A Top South Carolina Lake
On any list of the best lakes in South Carolina, Lake Marion always finds its way to the top. Showcasing 315 miles of shoreline and spanning 110,00 acres, Lake Marion is also South Carolina’s largest lake. Plus, it is one of the state’s most beautiful lakes, filled with picturesque Cypress trees and surrounded by countless miles of wild national forests.
Essentials
Although Lake Marion provides a relaxing, rural setting, the necessities are not too far away. The Florence Regional Airport is just 68 miles from the east side of the lake, and the Regional Medical Center in Orangeburg is only 27 miles away from the western side.
The New Deal: South Carolina’s Lake Dawn
Named after the Revolutionary War hero General Francis Marion, Lake Marion played an instrumental role in the South Carolina sector of Roosevelt’s New Deal. More than 12,500 South Carolina workers cleared at least 177,000 acres of timberland and swamp to build Lakes Marion and Moultrie. However, not all the trees were completely removed before they filled the area with water. As a result, some remain standing in the lake today, serving as reminders of South Carolina’s past and beacons of its promising future.
While creating Lakes Marion and Moultrie, workers dammed the Cooper River and built the 75-foot-high Pinopolis dam. A diversion canal six and a half miles long connects the two lakes. Both have access to the Intercoastal Waterway, meaning that Lake Marion residents can boat all the way to Charleston and the Atlantic Ocean if they wish.
A Record-Setting Fishing Spot
Because Lake Marion still contains many live Cypress trees and stumps, it boasts excellent fishing prospects. The lake waterscapes range from shallow swamps and backwater ponds to open waters, providing plentiful opportunities for various types of fishing.
Containing a prolific fish population, Lake Marion showcases large bass, crappie, white perch, channel catfish, bream, striped bass, shellcrackers, chain pickerel, white bass, and Arkansas blue catfish. However, anglers claim that large bass and catfish are the most abundant species in the lake. Accordingly, the lake holds the state record for largemouth bass, with a catch weighing in at 16.2 pounds.
Endless Recreational Endeavors
Because of its colossal size, Lake Marion boasts numerous activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Sixteen boat ramps provide launching access from all sides of the lake, and the nearby Paddle Santee offers rental kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. And if residents want to explore more of the lake, they can consult Fish Eagle Wildlife Tours for a guided lake tour.
Additionally, Lake Marion’s natural landscapes are unbeatable. The Santee Cooper Public Service Authority mandates that at least 70 percent of the area surrounding the lake remains untouched. Furthermore, it is one of the best places to birdwatch in the entire state. Lake residents can spot various duck species, hawks, egrets, eagles, and osprey.
A Scenic Escape
With a small-town feel and endless outdoor adventures, Lake Marion provides an idyllic respite from the hubbub of city life. If you’re looking for a cozy family home or a peaceful vacation, you can find your secluded oasis at Lake Marion.