LAKE HARTWELL STATE PARK
Just off of I-85, at the South Carolina-Georgia border, you'll find Lake Hartwell State Park.Thanks to 56,000-acre Lake Hartwell, fishing in this area is renowned by anglers across the state. The lake is inhabited by striped and hybrid bass, largemouth, crappie, bream and catfish.
Besides the superb Lake Hartwell fishing, the park offers a basketball court, publicly accessible boat ramp and hiking. Every type of camping enthusiast will find a site that suits their needs for camping on Lake Hartwell. The park is one of a few in the state to offer the unique, single room camper cabins, which offer guests without camping gear an opportunity to experience the feel of camping on Lake Hartwell.
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.
Lake Hartwell State Park has two camper cabins available for rent on a year-round basis. These cabins provide the camping experience for those who prefer a roof over their head.
The camping area provides easy access to the shoreline of Lake Hartwell. All sites are convenient to hot showers and restrooms.
1. Lake Hartwell State Park offers a variety of swimming options for visitors.
2. The park features two sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
3. Swimming is allowed in designated areas marked by buoys to ensure safety.
4. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swimmers should exercise caution when entering the water.
5. Visitors can also swim off boats but must adhere to boating regulations and restrictions set by the park officials.
Anglers can enjoy fishing from the shoreline or a boat, with options for night and tournament fishing. The lake is home to species like largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish and striped bass. Fishing equipment rentals are available on-site.
Lake Hartwell State Park is located near Anderson, Central and Clemson
The picnic shelter is ideal for groups up to 75 people.
This handicap accessible facility includes an enclosed kitchen.
Nature Trail
DescriptionOn this short, but hilly, out-and-back dirt path through a quiet forest of pine and oak, you will wind along a ravine,creek and passscenic views of Lake Hartwell. As you climb steep terraces constructed by farmers who harvested crops on this land generations ago, watch for snakes, green lizards, squirrels, fox, a variety of birds, and other wildlife amid fern and brightly colored wild flowers. When the trail ends at the park road, you have the option of returning the way you came, or turning right on the paved park road to loop back to the parking area.Trail parking and the trailhead itself begins across the road from the Visitors Center Parking Area, adjacent to the Park Shelter.
Kingfisher Trail
Description Located alongside a beautiful cove, this short trail offers visitors a chance to stretch their legs and enjoy a short walk through the woods. The trail begins in the corner of the Day-Use parking area look for the sign that reads KINGFISHER TRAIL and ends up at the scenic 140 foot fishing pier. Along the trail you will find a picnic table andvarious spots to fish. A restroom facility is also located nearby.
Biking enthusiasts should be aware that the park itself does not offer dedicated biking trails. However, nearby areas provide cycling opportunities. The Issaqueena Trail System is a popular choice for mountain bikers and it's just 30 minutes away from the park.
While exploring on two wheels, cyclists need to exercise caution due to uneven terrain or sudden changes in weather conditions. It's also important to note that some paths may have restrictions during certain seasons or times of day.
Remember: safety gear such as helmets and reflective clothing are essential when bicycling outdoors - especially if you plan on riding after sunset! Always respect nature by sticking to designated routes and disposing of waste responsibly.
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting a variety of species, including waterfowl and songbirds. The park also features birding trails for exploration.
Share Your Lake Hartwell State Park Photos (click here)
