South Carolina’s lakes and reservoirs are all man-made, providing hydroelectric power and offering endless opportunities for exploration.
No matter your preference—whether it’s a peaceful escape, a refreshing swim, or exciting outdoor activities—there’s a lake in South Carolina ready to deliver.
The state’s mild climate allows for year-round water activities, making it a perfect destination for fishing, boating, and swimming.
Anglers, in particular, will find plenty of action in these waters. Here are some of the best lakes in South Carolina where you can relax, explore, and enjoy nature.
1. Lake Marion (Santee)
Lake Marion, South Carolina’s largest lake, is part of the Santee Cooper Reservoir. It’s a top spot for fishing, with massive catfish, largemouth bass, and even alligators.
First-time visitors are advised to hire a fishing guide to navigate the lake’s stumpy bottom.
The lake’s 511-mile shoreline features marinas and campgrounds, perfect for a family getaway. Sparkleberry Swamp, located at the lake’s headwaters, offers a scenic kayaking experience through a submerged forest of cypress and tupelo trees.
2. Lake Moultrie (Moncks Corner)
North of Charleston, Lake Moultrie is part of the Santee Cooper Lakes. Its mix of cypress trees and swampy wilderness gives it a unique charm.
The lake is known for its large waves, caused by high winds due to its wide, open water. Fishing is popular here, but be mindful of alligators.
For safe swimming, head to Overton Beach Park. Campgrounds and lodges along the lake provide comfortable options for overnight stays.
3. Lake Jocassee (Salem)
Located in Oconee County, Lake Jocassee is surrounded by an undeveloped shoreline and fed by mountain springs and waterfalls.
The clear waters are ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming.
Devils Fork State Park offers access to the lake, with 20 lakeside villas available for rent. This pristine lake is a favorite for both relaxation and adventure.
4. Lake Murray (Columbia)
Lake Murray, located just west of Columbia, features 650 miles of shoreline. It’s a hub for water sports like water skiing, kneeboarding, and scuba diving.
Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting ospreys, while Bomb Island serves as a sanctuary for over a million Purple Martins during the summer.
The Lexington side of the lake has shallow waters, perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking.
5. Lake Thurmond (Clarks Hill)
Lake Thurmond, known as Clarks Hill Lake on the Georgia side, offers nearly 1,200 miles of shoreline.
Nearby Baker Creek State Park and Hamilton Branch State Park provide camping, swimming, and fishing opportunities.
The lake is known for its scenic views and abundant fish, making it a popular destination for anglers.
6. Lake Russell (Calhoun Falls)
Lake Russell, formed by the Savannah River, offers 500 miles of undeveloped shoreline shared with Georgia.
Its calm waters contain largemouth bass, crappie, bream, and catfish. Calhoun Falls State Park has 13 access points, including camping sites and areas for swimming and stargazing.
7. Lake Keowee (Seneca)
Lake Keowee, located in the Mountain Lakes region, has 300 miles of shoreline. It’s perfect for boating, jet skiing, and wakeboarding.
High Falls Park features a sandy beach and 10 waterfront campsites, ideal for a weekend getaway. Its clear waters and mountain views make it one of the state’s most beautiful lakes.
8. Lake Greenwood (Ninety Six)
Lake Greenwood is lined with waterfront communities and offers 34 miles of aquatic trails known as the Lake Greenwood Blueway.
The lake hosts the South Carolina Festival of Flowers Triathlon each June.
While there are no designated swimming areas, the lake is popular for boating and paddleboarding. Lake Greenwood State Park also features a historic rock wall from the World War II era.
9. Lake Hartwell (Fair Play)
Located on the South Carolina-Georgia border, Lake Hartwell has over 900 miles of shoreline and 15 day-use areas.
Ghost Island (or Cemetery Island) is home to the Harris Family burial ground, which remained in place when the lake was created.
The ruins of Andersonville, a town destroyed by a flood in the 1850s, are also submerged beneath the lake’s waters. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages 500 campsites around the lake.
10. Lake George Warren (Hampton)
Lake George Warren is part of Lake Warren State Park, known for its wetlands and woodlands.
The lake’s 200 accessible acres are great for fishing, with largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish among the common catches.
Visitors can also spot bald eagles and ospreys. The park has a smaller 2-acre fishing pond and several picnic shelters for family gatherings.
Whether you’re fishing, boating, or just enjoying the view, South Carolina’s lakes offer something for everyone.
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