Chester

How close to the the lake are the standard campsites?

The standard campsites are located on a 25-site, teardrop-shaped loop. The bottom of the teardrop is closest to the lake, but the closest site is still over 100 yards away from the water.

Which campsites are the most private?

No one site is any more or less private than the other.  The sites are in a teardrop-shaped loop encircling the comfort station. This campground layout allows everyone similar access to the park facilities.

What are the rules for renting boats at Chester State Park?

Fishing boats are available for rent from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily at the park office. Boats may be rented for $10/half day. Life jackets and paddles are available if you do not have your own. Personal electric trolling motors may be attached to park fishing boats at no additional charge. All boats, personal or park-owned, must be off the lake by sunset.

Are personal boats allowed on the park lake?

Chester State Park has a public boat ramp located next to the rental boathouse. Personal boats are allowed on the lake as long as they are hand, or electric trolling motor powered. Gas engines are not permitted.

Is swimming allowed at the park?

Chester State Park is a park designed and built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930’s. The man-made lake in the park, built by the CCC, was never designed to accommodate swimming. Swimming is not allowed.

How late can we stay in the park if not camping?

The day-use areas of the park, including the picnic shelters and lake access, are available for public use, daily until sunset. The community building may be used after sunset if the building is reserved and park officials are notified of this intended use. An additional hourly rate for after-hours usage will be charged.

What are the fishing rules for Chester State Park?

Standard South Carolina fishing rules, regulations and limits enforced by SC DNR apply. Anyone over the age of 16 is required to have a valid SC fishing license. Artificial bait & live bait (including worms, crickets, & minnows) are allowed.

What do we do with our trash in the day-use area?

Chester State Park is asking all visitors to pack-out what they pack-in. All users of picnic shelters, community buildings, all campers, boaters, and all individual visitors are asked to please pack-out their trash or place it in the centrally-located waste dumpsters on the park.

Are motorized vehicles or bicycles allowed on the trail?

Caney Fork Falls, the only trail at Chester State Park, is a 1.3-mile “there-and-back” hiking trail that starts at the boathouse, wraps around the lake bank, and ends at the spillway. This trail is for foot traffic only.  Motorized vehicles and bikes are not allowed on the trail.

Where is the park’s Ultimate Outsider stamp located?

Our Ultimate Outsider stamp is located at the park kiosk near the Ranger Station.

Where can I find a list of state park rules and regulations?

You can find the South Carolina State Park rules and regulations, along with campground rules and regulations at this link.

For more general, statewide frequently asked questions, please click here.