Ben Ervin Park

Ben Ervin Park offers public access to the Black River in Williamsburg County via a double paved boat ramp and floating dock. The park features a picnic shelter and parking area, making it a convenient launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats. The site is located at the end of Ervin Road (State Road 688) off SC Highway 527, approximately 10 miles south of Kingstree via US 521.

The Black River at this location is a major waterway—a 288-mile stream with an average flow of over 10,500 cubic feet per second and a gentle gradient of 1.5 feet per mile. These characteristics make it suitable for paddlers of various skill levels, though the strong current and substantial flow should be respected. With an average velocity of 2.83 feet per second, paddlers should plan accordingly for downstream travel. The river flows through the Atlantic Coastal Plain with scenic swamp environments typical of the region.

Note that the park does not have restroom facilities on-site. Be sure to bring water and supplies, and check local conditions before launching, especially after heavy rains when river flow increases significantly.