If you followed the old rivers of South Carolina all the way to the coast, you’d come across at least 12 state parks.
The Catawba River at Landsford Canal State Park
In addition to being great places to camp and picnic, parks alongside rivers provide views to some of the best natural beauty in South Carolina. For those who like to paddle, there are also canoe and kayak drops at most of these parks.
There's no better way to explore state park rivers than by boat!
This page is designed to help you get on the water at some of our river parks. South Carolina State Parks have river access at seven different locations, each one unique in its river habitat:
In the upstate, Landsford Canal (Catawba River) and Musgrove Mill (Enoree River) offer paddling adventures on piedmont rivers, with some shoals and rapids. (may be able to link “shoals and rapids” to photo examples) Aiken, Colleton, Givhans Ferry (Edisto River), Lee(Lynches River) and Little Pee Dee(Little Pee Dee River) are in the coastal range and offer serene paddling on blackwater rivers. Each location offers a different experience and each experience changes with the seasons. But, how do we get started? First, of course, you need a boat. If you don’t own one, you can rent canoes at Aiken, or work through an outfitter on the lower Edisto River parks. The Edisto River website will give you information on rentals and special events on this stretch of scenic river.
If you already own a boat you are ready to go; or are you? You may need to ask yourself a few questions before heading out for that paddling destination.
How long or far do you want to paddle? Some parks have managed trails that have put-ins and take-outs within park boundaries: Landsford Canal, Lee, and Aiken, while the others offer single launches to either arrive there or begin there. Always begin by talking to someone that has paddled the section you want to go on, and the best start is a Park Ranger! Many of us paddle these sections as part of our jobs and help to maintain them for your enjoyment. Your trip length and time can be very flexible from a quick aerobic paddle upstream and back (advantage: great workout and you don’t need to have two vehicles for pickup and drop off) or a several day camping trip to enjoy all this river has to offer.
What are your river conditions like today? Call or e-mail the park for current conditions that may affect whether you paddle or not. Utilize the internet. Many rivers have flow gauges that can tell you what the river is doing at that time. This is great to check on the day of your paddle, but won’t tell you what may be happening in the near future. So always check your weather. It is important to remember that rivers like the Catawba are dam controlled and can change daily with no warning while others like the Edisto and Lynches are free flowing and subject to big rain events. Also, it is good to remember that the closer you are to the headwaters of free flowing rivers or dams, the more sudden the levels of water can change. Never paddle in flood events! Not only are many rapids more dangerous, but high water can move trees along the bank causing them to fall and either block your route or float downstream with you! Are your skills comparable to your river choice? We can tell you if your boat is correct for this section, if your safety gear is suitable, but we know nothing about your skill level. You need to be aware of all hazards in the river to make sure you are capable of paddling it safely. We always recommend that any time you paddle a section for the first time, do it with someone that has experience on that section. That way you can know about problems on the river before you encounter them. It is always recommended to take simple first aid courses and some basic paddling courses if you plan on doing this a lot. Places like your local YMCA offer first aid classes, while others offer canoeing safety courses. Moving water affects the way you paddle around, over or through obstacles that don’t exist or are easily avoided on open lakes. Paddling organizations like the Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail offer canoeing safety courses that will prepare you for just about any problem you may encounter on the river. These are fun and very informative venues that can make you comfortable while exploring our scenic waterways.
Is your boat suitable for your plans? Different boats provide different services. Some are good for a few hours in moving water, while others are for weekend trips packed full of your necessary equipment. Canoes are great all-round boats as they can carry several people (check manufacturers recommendations) and gear for quick trips or overnighters. Sit-on-top kayaks are great summer boats for short trips but don’t do well in the winter as the paddlers will get wet. Recreational kayaks do well in small shoals and rapids, but are not recommended in big water. For class 2 and above whitewater, you will need a whitewater kayak or canoe designed for that type water. With the large selection of boats on the market, you need to decide what your most common paddling ventures will be to decide which boat works best for you. Outfitter stores usually carry a wide selection and have knowledgeable staff to help you pick the right boat for your adventures. Exploring a State Park by its waterways is one of many ways to enjoy and appreciate the beauty South Carolina has to offer. But, as with any outdoor activity, there are risks and our primary goal is to offer these services an a safe and enjoyable setting. So please don’t be afraid to “pick our brains” and help you feel comfortable in one of the fastest growing outdoor markets going. Many park employees enjoy the same activities that you do. Many of us have been doing this for years and know that your enjoyment of the experience will only improve if you know all you need to know BEFORE getting on the water. So come explore all of the State Park rivers! You will find something new around every turn.