Best Kayaking Places in South Carolina: 2025 Complete Paddler's Guide

By: Dave Samuel

Updated On: August 3, 2025

Last April, I watched the sun rise over the ACE Basin while paddling through glass-calm waters, surrounded by nothing but cypress trees and the occasional gator eyeing me from the banks. That moment – coffee still warm in my thermos, mist rising off the water – reminded me why South Carolina has become my favorite paddling destination on the East Coast.

After 12 years of exploring every navigable waterway from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coast, I've discovered that the Palmetto State offers something most paddlers don't expect: incredible diversity. Where else can you run Class IV rapids in the morning and paddle alongside dolphins by sunset?

South Carolina's 3,000 miles of coastline, 11,000 miles of rivers and streams, and countless lakes create a paddler's paradise that stays accessible year-round. I've tested fishing kayaks in Lake Marion's stumpy waters, navigated my touring kayak through Charleston's historic waterways, and even attempted (key word: attempted) to surf my whitewater boat in Myrtle Beach's breakers.

This guide covers my 17 favorite South Carolina kayaking spots – from hidden gems only locals know about to world-famous destinations that draw paddlers from across the globe. Whether you're planning a multi-day expedition or just want a peaceful afternoon paddle, I'll show you exactly where to go, when to visit, and what gear you'll need.

Quick Comparison: Top South Carolina Kayaking Destinations

Location	Best For	Skill Level	Season	Key Feature
Devils Fork State Park	Scenery	Beginner	Year-round	Crystal clear water
Chattooga River	Whitewater	Advanced	Mar-Oct	Class IV rapids
Congaree National Park	Wildlife	Intermediate	Spring/Fall	Old-growth forest
Hilton Head Island	Families	Beginner	Year-round	Dolphin watching
ACE Basin	Photography	All levels	Oct-May	Pristine wilderness
Lake Murray	Fishing	Beginner	Year-round	Striped bass
Waccamaw River	Multi-day trips	Intermediate	Spring/Fall	Blackwater paddling

Essential Gear for South Carolina Paddling

Before we dive into locations, let me share what's always in my South Carolina paddling kit. The state's diverse conditions – from mountain streams to tidal marshes – require some specific gear considerations.

For any South Carolina paddle, you'll need a properly fitted PFD (I swear by the NRS Chinook for its pocket storage and comfort during long paddles). Don't forget sun protection – the southern sun is brutal, especially on the water. A good paddle leash saved my favorite carbon fiber paddle more than once in tidal currents.

Bug spray is non-negotiable from April through October. I learned this the hard way during a sunset paddle in the Santee Delta – came back looking like I had chicken pox. For navigation in the maze-like coastal marshes, download offline maps on your phone or bring a waterproof GPS. Many of these areas have no cell service.

The 17 Best Kayaking Spots in South Carolina

1. Devils Fork State Park - The Jewel of the Upstate

I'll never forget my first paddle on Lake Jocassee at Devils Fork State Park. The water was so clear I could see my shadow on the bottom 20 feet below. This man-made reservoir in the northwest corner of the state offers some of the most pristine paddling in the Southeast.

Why It's Special: Lake Jocassee stays cold and crystal clear year-round thanks to mountain streams feeding it. The 300-foot gorge walls and hidden waterfalls (including the stunning Laurel Fork Falls) make this feel more like paddling in the Pacific Northwest than the South.

Best Launch: Devils Fork State Park boat ramp (GPS: 34.9528° N, 82.9464° W) Distance Options: 2-15 miles depending on route Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate Best Season: April-October (though hardcore paddlers love the solitude of winter)

Insider Tip: Launch early (before 8 AM) to have the lake to yourself and catch the mist rising off the water. The northwestern shoreline offers the most dramatic scenery and protected paddling on windy days.

Gear Needed: A dry bag for cameras is essential – you'll want to capture these views. Water stays around 65°F even in summer, so consider a light wetsuit for extended paddles.

2. Chattooga River - Whitewater Paradise

The Chattooga isn't just a river; it's a rite of passage for Southeastern whitewater paddlers. Made famous by the movie "Deliverance," this Wild and Scenic River offers everything from gentle Class II floats to heart-stopping Class V drops.

Sections Breakdown:

Section II: Perfect for beginners, 7.5 miles of Class I-II water
Section III: Intermediate paradise with continuous Class II-IV rapids
Section IV: Expert only – home to the infamous Five Falls

Put-in/Take-out:

Section II: Highway 28 bridge to Earl's Ford
Section III: Earl's Ford to US 76 bridge
Section IV: US 76 to Lake Tugalo

Best Season: March-October (December-February for experts who don't mind cold) Required Gear: Helmet, proper whitewater kayak, throw bag

My Experience: I'll admit, my first run through Bull Sluice on Section III had me questioning my life choices. But clearing that drop opened up a whole new world of paddling for me. If you're new to whitewater, hire a guide or join a club trip first.

3. Congaree National Park - Paddling Through Ancient Forests

Paddling Cedar Creek through Congaree feels like traveling back in time. These old-growth bottomland hardwood forests create a canopy so dense that even midday feels like twilight. It's one of the few places in South Carolina where I've felt truly remote despite being just 20 minutes from Columbia.

The Route: Cedar Creek Canoe Trail runs 15 miles from Bannister Bridge to the Congaree River Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate (watch for downed trees) Best Launch: Cedar Creek Landing inside the park Wildlife: River otters, deer, barred owls, and yes, alligators

Seasonal Notes: Spring (March-May) offers the best water levels and wildflower blooms. Summer can be buggy and low water. Fall brings amazing colors but lower water levels.

Pro Tip: The park offers free ranger-led paddles on weekends. These fill up fast but are worth planning your trip around – the naturalists know every bird call and hidden channel.

4. ACE Basin - Where the Wild Things Are

The Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto Basin (ACE Basin) represents one of the largest undeveloped estuaries on the Atlantic Coast. In over 50 trips here, I've never had the same experience twice. This 350,000-acre maze of rivers, marshes, and islands remains wonderfully wild.

Top Paddling Routes:

Edisto River State Trail: 56 miles of blackwater beauty
Combahee River: Best for wildlife photography
St. Helena Sound: Advanced paddlers only – open water crossings

Wildlife Viewing: This is THE spot for nature photographers. I've photographed everything from wood storks to bottlenose dolphins, often on the same trip. Peak birding is October through March when migratory species arrive.

Access Points:

Givhans Ferry State Park (Edisto)
Canadys Landing (Edisto)
Steel Bridge Landing (Combahee)

Essential Gear: Bring a waterproof VHF radio for the coastal sections. Cell service is spotty at best.

5. Lake Murray - The Fishing Kayaker's Dream

Lake Murray might be man-made, but this 50,000-acre reservoir near Columbia has become a world-class fishery. I've pulled more striped bass from these waters than anywhere else in the state, and the protected coves make it perfect for kayak angling.

Fishing Hot Spots:

Rocky Creek area for largemouth bass
Dam area for stripers (best in May)
Hollow Creek for crappie

Launch Sites: 11 public ramps around the lake Best Fishing Kayak Areas: Western shoreline offers the most protection Peak Season: April-June for stripers, year-round for bass

Local Secret: The pump-back area near the Saluda Dam creates a unique upwelling that attracts baitfish – and monster stripers follow. Early morning in May, using live herring, I've seen 30-pound fish caught from kayaks.

6. Hilton Head Island - Family-Friendly Coastal Paradise

Hilton Head might be known for golf and resorts, but the island's 13 miles of beaches and countless tidal creeks create a paddling playground suitable for all ages. This was where I taught my kids to kayak – the protected waters of Broad Creek couldn't be more perfect for beginners.

Best Paddling Areas:

Broad Creek: Protected waters, dolphin sightings guaranteed
Calibogue Sound: Intermediate paddlers, stunning sunsets
Pinckney Island NWR: Wildlife viewing extraordinaire

Family Tips: Rent kayaks from Outside Hilton Head – they offer kid-sized boats and guided eco-tours. The Harbour Town area provides the calmest waters for first-timers.

Tides Matter: Check tide charts! I once got stuck in Jarvis Creek at low tide – spent two hours waiting in 6 inches of water surrounded by very interested fiddler crabs.

7. Waccamaw River - The Blackwater Highway

The Waccamaw River offers 140 miles of pristine blackwater paddling through both Carolinas. The tea-colored water, created by tannins from decaying vegetation, creates an otherworldly paddling experience – like floating through root beer.

Multi-Day Trip Options:

3-Day Trip: Waccamaw State Park to Conway (50 miles)
Day Trip: Pitch Landing to Port Landing (8 miles)

Camping: Primitive camping at Bull Creek (mile 67) and Peachtree Landing (mile 98) Wildlife: River otters, alligators, prothonotary warblers, swallow-tailed kites

Navigation Note: The river splits into multiple channels in places. I once spent an hour paddling in circles near Freeland. Download the Waccamaw River Blue Trail map before launching.

8. Charleston Harbor & Surrounding Waters

Charleston's historic waterfront takes on new meaning from a kayak. I love introducing visiting paddlers to this area – where else can you paddle past 300-year-old buildings, under the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, and potentially spot dolphins, all in one trip?

Routes by Experience Level:

Beginner: Shem Creek (calm, tons of restaurants for post-paddle food)
Intermediate: Charleston Harbor loop (watch for boat traffic)
Advanced: Morris Island lighthouse (open water crossing required)

Tidal Timing: Plan around tides! Paddling against an outgoing tide at the harbor mouth is like paddling on a treadmill. Trust me – I've been there.

Permit Requirements: No special permits needed, but stay clear of commercial shipping lanes and the Coast Guard station.

9. Santee Delta - Remote Wilderness Paddling

The Santee Delta WMA encompasses 24,000 acres of pure wilderness. This is where I go when I need to disappear for a day. The maze of creeks and marshes can be intimidating, but the solitude and wildlife viewing are unmatched.

Access Points:

Pole Yard Boat Landing (easiest access)
McClellanville (permit required)

Navigation Essential: GPS is mandatory. I've been turned around here even with 20 years of experience. The channels change with every big storm.

What to Expect: Alligators (lots of them), wading birds, and probably no other humans. This isn't Disney World – it's wild South Carolina at its finest.

10. Lake Marion - The Mysterious Swamp Lake

Lake Marion's 110,000 acres include some of the spookiest, most beautiful paddling in the state. The flooded forest areas, particularly around the Rimini area, create a landscape straight out of a Southern Gothic novel.

Must-Paddle Areas:

Sparkleberry Swamp: Cypress trees and wildlife galore
Santee State Park area: Great for beginners
Upper Lake: Less crowded, better fishing

Seasonal Highlight: March-April when the cypress trees bloom and migratory birds pass through. I once counted 47 species in a single morning paddle.

11. Broad River - Urban Escape in Columbia

Don't overlook the Broad River just because it flows through Columbia. This river offers surprisingly good paddling, from mild rapids to calm stretches perfect for after-work sessions. It's my go-to when I only have a few hours but need a paddling fix.

Sections:

Broad River Road to Gills Creek: 4 miles, Class I-II rapids
Below Columbia: Flatwater, good for beginners

Hidden Gem: The Congaree Creek confluence creates a neat eddy line perfect for practicing ferry moves and eddy turns.

12. Keowee River - Mountain Creek Magic

Below Lake Keowee dam, this tailwater creates a paddler's playground with consistent flows and stunning mountain scenery. The cold, clear water supports a thriving trout population, making this a favorite among fishing kayakers.

The Run: Highway 183 to Highway 123 bridge (7.5 miles) Rapids: Class II-III depending on release Water Temp: Cold year-round (wetsuit recommended)

Release Schedule: Check Duke Energy's website – they post release schedules that affect water levels dramatically.

13. Little Pee Dee State Park - Peaceful Blackwater

This hidden gem offers some of the most peaceful paddling in the state. The 54-acre Lake Norton might be small, but the adjoining Little Pee Dee River provides miles of scenic blackwater paddling through pristine swampland.

Why I Love It: Zero powerboats, minimal crowds, and some of the darkest skies in the state for night paddling (yes, night kayaking here is magical with proper lighting).

14. Bulls Bay - Coastal Wilderness

Bulls Bay represents coastal South Carolina paddling at its finest. This massive bay system north of Charleston includes Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge – 66,000 acres of barrier islands, salt marshes, and intricate waterways.

Advanced Paddlers Only: Open water crossings, strong tides, and afternoon winds make this challenging. I've been weather-bound on Bull Island more than once.

Wildlife Spectacular: This is one of the most important bird areas on the Atlantic Coast. During fall migration, the sky literally fills with birds.

15. Table Rock State Park - Mountain Lake Serenity

Pinnacle Lake at Table Rock might be small (36 acres), but the backdrop of Table Rock Mountain makes every paddle Instagram-worthy. This is where I take friends who claim the Southeast doesn't have "real" mountains.

Perfect For: Beginners, families, and anyone wanting a relaxed paddle with spectacular scenery Rentals: Available at the park during summer months Best Photo Ops: Early morning when mist rises off the lake with Table Rock in the background

16. Lynches River - The Forgotten Scenic River

South Carolina's first designated State Scenic River remains surprisingly unknown to most paddlers. This hidden gem offers 15 miles of officially marked canoe trail through some of the state's most pristine bottomland hardwood forests.

The Classic Run: Highway 76/378 to Lynches River County Park (15 miles) Difficulty: Easy-moderate (watch for strainers) Best Feature: Massive cypress trees and abundant wildlife without the crowds

17. Folly River - Urban Ocean Paddling

The Folly River behind Folly Beach offers a perfect blend of ocean and marsh paddling. Launch from the public landing and you can explore endless tidal creeks, paddle to uninhabited Morris Island, or if conditions allow, even venture into the ocean.

Tide Dependent: At low tide, many areas become too shallow. Plan for mid to high tide. Dolphin Central: I've never paddled here without seeing dolphins, especially near the river mouth.

Seasonal Kayaking Guide for South Carolina

Spring (March-May)

Best Overall Season

Water levels ideal from spring rains
Comfortable temperatures (60-80°F)
Wildflowers blooming
Fish are active
Less crowded than summer

Top Spring Destinations:

Congaree National Park (wildflowers)
ACE Basin (bird migration)
Mountain lakes (before crowds)

Summer (June-August)

Peak Season Challenges

Hot and humid (80-95°F)
Crowded on weekends
Afternoon thunderstorms common
Bugs at maximum annoyance

Summer Survival Tips:

Paddle early morning or evening
Choose spring-fed lakes (cooler water)
Always bring extra water
Seek shaded rivers over open lakes

Fall (September-November)

The Hidden Gem Season

Perfect weather (65-80°F)
Fall colors in the Upstate
Less crowded
Prime fishing

Can't-Miss Fall Paddles:

Chattooga River (peak colors in October)
Lake Jocassee (crystal clear water)
Waccamaw River (cypress trees turning orange)

Winter (December-February)

Off-Season Adventures

Solitude guaranteed
Coastal paddling still comfortable
Wildlife viewing excellent
No bugs!

Winter Considerations:

Water temps 45-60°F (wetsuit needed for mountains)
Shorter daylight hours
Some facilities closed
Weather more unpredictable

Planning Your South Carolina Kayaking Vacation

After hosting dozens of out-of-state paddling friends, I've developed the perfect South Carolina kayaking itineraries:

7-Day Ultimate Paddling Tour

Day 1-2: Upstate mountains (Devils Fork/Table Rock) Day 3: Whitewater on the Chattooga Day 4-5: Midlands (Congaree/Lake Murray) Day 6-7: Coast (Charleston/Hilton Head)

3-Day Weekend Warrior

Option 1 (Mountains): Devils Fork, Chattooga Section II, Table Rock Option 2 (Coast): Charleston, Bulls Bay, Folly River Option 3 (Wilderness): ACE Basin exploration

Family-Friendly 5-Day Trip

Day 1: Lake Murray (calm water practice) Day 2: Broad River in Columbia Day 3: Travel to coast Day 4: Hilton Head protected waters Day 5: Shem Creek in Charleston

Essential Local Knowledge & Safety Tips

Weather Watching

South Carolina weather changes fast. I've started many trips in sunshine only to race lightning back to shore. Always check:

Afternoon thunderstorm probability (60%+ in summer)
Wind speeds for open water
Cold front passages (can drop temps 30°F in hours)

Wildlife Safety

Alligators: Present in every body of water below the fall line. Give them space (at least 30 feet), never feed them, and avoid paddling near banks at dusk/dawn.

Snakes: Four venomous species call SC home. Most snake bites occur on land at launch sites – watch where you step.

Jellyfish: In tidal waters May-October. Not deadly but annoying. If stung, vinegar helps.

Navigation Tips

Download offline maps before launching
Tell someone your paddle plan
Many coastal areas have no cell service
Tide apps are essential for coastal paddling
GPS units are worth their weight in gold in marshes

Local Regulations Recap

PFD required for each person
Kids under 13 must wear PFD
Whistle or horn required
Light required after dark
No registration needed for non-motorized kayaks

Where to Find Kayak Rentals?

Upstate

Eclectic Sun (Travelers Rest): Near mountain rivers
Chattooga Outfitters: Whitewater specialists

Midlands

River Runner Outdoor Center (Columbia): Great selection
Adventure Carolina: Offers classes too

Lowcountry

Charleston Outdoor Adventures: My top pick for quality
Outside Hilton Head: Family-friendly options
Ocean Air Sea Kayak (Myrtle Beach): Coastal tours

Rental Costs (Average)

Half-day: $40-60
Full day: $60-85
Multi-day: $50-70/day
Guided tours: $75-125/person

Gear Recommendations for SC Paddling

Based on thousands of miles paddled in South Carolina waters, here's my essential gear list:

Always Have

PFD: NRS Chinook - comfortable for long paddles
Paddle: Carbon fiber for touring, plastic for rocks
Safety whistle: Attached to PFD
Dry bag: Sea to Summit 20L
Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+

Seasonal Additions

Summer: Bug spray, extra water, cooling towel Winter: Wetsuit, pogies, thermos Coastal: VHF radio, tide chart, anchor

Nice to Have

Waterproof phone case
Kayak cart for long portages
Fishing rod holders (even if you don't fish)
Bilge pump for sit-inside kayaks

FAQ Section

What's the best time of year to kayak in South Carolina?

April-May and September-November offer the best combination of weather, water levels, and wildlife viewing. I do 80% of my paddling during these months. Summer is doable but requires early starts to beat heat and afternoon storms.

Do I need to worry about alligators while kayaking?

Alligators are present in most waters below Columbia, but attacks on kayakers are extremely rare. In 20+ years of paddling SC waters, I've never had an aggressive encounter. Give them space, don't paddle over them, and never feed them. They're generally more scared of you.

What's the best kayak for South Carolina waters?

Depends on where you're paddling. For versatility, a 12-14 foot touring kayak handles both lakes and mild coastal waters. For fishing, a stable sit-on-top works best. Whitewater requires a proper whitewater kayak. Many paddlers here own multiple boats.

Are there any year-round paddling destinations?

Coastal areas like Hilton Head, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach offer comfortable paddling year-round. Lake Murray near Columbia rarely gets too cold. I paddle somewhere in SC every month of the year.

How do I handle tides when coastal kayaking?

Plan your trip around tides! Use apps like Tides Near Me. Generally, paddle out with an outgoing tide and return with incoming. The 2 hours around slack tide offer the easiest paddling. Strong tidal currents can exceed 4 mph in some areas.

What's the most beginner-friendly location?

Lake Murray, Hilton Head's Broad Creek, and the lakes at state parks (Table Rock, Paris Mountain) offer protected, calm waters perfect for beginners. Start there before tackling rivers or open water.

Do I need a guide for the Chattooga River?

For Sections III and IV, absolutely yes unless you're an experienced whitewater paddler. Section II is manageable for intermediates with proper safety gear. Several deaths occur yearly from paddlers underestimating this river.

Can I camp along these waterways?

Yes, at designated sites. The Edisto River has platforms every 10 miles. Many state parks offer waterfront camping. Always check regulations – some areas require permits or prohibit camping entirely.

What about sharks in coastal areas?

Sharks are present but kayak incidents are incredibly rare. I see dolphins 100x more often than sharks. Avoid paddling at dawn/dusk in murky water near inlets. If you see baitfish jumping, paddle elsewhere.

Are there any permit requirements I should know about?

Most areas require no permits for day paddling. Overnight camping often needs permits. Some WMAs require annual permits. Commercial groups always need permits. Check with local authorities when in doubt.

What's the water quality like for swimming?

Mountain lakes (Jocassee, Keowee) have excellent water quality. Major lakes are generally safe but check advisories after heavy rain. Some blackwater rivers look dark but are actually very clean – the color comes from natural tannins.

How crowded do these places get?

Summer weekends at popular spots (Devils Fork, Hilton Head) can be busy. For solitude, paddle weekdays, early mornings, or choose less-known spots like Lynches River or Santee Delta. I rarely see crowds from October-March.

Bottom Line: Start Planning Your South Carolina Paddling Adventure

South Carolina transformed me from a casual weekend paddler into someone who plans vacations around water access. The diversity here – from mountain lakes to coastal marshes – means you'll never run out of new places to explore.

Start with the easier destinations like Lake Murray or Broad Creek to build confidence, then work up to the wilderness areas and whitewater. Join local paddling clubs (Palmetto Paddlers in Columbia is fantastic) to find partners and learn from experienced locals.

Remember: the best kayaking spot is the one you actually paddle. Don't wait for perfect conditions or the ideal boat. Grab a rental, pick a destination from this guide, and get out there. The water's waiting, and trust me – South Carolina's waterways never disappoint.

See you on the water!