Canoe Camping & Fishing in South Carolina

Campgrounds with canoe rentals and fishing grounds are available in South Carolina

South Carolina has plenty of recreational opportunities for water activities including canoeing and fishing. The state is home to a variety of fish species including trout and bass. Other activities like swimming and boating can be enjoyed in most South Carolina State Parks. Many scenic rivers and creeks are available to avid paddlers.

State Parks and Recreational Areas

Numerous state parks in South Carolina has camping facilities equipped with boat access for canoeing. Dreher Island State Recreation Area and Cheraw State Park has campgrounds for tent sites and RV sites. Both state parks offer boat access. You can paddle at Lake Murray in Dreher Island State Recreation Area or at Cheraw State Park's 300-acre Lake Juniper. Daily and hourly canoe rentals are available at Cheraw State Park.

Campgrounds

Campgrounds with picnic areas and other amenities are found throughout the state.

Camping amenities vary per campground. You can find many state parks that offer gravel sites with water and electric hookups. Other amenities may include shower and restroom facilities, picnic areas and BBQ grills. You can bring your own canoe or rent on-site.

Fishing

Fish for bass and catfish in South Carolina waters

While camping and canoeing, you can also fish in many of South Carolina lakes including Lake Greenwood, Lake Hartwell and Lake Jocassee. Areas like lake shores, riverbanks and numerous fishing piers are situated in many state parks and campgrounds. Lake Murray has several species of bass-like stripers and largemouth. Other species include bream, catfish, crappie and yellow perch. Lake Juniper contains healthy populations of catfish, bass and bream.

Outfitters

Sign up for a self-guided canoe trip from one of the many outfitters in the state. The Edisto River near Charleston is a black water river that is popular among many boaters. The river features cypress trees, sandy banks and a shallow bottom. The area is also a site for picnics and swimming. Carolina Heritage Outfitters offer day trips on the river (10 miles) that begin on the Edisto River Refuge. Tree house and tent camping are available along the route. Canoe day trip packages include all equipment and gear necessary along with safety orientation and transportation to the launch site.

Regulations

You must have a valid South Carolina fishing license to fish statewide. You can choose from different types including an annual fishing license, 14-day fishing license and a 7-day fishing license. Resident and non-resident licenses are available.

References

• South Carolina Parks: Dreher Island State Recreation Area
• Carolina Heritage Outfitters
• South Carolina Parks: Cheraw State Park

Resources

• South Carolina DNR: Fishing License