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Access Site SC

Clarks Hill

Savannah River - Lake J. Strom Thurmond J. Strom Thurmond Lake Savannah River

Source: south_carolina_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

City: Clarks Hill, SC
County: McCormick County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 33.67522746, -82.18894766
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
The Clarks Hill boat ramp provides access to J. Strom Thurmond Lake, the largest Corps of Engineers reservoir east of the Mississippi River. Located off US Highway 221 approximately 1 mile west of Clarks Hill in McCormick County, this ramp serves as a gateway to the lake's impressive 70,000 acres and 1,200 miles of scenic shoreline. The facility is situated near the dam, making it convenient for paddlers and boaters launching into the main lake body.

This access point is ideal for kayakers and canoeists seeking expansive flatwater paddling and excellent fishing opportunities. The surrounding area offers multiple recreation options including swimming, water sports, and picnicking. For those interested in camping or extended stays, Clarks Hill operates as a reservable campground facility. For more information about current conditions, amenities, reservations, and specific facility details, contact the facility at 800-533-3478. Please note that ADA accessibility is limited at this location.
Federal Facility Information
800-533-3478 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Clarks Hill is a popular park on J. Strom Thurmond Lake, just off Georgia State Highway 221 near the dam. The 70,000 acre lake and its 1,000+ miles of shoreline provide excellent boating, water skiing, swimming, fishing, hiking and picnicking opportunities.Recreation
Thurmond Lake provides some of the best fishing, hunting, and water sports in the southeastern United States. Anglers fish...

Overview
Clarks Hill is a popular park on J. Strom Thurmond Lake, just off Georgia State Highway 221 near the dam. The 70,000 acre lake and its 1,000+ miles of shoreline provide excellent boating, water skiing, swimming, fishing, hiking and picnicking opportunities.Recreation
Thurmond Lake provides some of the best fishing, hunting, and water sports in the southeastern United States. Anglers fish for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish and striped bass. The large lake offers endless boating, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing and swimming opportunities.

Hikers have access to many miles of trails in the area. The 1.8-mile Lake Springs Loop and the 27-mile Bartram Trail, which meanders along the scenic shoreline and through Wildwood Park, are nearby. Shorter sections can be hiked from several intersecting trailheads.Facilities
Clarks Hill is a wooded day-use area with several picnic shelters, some with electrical hookups. The shelters can accommodate groups as small as 6 and as large as 48. Amenities include flush and vault toilets, drinking water, a beach, boat ramp and dock.Natural Features
Hot, humid summers and mild, pleasant winters characterize this heavily wooded area on the shore of Thurmond Lake. A mixed pine and hardwood forest covers the site, providing summer shade and fall color. Elevation is 345' above sea level.

Wildlife is abundant around the lake. Visitors regularly see southern bald eagles, migratory waterfowl, wild turkeys and whitetail deer.
Nearby Attractions
Numerous parks and recreation areas lie around Thurmond Lake, providing additional boating, swimming, hunting, and hiking opportunities. Nearby cities house museums, art galleries, zoos, restaurants, and shopping areas.
The Augusta National Golf Club hosts the Masters Golf Tournament annually the first week of April.

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Nearby Recreation Areas
J. Strom Thurmond Lake Located within
Nearby Boat Facilities
Thurmond Marina On-site
Tradewinds Marina On-site