While South Carolina’s Atlantic beaches attract visitors from around the world, the state's plentiful resources for freshwater fun often get overlooked. Come to South Carolina's southwestern border along the Savannah River Scenic Byway to explore a triad of lakes on the tranquil Savannah River. Accommodating water recreation activities ranging from motorized to manual, from high-speed to leisurely, the lakes are ideal locations to cool off after a day in the warm sunshine of the South.

J. Strom Thurmond Lake

Begin your trip in Augusta, Georgia, and head upriver. An eight-minute drive up the byway takes you to Thurmond Lake (also known as Clarks Hill Lake in Georgia) and over 70,000 acres of cool delight. Whether you kayak, jet-ski, or just like to swim, there are a million ways to play in the waves on this large and popular lake, which hosts seven million visitors a year.

Visit one of Lake Thurmond’s many parks and marinas, or the J. Strom Thrumond Visitor Center to learn more about the reservoir. At Hickory Knob State Resort Park, you can use the free boat ramp or rent various non-motorized craft. As the premier state resort park in South Carolina, Hickory Knob has a host of amenities to augment your boating vacation, such as restaurants, tennis courts, hiking trails, and an 18-hole golf course. Or try nearby Baker Creek State Park for a quieter place to boat, swim, kayak, jet-ski, use the paddleboats, or just get wet and stay cool on a hot day.

Richard B. Russell Lake

Just eight miles upriver of Thurmond Lake is Russell Lake, a quiet refuge from civilization which boasts fewer visitors but plenty of things to do. Explore this protected lake's rustic, unspoiled shorelines, lined with the dense mixed forest that distinguishes it from its neighbors. Explore peaceful side creeks, navigate the open waters, or enjoy the tranquility at Calhoun Falls State Recreational Area, where you can ski the waters without much concern for cross-traffic. Motorboats are permitted, but Russell Lake's wild shores and uncrowded waters make it the best of the three lakes for a peaceful, natural experience. Relax at the playground or hoist your anchor at the Jim Rampey Recreation Area. If you thrust your oars in the clear, calm water, you’ll be in good company -- Olympic rowing teams occasionally practice here. In the evening, stop at a lighted marina to see a setting sun touch the gentle waves.

Lake Hartwell

From Calhoun Falls State Park, drive 30 miles north along the Savannah River Scenic Byway to reach Lake Hartwell. Become one of the 10 million visitors every year to enjoy this suburban setting, which combines the comforts of civilization with first-class fun. With plenty of boat launches, places to camp, and friendly communities, both Sadlers Creek State Park and Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area beckon visitors to come and play. Cast off your troubles and try windsurfing on the nearly 56,000 acres of water. Waterski the Tugaloo River section of the lake, or sail in the wide "big water" of the lake's southern end. Check out the many marinas in the area for your boating needs as you explore the northernmost lake of the three. For a quieter day, swim and sun bathe in the cool, rejuvenating waters of this man-made lake. Lake Hartwell has something for everyone.

Whatever your tastes, you will find everything from calm waters to exhilarating thrills along the Savannah River Scenic Byway. Dive into South Carolina’s lakes of freshwater adventure and experience the fun for yourself.