Dreher Island

Are pets allowed in the camper cabins at Dreher Island?

Beginning January 1, 2020, pets will be allowed in camper cabins 2-5 at Dreher Island. Pets are not allowed in the villas or the villa areas. Pets are allowed in most other outdoor areas provided they are kept under physical restraint or on a leash not longer than six feet. Owners will be asked to remove noisy or dangerous pets or pets that threaten or harass wildlife. Pets are not allowed in the camper cabin area prior to January 1, 2020.  Click here to view our Pet Policy Agreement.

Is swimming allowed at the park?

Yes, you may swim anywhere along the shoreline in Lake Murray.  There is no designated swimming area with lifeguards.  All swimming your own risk.  We do not allow swimming from the bridges, boat docks, or boat ramps.

Is fishing permitted at the park?

You may fish anywhere from the shoreline at the park.  We do not allow fishing from our bridges, boat docks or boat ramps.  You must have a valid S.C. fishing license in order to fish in Lake Murray.

Are fishing licenses sold at the park?

Yes, you may purchase a S.C. fishing license at the park.  We only accept cash or check for these transactions.  For more information on fishing licenses, please visit the SCDNR website.

Is fishing bait sold at the park?

Bait for sell at the park includes:  large and small shiners, worms, artificial lures and terminal tackle.

Is gasoline sold at the park?

Mid-grade, 89 Octane, ethanol-free gasoline is available for purchase at our boat-ramp area.  In-water refueling is available.

Is wi-fi available at the park?

We have complimentary wi-fi at our park Visitor Center (Tackle Shop). Please check at the Visitor Center for password information.

While staying at Dreher Island is there anywhere to leave a boat trailer?

There is plenty of overflow parking that will accommodate a boat trailer. Park staff will be able to identify such locations for you when you arrive.  Please see a ranger or other park staff. 

May I bring my golf cart to the park?

Golf carts are permitted on the park.  Golf carts must be operated by a licensed driver, must stay on paved roads, must obey normal traffic laws and must be licensed and insured.  You cannot operate a golf cart at night on the park.

Are boats, canoes or kayaks available for rent from the park?

The park does not do any on-site boat rentals of any kind.  However, if you ask park staff they will provide you with a list of local vendors who do rent boats, canoes and/or kayaks.

What amenities are included in the park villas?

Each villa includes: bed and bath linens, cooking utensils, coffee maker, microwave oven, dishwasher, fireplace, upstairs balcony, screened in porch, 42” color satellite TV and DVD/ VHS player.

We have someone coming to visit us at the park, but they are not staying the night. Will they have to pay to enter the park?

If your visitors are entering the park and not staying overnight,  they are required to pay the park admission.  Admission is $3 for adults, $1.50 for SC senior citizens, $1 children age 6-15 and children 5 and under are admitted free.

What type of wildlife can I expect to see at Dreher Island?

The park is home to a wide variety of animals observable in their natural environment.  These include: white-tailed deer, grey squirrels, egrets, osprey, purple martins, Canadian geese and mallard ducks.  Aquatic species found in Lake Murray include:  hard/softshell turtles, striped bass, large/smallmouth bass, bream, crappie and catfish.  Please note: there are no alligators in Lake Murray.

Where is the park’s Ultimate Outsider stamp located?

Our Ultimate Outsider stamp is located just outside the tackle shop in a brown box.

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.