre reservoir.
The park?s serene setting on the lake?s Desportes Island just off U.S. 21 near Interstate 77 in the northern Midlands/Lower Piedmont makes it convenient to the Columbia, Camden and Rock Hill areas and an easy drive from much of the rest of the state.
The 238-acre park?s offerings include a tackle shop/park store with refueling dock and public boat ramp. A large population of crappie, bream, largemouth bass, catfish and later, striped bass, has made the lake a popular fishing spot since the dam was built in 1919 (making it one of the state?s oldest).
The park?s wooded, lakeside campground has 72 sites, including many that can accommodate large RVs and all with water and electrical service. Day visitors and campers also can enjoy the numerous picnic tables, playground and the mile-long nature trail through the quiet woods.
South Carolina offers a variety of Park Passports. You can read more about the South Carolina Park Passports and order online by visiting the
SOUTH CAROLINA PARK PASSPORTS web page.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bike Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingWater/Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
1. Lake Wateree State Park offers a designated swimming area for visitors.
2. Lifeguards are not present, so swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is allowed during park hours from dawn to dusk.
4. The lake's calm waters make it suitable for swimmers of all levels.
5. There are no specific lanes or pools; you can freely enjoy the open water areas in the lake.
Anglers can enjoy fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, bream and catfish. Boat ramps are available for easy water access.
Lake Wateree State Park is located near Blythewood, Camden and Elgin
Lake Wateree State Park offers picnic tables and grills, perfect for a family outing. Enjoy lakeside views while you eat.
While exploring the park, one can enjoy a leisurely bike ride on paved roads. However, there are no designated trails.
Biking off-road is not recommended due to lack of marked paths and potential for environmental damage.
Ensure you adhere to safety measures while biking; helmets are strongly advised as terrain may be uneven at times.
Remember that bikes must yield right-of-way to pedestrians and vehicles in all circumstances within this recreational area.
Cyclists should also respect wildlife habitats by sticking strictly to established routes during their rides.
Nighttime cycling isn't advisable because lighting conditions aren't optimal throughout the park's grounds after sunset.
The park offers birding enthusiasts a variety of species to spot, including ospreys and bald eagles. There are numerous trails ideal for birdwatching with diverse habitats attracting different birds. Birders can also enjoy the annual Great Backyard Bird Count event held in February.
General Directions: 15 miles east of Winnsboro off US 21 on River Rd and 11 miles off I-77.
Driving Directions: On I-77, take exit 41, follow secondary 41 N. to stop sign at Hwy 21. Turn left and go approximately 2-3 mi. to the first paved road on the rt. Turn rt. on Rd. 101 (River Rd.) The park is 5.5 mi. on the left.