Lake Wateree

Kershaw, Fairfield, and Lancaster counties, SC, USA

Lake Wateree is a serene, historic reservoir nestled in Kershaw, Fairfield, and Lancaster counties in South Carolina.

13,864 acres

Surface Area

65 ft

Max Depth

242 miles

Shoreline

1920

Created

Michael Thomas

Broker Associate, Keller Williams Preferred Realty

Mike Thomas is a longtime Lake Wateree real estate expert with deep roots in the community. Having grown up on the lake, he offers firsthand knowledge of the area and waterfront lifestyle. Since entering real estate in 2000, Mike has helped buyers and sellers navigate the Lake Wateree market with experience, local insight, and personal service.

803-427-5073

thomasm@truvista.net

www.SellingLakeWateree.com

Find Your Lake Home

About Lake Wateree

Lake Wateree spans nearly 13,800–13,900 acres with around 181 to over 240 miles of shoreline, depending on the source—making it one of the largest and most shoreline-rich lakes in South Carolina.

Formed by Duke Energy's hydroelectric dam in 1919–1920, Lake Wateree averages a depth of about 23 ft and reaches a maximum depth of roughly 65 ft. Situated about 30 miles northeast of Columbia, it offers easy access via Interstate 77 and SC-97.

Key Features

Swimming Areas

Boating & Water Sports

Fishing (Diverse Species)

Marinas & Boat Services

Morrow Mountain State Park & Uwharrie National Forest

Picnic Areas & Outdoor Leisure

Minimal Water Level Fluctuation

Wildlife Viewing

Quick facts (at-a-glance)

Lake Wateree was created in 1919–1920 by damming the Wateree River.
It covers about 13,800–13,900 acres of water.
The shoreline stretches for 181 to over 240 miles.
The lake averages 23 feet deep, with spots reaching 65 feet.
Full pool water elevation is around 225–226 feet above sea level.
Summer water temperatures often reach the mid to high 80s °F.
The lake is home to at least 8–10 popular fish species, including bass, catfish, and crappie.
It was originally built for hydroelectric power generation.
Wildlife includes ospreys, bald eagles, herons, deer, and occasional alligators.

Lake Wateree Vacation Homes For Rent

📅

Lake Wateree EVENT GUIDE

Coming Soon

🍽️

Lake Wateree DINING GUIDE

Coming Soon

What you can do there

Boating & Water Sports: With nearly 14,000 acres of open water, the lake is ideal for all kinds of boating. Visitors can launch powerboats, pontoons, and sailboats, or paddle kayaks and canoes into quiet coves. Water-skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing are popular in the open stretches, while calmer inlets provide safe paddling for families.

Fishing: Lake Wateree is a top destination for anglers, with healthy populations of largemouth bass, striped bass, white bass, catfish (blue, channel, and flathead), crappie, and bream. The lake hosts regular bass tournaments, but casual fishing from the banks, docks, or boats is just as rewarding. Spring and fall are especially good for bass, while catfish and crappie bite year-round.

Swimming: Designated swim areas at Lake Wateree State Park provide safe, clean access to the water. The sandy beach-like shoreline and shallow entry make it suitable for kids and casual swimmers. During summer, water temperatures are warm and inviting.

Camping: Lake Wateree State Park offers shaded, lakeside campsites for tents and RVs, with modern amenities like electric hookups, restrooms, and showers. Many sites sit right on the shoreline, giving campers direct access to fishing or swimming from their site.

Hiking & Nature Trails: The 2.3-mile Desportes Island trail winds through a peaceful hardwood forest with lake views and birdwatching opportunities. Hikers often see herons, osprey, and deer. The trail is moderate and suitable for most ages.

Picnicking & Family Leisure: Several picnic shelters, grills, and playgrounds are available around the lake, making it a great spot for family gatherings or day trips. Shaded picnic pads at the state park provide lake views while you eat.

Wildlife Viewing & Birding: Lake Wateree is a designated bird refuge area, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers. Visitors can spot bald eagles, osprey, egrets, and herons along the shoreline. The surrounding woodlands are home to foxes, raccoons, squirrels, and wild turkeys.

Relaxation: For those who prefer peace and quiet, Lake Wateree offers plenty of secluded coves and shoreline spots to read, watch sunsets, or simply enjoy the stillness of the water.

Access, marinas & ramps

Access: Easily reached from Columbia via I-77 and SC-97.

Marinas & Services: Several marinas offer boat rentals, fuel, supplies, and slip rentals. Public boat ramps, including free state ramps, are plentiful.

State Park Access: Lake Wateree State Park features a two-lane ramp, tackle shop, convenient supplies, and refueling.

Safety & regulations

Swimming Safety: Water is sampled weekly from Memorial Day to Labor Day for E. coli and turbidity. Generally meets safe standards, but caution after heavy rain. ≥16 ft.
Fishing & Boating: Regulated by South Carolina Department of Natural Resources; licenses required, and rules are enforced around size and limits. Regulation guides are available at marinas and parks.
Wildlife Caution: Alligators are rare but sometimes seen—observe from a distance and supervise children near water.

Gallery

Nearby highlights & suggested day trips

Lake Wateree State Park: A hub for hiking, camping, birdwatching, and family outings.
Bird Refuge: A protected strip on Lancaster County shoreline provides prime wildlife observation.
Camden & Local Towns: Visit historic Camden for charming shops, dining, or antique-hunting.
Eastward Excursions: Consider a drive to Lake Marion, Congaree River, or Santee State Park for a broader nature experience.

Events & community

Lake Wateree maintains an active local community—hosting annual fishing tournaments, educational programs, and family-friendly occasions. Lake Wateree State Park organizes seasonal events like guided nature hikes, Easter celebrations, and the "Creepy Campout" around Halloween. The area thrives as a social and recreational hub where anglers, campers, and nature lovers converge throughout the year.