Smith McGee

Smith McGee is a well-maintained access point on Lake Richard B. Russell (Savannah River) in Anderson County near Piedmont, SC. The facility features a 2-lane boat ramp, courtesy dock, fishing pier, and paved parking—making it suitable for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats. The site is conveniently located south of Clemson via US 76 and SC 187.

Lake Richard B. Russell is a major impoundment on the Savannah River with 9,899 acres of surface water and an average depth of 38.7 feet. The lake offers relatively calm conditions for paddling compared to the free-flowing river below the dam. With 16 boat ramps and multiple fishing access points throughout the lake, Smith McGee is one of several launch options in the area. Nearby Calhoun Falls State Park provides camping and day-use facilities if you're planning an extended visit.

The Savannah River itself is a major waterway with significant flow (averaging 12,815 cubic feet per second), so paddlers venturing beyond the lake should be experienced with moving water. For most recreational kayakers and canoeists, the calmer lake environment is the primary draw at this access point.