Places to Kayak in South Carolina: A Comprehensive Guide

South Carolina offers a diverse range of kayaking experiences, from serene lakes and rivers to coastal waters and wildlife-rich wetlands. This guide explores the top destinations for kayaking in the Palmetto State, including information on trails suitable for beginners, difficulty levels, safety precautions, and options for renting kayaks and equipment.

What are the Popular Kayaking Spots in South Carolina?

1. Congaree National Park
2. Location: Central South Carolina
3. Description: Congaree National Park is renowned for its cypress swamps and hardwood bottomlands. Kayaking here allows you to explore the park’s magnificent floodplain wilderness.
4. Launch Points: Cedar Creek Canoe Launch / Kingsnake Trailhead
5. Wildlife: Alligators, deer, and various bird species

6. Difficulty: Suitable for all skill levels, but beginners may prefer guided tours

7. Lake Jocassee

8. Location: Northwest South Carolina
9. Description: Known for its crystal-clear water and stunning mountain views, Lake Jocassee is a favorite among kayakers. The lake features numerous waterfalls that can be explored by kayak.
10. Launch Points: Boat Ramp at Devil’s Fork State Park
11. Wildlife: Eagles, black bears, and diverse aquatic life
12. Difficulty: Generally easy, suitable for beginners

13. Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall

14. Edisto River

15. Location: Southeastern South Carolina
16. Description: The Edisto River is South Carolina’s longest free-flowing blackwater river, offering picturesque scenery, including sandbars, bluffs, and cypress swamps.
17. Launch Points: Various access points, including Lowndes Landing and Givhans Ferry State Park
18. Wildlife: Otters, Kingfishers, and other aquatic life
19. Difficulty: Suitable for all skill levels, but multi-day paddles may be more challenging
20. Safety Precautions: Be aware of water levels and potential portages

What are the Trails Suitable for Beginner Kayakers in South Carolina?

1. Waccamaw River Blue Trail
2. Location: Southeastern South Carolina
3. Description: This 100-mile trail meanders through protected bottomland hardwood swamps of the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge.
4. Launch Points: J. Todd Landing and Cox Ferry Lake Landing
5. Wildlife: Alligators, ospreys, raccoons, and deer
6. Difficulty: Generally easy to moderate, suitable for beginners

7. Safety Precautions: Be cautious of wildlife and changing water levels

8. Saluda River

9. Location: Central South Carolina
10. Description: The Saluda River offers a mix of calm and whitewater sections, making it suitable for a range of skill levels.
11. Launch Points: Various access points along the river
12. Difficulty: Varies from easy to challenging, depending on the section
13. Safety Precautions: Be aware of water levels and potential rapids

Where Can I Rent Kayaks and Equipment in South Carolina?

Lake Jocassee and Devil’s Fork State Park:
– Rental Locations: Devil’s Fork State Park offers kayak rentals.
– Costs and Packages: Vary by outfitter, but typically include kayak rental, paddles, and life jackets. Guided tours and instructional sessions may also be available.
– Services: Some outfitters offer guided tours, especially for Congaree National Park and Lake Jocassee.

Edisto River:
– Rental Locations: Carolina Heritage Outfitters and other local outfitters provide kayak rentals and guided tours.
– Costs and Packages: Prices vary, but often include equipment rental, transportation to launch points, and guided tours.
– Services: Guided tours, camping arrangements, and equipment rentals are commonly available.

Waccamaw River Blue Trail:
– Rental Locations: Local outfitters in Conway and Georgetown offer kayak rentals and guided tours.
– Costs and Packages: Vary by outfitter, but typically include kayak rental, paddles, and life jackets. Guided tours may also be available.
– Services: Some outfitters offer guided tours and instructional sessions.

Reference:
1. Top Paddling Adventures in South Carolina
2. Best Places to Kayak in South Carolina
3. Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail