Boating At Lake Hartwell In South Carolina

By AA-Boats & Boating Staff Writers

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Lake Hartwell, straddling the border between South Carolina and Georgia, is a vast reservoir that beckons travelers with its scenic beauty and abundant recreational opportunities. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, the lake's location offers a tranquil escape and a chance to reconnect with nature.

Boating is popular on Lake Hartwell, with its expansive waters providing ample space for all types of vessels. Boaters can explore the lake's many coves and inlets, enjoy leisurely cruises, or engage in thrilling water sports such as water skiing and tubing. With several boat launch ramps scattered along the shoreline, getting on the water is convenient for all visitors.

The lake features well-equipped marinas that cater to boaters' needs, offering amenities such as fuel stations, boat repairs, and supplies. Whether seeking a boat slip for a long-term stay or transient docking for a day trip, Lake Hartwell's marinas provide a welcoming environment for all boating enthusiasts.

Lake Hartwell is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering various options like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and wakeboarding. The calm waters and beautiful surroundings create the perfect backdrop for exhilarating water adventures.

For those without their own boats, rental options are available, allowing visitors to experience the joys of boating without the commitment of ownership. Rental boats offer a convenient way to explore the lake and make the most of their time on the water.

Nearby cities such as Anderson and Clemson provide easy access to Lake Hartwell, offering a range of accommodations, dining options, and attractions for visitors to enjoy. The vibrant communities around the lake add to the overall experience, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture and hospitality.

Boating season at Lake Hartwell typically runs from spring through fall when the weather is pleasant, and the lake comes alive with activity. During this time, visitors can fully appreciate the beauty and recreational opportunities that the lake has to offer.

Fishing is popular on Lake Hartwell, attracting anglers from far and wide. The lake is teeming with a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and crappie, making it a prime destination for both amateur and seasoned fishermen.

Camping opportunities allow visitors to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the lake's surroundings.

Boating, camping and fishing.

A legendary fishery in the world of competitive bass fishing, Lake Hartwell covers 56,000 acres and has healthy populations of many fish species. Located along the western border of the state, at Anderson, SC, Hartwell Lake has 960 miles of shoreline. More than a half dozen marinas, stores and restaurants are available to enhance your weekend fishing trip or vacation. A couple dozen SC boat launch ramps are conveniently located for easy access. On-the-water boat rentals include pontoon boats, sailboats, ski boats, kayaks and family boats. Lake Hartwell State Park and other campgrounds and RV parks are available in the area. A legendary fishery in the world of competitive bass tournaments, fishing enthusiasts can also pursue catfish, crappie, walleye, bluegill, sunfish, striped bass and hybrid stripers. Humps, bumps, islands, points, creek channels, ledges and backwaters all over the lake provide cover for the bass and baitfish alike. Numerous fishing guides offer experienced guide trips on Hartwell.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Lake Hartwell State Park Campground - 864 972-3352

Lakeshore RV Resort - 864 642-8711

Carolina Landing RV Resort - 864 972-9892

Lake Hartwell Camping and Cabins - 864 287-3223

Little Creek RV Park - 864 231-5657

Coneross Park Campground - 888 893-0678

Twin Lakes Campground - 888 893-0678

Anderson-Lake Hartwell KOA Campground - 864 287-3161

Wells Highway RV Park - 864 973-3943

Tiger Cove Campground - 864 225-5993

Hartwell Reservoir Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Lake Hartwell include largemouth bass, spotted bass, redeye bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, warmouth, white bass, white perch, yellow perch, striped bass, hybrid striped bass and chain pickerel.

Click here for a SC Fishing License.

Local Contact Information

Lake Hartwell State Park
19138 SC-11
Fair Play, SC 29643
864 972-3352

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