The 5 Best Lakes to Boat On in South Carolina

The Palmetto State offers all kinds of natural beauty that’s worthy of exploration. If you’re looking for places to take your boat, you have no shortage of options here in South Carolina. While the Atlantic Coast is always a good choice, some people prefer freshwater boating, so we’ve rounded up some of the best lakes in the state for you to visit on your next boat trip.

1. Lake Hartwell (near Anderson, SC)

At the lower western edge of South Carolina, sharing a border with Georgia, is this massive, 56,000-acre lake that is fed by three rivers: the Tugaloo, the Seneca, and the Savannah. This lake is ideal for leisure boating, but many people also enjoy going fishing or water-skiing and wakeboarding on its sparkling waters. The lake is host to many types of fish, including crappie, catfish, and bass.

2. Lake Jocassee (near Salem, SC)

This scenic valley lake abuts the northwestern border with North Carolina. Lake Jocassee is located in Devil’s Fork State Park and has an incredible 75 miles of shoreline. Crystal-clear water flows down into the lake via four rivers from the Appalachian Mountains, so it’s amazing for swimming, scuba diving, fishing, and sunset pleasure cruises.

3. Lake Marion (near Santee, SC)

Towards the southeastern portion of the state is the largest lake in South Carolina. At 110,000 acres, Lake Marion covers five counties and has an intriguing biome, thanks to the cypress trees along its edges. Campgrounds, restaurants, and natural beauty abound here, and the lake is also excellent for fishing.

4. Lake Moultrie (near Pinopolis, SC)

Lake Moultrie adjoins Lake Marion via a canal at Old Santee Canal State Park, so you can access two excellent boating lakes in one trip that takes you north of Charleston. Lake Moultrie offers lots of restaurants and campgrounds, just like Lake Marion, and it has several marinas and boat launches. FIshing is popular here, as well as swimming.

5. Lake Murray (near Lexington, SC)

Centrally located almost in the middle of the state, this reservoir has an impressive 500 miles of shoreline. At the western edge of Lake Murray, you’ll find the Dreher Island State Recreation Area. With a designated swimming area, picnic facilities, and lots of camping options, this lake makes for an excellent family-friendly weekend boat trip.

Need a boat to facilitate your marine adventuring? Come on down to our dealership in Seneca, SC, today to view our current inventory of new and used boats for sale in many different styles to suit your unique needs. We can also provide you with boat financing options on your purchase. JC Sports proudly serves our South Carolina customers in the cities of Greenville and Anderson.