Paddling
Paddling in SC State Parks
Swimming, fishing and boating can be enjoyable for the avid outdoorsman, but for some, it’s good to be up a creek, river, pond or lake with a paddle. Paddling is a great excuse to come out and play at a South Carolina State Park.
There are several state parks, many along scenic rivers, where you can stroke the beautiful waters of South Carolina. While paddling is good exercise for some, for others like Kathleen Whitaker, a member of Palmetto Paddlers Inc., it’s a chance to flee from the normal hustle and bustle of life.
Whitaker says paddling is the time to “get away from the traffic, the cell phone and radio” and become engrossed in the quiet. “It’s physically challenging, but mentally relaxing. When I’m paddling I’m not thinking about cares and worries.”
But it’s not just about how you feel, but what you see during the excursion. South Carolina’s wildlife along with the flora and fauna enrich your peaceful water escape. Perhaps you’ll see deer running through the woods or alligators partially submerged into the water. “It’s so neat to see them in their own (natural) environment,” says Whitaker.
For Novice to Expert Paddlers
Even if you’ve been paddling or you’re not quite comfortable with the sport yet, the lake at
Oconee State Park is ideal for the novice. Oconee State Park manager Mark Davies, says "the 60-acre lake is a good beginner lake. It’s very easy, anyone do it.”
No private boats are allowed at Oconee State Park, but they’ve got you covered. Like most South Carolina State Parks, Oconee has canoes and kayaks available for rent.
The 70-acre Strom Thurmond Reservoir might be a little more challenging according to Everett Earnst, senior park manager at Hickory Knob State Park.
“If you stay inside our cove, you won’t find much of a problem. If you go out of our cove, then you’ll find trouble,” Earnst says. "You don’t have to be a pro and it’s nothing a beginner wouldn’t be able to learn."
Are you ready for the challenge? Grab your outdoor gear and head to a South Carolina State Park where you can go paddling. Don’t worry, guided trips are offered regularly.
South Carolina State Parks where you can go paddling: