Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, Lake Wateree offers a plethora of awesome activities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
From fishing adventures to scenic paddling, this hidden gem of a lake provides a perfect setting for unforgettable memories.
As a well-developed lake with numerous marinas, campgrounds, and rentals, Lake Wateree is a convenient and fun outdoor destination.
Check out some of the best activities at the lake!
1. Plenty of Fishing Opportunities
For those who enjoy the art of angling, Lake Wateree is a paradise of fishing opportunities.
A diverse range of fish species, including bream, catfish, crappie, and bass, inhabit these waters.
Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner eager to learn, casting your line from the serene banks of the park promises a day filled with excitement and relaxation.
It’s worth pointing out that a valid South Carolina fishing license is your passport to the angling adventure of a lifetime.
Fishing Tournaments
For those with a competitive spirit, Lake Wateree also hosts fishing tournaments throughout the year.
These tournaments provide an opportunity to showcase your skills, compete for the biggest catch, and forge lasting memories.
If you’re eager to cast your line and vie for victory, reach out to the park for information on upcoming tournaments.
Tackle Loaner Program
If you’re without your own fishing gear, fret not!
Lake Wateree welcomes you with the Tackle Loaner Program.
This thoughtful initiative allows you to borrow fishing rods and reels from the park store.
With this program, everyone can experience the thrill of fishing without the need for extensive preparations.
Fishing Guides
As legendary as Lake Watree is, fishing requires equipment, skill, and local knowledge.
Luckily several local guides would love to take you out for a spin and share the best fishing spots on the lake:
2. Go Boating
Lake Wateree warmly invites boating fans to embrace adventure.
Numerous boat ramps and marinas dot the shoreline offering easy access to the pristine lake:
Whether you’re into the gentle sway of kayaks or the power of motorboats, Lake Wateree’s vast space caters to all kinds of water exploration.
3. Rent a Kayak
For a more personal water adventure, consider kayaking and kayak fishing!
You can rent kayaks throughout the year at Lake Wateree State Park, offering a chance to paddle peacefully on the serene lake.
Life jackets and paddles come along, ensuring you’re set for a wonderful day of discovery.
With rentals priced at $25 for half a day or $40 for a full day, it’s an affordable way to make memories.
4. Take a Refreshing Dip
On hot days, the inviting swimming area at Lake Wateree Staet Park offers a perfect escape.
There might not be lifeguards, but the gradual slope and sandy bottom mean it’s a safe spot to cool off.
Go ahead, take a refreshing dip, soak in the sun’s warmth, and create cherished moments by the water’s edge.
5. Spot Rare Birds
For bird enthusiasts, Lake Wateree is a haven of avian wonders.
The peaceful surroundings make it an ideal place for birdwatching.
Look up to catch sight of majestic bald eagles soaring high, graceful ospreys taking flight, and other captivating birds of prey.
Bring along binoculars for an up-close experience!
6. Hike the Desportes Island Trail
Put on your hiking shoes and set out on the Desportes Island Trail, a 2.3-mile loop that captures the essence of Lake Wateree’s natural beauty.
This moderate trail leads you through diverse landscapes, offering stunning views, moments of calm, and a chance to connect with nature.
7. Extend Your Stay
Lake Wateree offers a duo of idyllic camping experiences that cater to a range of preferences.
At the Lake Wateree RV Park and Marina, family-oriented campers can choose from 74 RV sites available on a flexible basis, be it nightly, weekly, or monthly.
In addition to its camping allure, the site boasts 16 boat slips and a cozy Breakfast Café for early risers.
On the other hand, the Lake Wateree State Park offers a more traditional camping vibe.
With 100 campsites, each paved and equipped with individual water and electrical hookups, campers can select from standard sites or those with full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer.
For larger groups, the Primitive camping area is ideal, accommodating up to 50 individuals and providing fire rings, picnic tables, and nearby restroom facilities.
8. Rev’it Up
Carolina Adventure World, touted as the Southeast’s grandest outdoor playground, is where thrill-seekers redefine the word ‘fun’.
Located a stone’s throw from Lake Watree, this expansive park sprawls across 2,600 acres, boasting an impressive 100 miles of tailor-made trails for ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes.
Beyond the winding trails, adrenaline junkies can rev up on the 300-foot drag strip, plunge into mud bogs, tackle the rock crawl, or race around the banked oval track.
9. All Aboard the Choo-Choo Secret
Located 20 miles from Lake Watree, the South Carolina Railroad Museum stands as a hidden treasure, often overlooked in typical guidebooks.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this national gem boasts an impressive collection of rolling stock, including the revered steam locomotive #44.
The museum’s mission, rooted in the preservation and interpretation of South Carolina’s railroading legacy, promises visitors a journey back in time, complete with seasonal train rides and special railway events.
A visit to this museum is an unmissable experience for those looking to uncover hidden facets of the state’s rich heritage.
