CALHOUN FALLS STATE PARK
Calhoun Falls State Park sits along several pine-covered points extending out into sparsely-developed Lake Russell. The Calhoun Falls campground is one of the most coveted in the park system, with spacious RV and tent sites complete with forested, shoreline views of the lake.
Day-use activities include a short, easy nature trail, tennis court, seasonal swimmingand fishing. The park also attracts various events year round, including fishing tournaments and the popular South Carolina Campground Cookoff.
South Carolina offers a variety of Park Passports. You can read more about the South Carolina Park Passports and order online by visiting the
SOUTH CAROLINA PARK PASSPORTS web page.
Three campgrounds are located along the shores of Lake Russell. Two of the campgrounds provide individual water and electrical hookups. Some of these sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, others up to 30 feet.
While tent campers may use these sites, a designated walk-in tent camping area includes tent pads and centralized water. All but one tent site is waterfront. Each campground is convenient to restrooms with hot showers.
1. Calhoun Falls State Park offers a large, sandy beach for swimming on Lake Russell.
2. Lifeguards are not provided; swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is permitted during daylight hours only.
4. The park's lake also allows snorkeling and diving activities in designated areas.
5. There are no indoor or pool facilities available within the state park for swimming purposes.
The park offers freshwater fishing in Lake Russell, known for its bass. Other species include crappie and bream. Fishing from the shoreline or a boat is permitted with appropriate licenses. The lake also hosts several annual fishing tournaments.
Calhoun Falls State Park is located near Abbeville, Elberton
Two picnic shelters are available for family or other group gatherings. Each shelter may be reserved. If shelters are not reserved, guests may use shelters on a first-come, first-served basis at no charge.
Biking enthusiasts can explore the park's 1.75-mile bike trail, offering a moderate challenge due to its hilly terrain.
It is important for riders to exercise caution as some sections of this path may be steep and rocky.
For those seeking less strenuous options, there are also paved roads throughout the area suitable for leisurely rides.
Remember that helmets should always be worn when biking in order to ensure safety on these trails or roads.
Please note that off-road cycling outside designated areas isn't permitted; stick strictly to marked paths and roadways.
Night-time bicycling is not recommended due lack of adequate lighting along most routes within the park premises.
Cedar Bluff Nature Trail
Difficulty Easy to Moderate
DescriptionThis rolling 1.7 mile blue blazed loop trail begins at the trailhead near the tennis courts in Calhoun Falls State Park. You will descend wooden steps into a mixed pine and hardwood forest bordering scenic Lake Russell. As you loop toward the lake, you will discover unexpected vistas as you hike up and down gentle hills and across numerous footbridges. At the far end of the loop, you can take a spur trail to the camping area, or continue and return to the tennis courts.
The park offers birding opportunities with diverse species like bald eagles, ospreys and various waterfowl. Birdwatchers can explore the 1.5-mile Cedar Bluff Nature Trail for a variety of woodland birds.
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