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Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area wilderness guide
State Park · SC

Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area

Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area offers visitors a chance to explore nearly 1,000 acres of outdoor activities along the shores of Lake Greenwood. The park is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

State Park9141+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

914

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area

Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area offers visitors a chance to explore nearly 1,000 acres of outdoor activities along the shores of Lake Greenwood. The park is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area is located in South Carolina and spans across approximately 914 acres. Established in 1938, it was one of the sixteen state parks built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The park is known for offering numerous recreational opportunities including fishing, boating, and swimming along the expansive Lake Greenwood. Rich in history, the area once served as a critical resource for the development of the surrounding areas due to the hydroelectric power generated by the Saluda Dam. The park features several miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through scenic woodlands, providing a home for a variety of wildlife species including deer and numerous bird species. The area is also known for its vibrant fall foliage, making it a popular destination during autumn. Visitors can explore the historic Civilian Conservation Corps structures, which add a touch of historical significance to their outdoor adventures.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Camp at Lake Greenwood State Park★ 7.0⌖ 3 miCamping
State Park Road

Camp at Lake Greenwood State Park

Lake Greenwood State Park offers picturesque camping with activities like fishing and hiking. Suitable for families, it's a popular spot about an hour from Greenville, SC, accessible year-round, though busiest in summer. Enjoy lakeside campsites and park history.

Fishing at Lake Greenwood★ 7.0⌖ 3 miFishing
Seaboard Avenue

Fishing at Lake Greenwood

Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing at Lake Greenwood, located near Greenwood, SC. This accessible lake is popular for fishing and boating, providing a family-friendly atmosphere with opportunities to catch bass and catfish. Best visited in spring and fall for optimal fishing conditions.

Outdoor Haven at Lake Greenwood State Park, Ninety Six, SC★ 6.5⌖ 3 miFishing
Lake Greenwood State Park

Outdoor Haven at Lake Greenwood State Park, Ninety Six, SC

Lake Greenwood State Park in Ninety Six, SC offers fishing, hiking, camping, and boating around an 11,400-acre freshwater lake. Easy drive-in access provides family-friendly outdoor recreation with scenic forests and beaches. Ideal in spring and fall for fishing and hiking.

Off-Road Adventure at Gulches Off Road Vehicle Park, Waterloo, SC★ 4.5⌖ 17 miOff-Road Driving
Gulches Off Road Vehicle Park

Off-Road Adventure at Gulches Off Road Vehicle Park, Waterloo, SC

Located near Waterloo, SC, Gulches Off Road Vehicle Park offers diverse trails for all skill levels in off-road driving. The park features camping by the river and hosts regular events. Best visited spring through fall, it suits adventure seekers looking for rugged outdoor driving and scenic trails.

Off-Road DrivingView Details→
Discover the Charm of Great Falls★ 7.2⌖ 20 miHiking
Great Falls

Discover the Charm of Great Falls

Explore the moderate trails of Great Falls, SC, featuring a stunning waterfall and historical mill ruins. Ideal for hiking and birding, this area offers great fishing spots and scenic views. Enjoy a family-friendly adventure with spring or fall visits.

Sumter National Forest: Enoree Ranger District★ 7.8⌖ 29 miHiking
US Forest Service, Sumter National Forest, Enoree Ranger District

Sumter National Forest: Enoree Ranger District

Explore the diverse trails of Enoree Ranger District in Sumter National Forest, just an hour from Columbia, SC. The area's lush landscapes and river access make it ideal for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Lake Greenwood shoreline offering extensive water recreation opportunities.✦ Viewpoints ideal for wildlife observation, especially bird watching.✦ Historic sites featuring Civilian Conservation Corps architecture.✦ Hiking and biking trails exploring the rich natural landscapes.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fee required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Lake Greenwood Campground

Located near the lake, offering easy access to water activities and trails.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Ninety Six
⌖ 1.26 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ninety Six, South Carolina

A historic Southern town offering rugged outdoor exploration with plentiful hiking, biking, and paddling through serene parks and preserved battlefields.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Greenwood
⌖ 8.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Greenwood, South Carolina

A charming Southern town with a unique blend of lakeside relaxation and outdoor adventure opportunities.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Waterloo
⌖ 11.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Waterloo, South Carolina

A quiet rural town offering calm access to natural waterways and forested areas for low-key outdoor activities.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Abbeville
⌖ 21.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Abbeville, South Carolina

A charming Southern town offering a quiet gateway to scenic rivers, gentle trails, and rich natural landscapes for paddlers, hikers, and cyclists.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Laurens
⌖ 21.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Laurens, South Carolina

A quiet small town offering easy access to peaceful natural areas, calm waterways, and rolling countryside perfect for outdoor recreation enthusiasts.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Due West
⌖ 24.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Due West, South Carolina

A quiet small town offering a mix of low-impact outdoor activities with peaceful natural settings and easy access to nearby lakes and trails.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Lake Greenwood State Recreation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.