Three State Park Canoe Trails Worth Exploring
From quiet blackwater rivers to sun-dappled cypress swamps, South Carolina’s state parks offer some of the most unique paddling experiences in the Southeast. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing float or a day-long river journey, our parks are home to beginner-friendly routes and hidden gems alike.
Here are three must-visit canoe and kayak trails to get you started:
1. South Fork Edisto River Trail
📍 Aiken State Park
Distance: 1.7 miles (point-to-point)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Paddle a stretch of the scenic South Fork Edisto River without committing to a multi-day expedition. At Aiken State Park, you can enjoy a manageable 1.7-mile float between two canoe landings, winding through a shady corridor of trees that forms a natural tunnel over the water.
This section of the river is narrower than the lower Main Stem, offering a more intimate paddling experience. Trail signs guide your way through a landscape shaped by both ancient ocean movement and the natural rhythms of the river swamp.
While the park is popular with anglers and campers, paddlers get a bonus: a cleared canoe path through the heart of this unique environment. Some paddling experience is recommended, especially when river conditions vary.
Click here for more information.
Find the park map here.
2. Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail
📍 Colleton and Givhans Ferry State Parks
Distance: Up to 62 miles total | 23 miles from Colleton to Givhans Ferry
Difficulty: Varies by section
For a longer adventure, paddle a portion of the Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail (ERCK), a 62-mile route along the Main Stem of the Edisto. The most popular sections connect Colleton State Park and Givhans Ferry State Park, offering approximately 23 miles of paddling through one of the longest free-flowing blackwater rivers in North America.
Expect a quiet, scenic trip past cypress knees, wildlife sightings, and riverbanks shaped by centuries of flow. This route is ideal for more experienced paddlers looking for a day-long float (7–9 hours depending on current), or as part of a multi-day trip with campsites and access points along the way.
Click here for more information.
3. N.R. Goodale Canoe Trail
📍 Goodale State Park
Distance: 3 miles (out-and-back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Looking for a serene paddle surrounded by towering bald cypress trees? The N.R. Goodale Canoe Trail starts on Adams Mill Pond and continues into Pine Tree Creek, forming a peaceful 3-mile out-and-back route that is perfect for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Follow the white trail markers as you glide through still waters shaded by dense forest. Keep an eye out for great blue herons, turtles, and maybe even an alligator. When you reach the downed logs near the creek’s end, simply turn around and retrace your path for a full experience.
Click here for more information.
Tips Before You Go
-
Check conditions before paddling, especially after rain or during low water levels. USGS Daily Streamflow Conditions
-
Wear a life jacket at all times.
-
Bring bug spray, sunscreen, and water
-
Watch for signs along the river or creek to help you navigate your route.
-
Rentals are available at some parks—check individual park pages for availability and hours.
Share Your Paddle
Have an amazing photo or video from your paddling trip? Use #SCStateParks and your content could be featured! You can also upload your photos for us to use across South Carolina State Parks' Marketing by using the Public Uploader and agreeing to the Terms & Conditions. We love seeing our parks through your lens!
Ready to Hit the Water?
From short scenic paddles to day-long river journeys, South Carolina State Parks offer unforgettable experiences for every kind of paddler. Plan your next trip today and discover the peaceful beauty that awaits around each bend.