Whether you’re chasing trout in pristine waters, launching a kayak at sunrise, or spreading a picnic blanket by the shore, these Upstate lakes prove that fun is always just a splash away.
Lake Hartwell
Lake Hartwell State Park, 19138-A State Highway 11 S., Fair Play SouthCarolinaParks.com/Lake-Hartwell
An angler’s paradise, Lake Hartwell boasts 56,000 acres filled with three species of black bass, striped and hybrid bass, largemouth, crappie, bream, and catfish. Swimmers, boaters and campers love Hartwell, too. Access is available via multiple public boat ramps, piers, local parks, Lake Hartwell State Park and Sadlers Creek State Park.
Lake Jocassee
Devils Fork State Park, 161 Holcombe Circle, Salem SouthCarolinaParks.com/Devils-Fork
This is a stunningly beautiful mountain lake in the Jocassee Gorges, with 7,500 acres of clear, cool water, hidden waterfalls and the Carolinas’ best trout fishing. Jocassee is a favorite for local kayakers, paddleboarders and scuba divers. The only public access is via Devils Fork State Park.
Lake Keowee
Keowee-Toxaway State Park, 108 Residence Drive, Sunset SouthCarolinaParks.com/Keowee-Toxaway
This is a water-lover’s playground, with 18,500 acres for boating, skiing and swimming. Fishermen always leave happy thanks to an abundance of catfish, crappie, bass and bream. Access is via various public boat ramps, piers and parks, including Keowee-Toxaway State Park.
Broadway Lake
McFalls Landing, 1625 Broadway Lake, Anderson AndersonCountySC.org/Parks
This lake is small in size but big on fun, with 300 acres of fresh, clear water for fishing, swimming and boating. McFalls Landing includes an event venue, swimming area and boat ramp.
Lake Bowen
Anchor Park, 8515 State Highway 9, Inman SpartanburgWater.org/Lakes-Bowen
This sparkling 1,534-acre lake, part of Spartanburg Water’s reservoir system, provides recreational activities like fishing and boating. Public access is via Anchor Park, which includes a picnic pavilion, playground and boat ramp.
Lake Cooley
Lake Cooley Park, 100 Cooley Dock Road, Inman SpartanburgParks.org/Facilities
This delightful 330-acre lake, part of the SJWD Water District, features lovely mountain views. Motorized watercraft are allowed with up to 15 horsepower engines. Public access is via Lake Cooley Park, which includes an ADA-accessible dock and kayak launch, boat ramp, four picnic shelters, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and an outdoor education center.
Lake Greenwood
Lake Greenwood, 302 State Park Road, Ninety Six SouthCarolinaParks.com/Lake-Greenwood
This 11,400-acre lake is popular for fishing, swimming, water skiing and boating. Lake Greenwood State Park provides rods and reels for use via the Tackle Loaner Program, sponsored by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. In addition to the state park, there are four public boat ramps and several piers.
Lake Placid
Paris Mountain State Park, 2401 State Park Road, Greenville SouthCarolinaParks.com/Paris-Mountain
This 13-acre lake located within Paris Mountain State Park features a swimming area as well as rental pedal boats, kayaks and canoes. An easy-walking, mostly-level nature trail encircles the water.
Lake Robinson
Verne Smith Park, 1544 Mays Bridge Road, Greer GreerCPW.com/Lakes-Recreation
This scenic, 800-acre reservoir is owned by Greer Commission of Public Works. The pristine lake allows small, motorized boats as well as canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. Public access is via J. Verne Smith Park, which includes a boat ramp, fishing piers, pavilion and picnic area.
Lake Tom Craig
Croft State Park, 450 Croft State Park Road, Spartanburg SouthCarolinaParks.com/Croft
A 165-acre watershed within Croft State Park offers some of the region’s best fishing. It’s a popular spot for camping and birdwatching, too. Fishing boats, canoes, kayaks and standup paddleboards are available for rent; private boats are permitted but restricted to trolling motors.
