Lake Greenwood State Park
An 11,400-Acre Piedmont Lake — CCC History Museum, 125 Campsites & Year-Round Fishing Near Ninety Six
Lake Greenwood State Park is a 914-acre park on the shore of Lake Greenwood — an 11,400-acre reservoir formed by the Saluda River in the Piedmont region of South Carolina, near the town of Ninety Six in Greenwood County. With 125 paved campsites, two boat ramps, an ADA-accessible fishing pier, and an environmental education center that includes an interactive museum about the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the park delivers one of the most complete lakeside recreation experiences in the South Carolina state park system.
Lake Greenwood’s 212 miles of shoreline and warm-water fishery make it a regional draw for anglers targeting largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish. The park’s campground — with full water and electrical hookups up to 50-amp service — serves as a comfortable base for extended stays, while the Drummond Environmental Education Conference Center offers programming and meeting space within the park. An EV charging station adds a modern touch to the CCC-era legacy.
Things to Do
Fishing
Lake Greenwood supports a productive warm-water fishery:
- Species: Largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish
- ADA-accessible fishing pier — one of the best shore-fishing facilities in the SC state park system
- South Carolina fishing license required
Boating
- Two boat ramps providing direct access to 11,400 acres of open water
- 212 miles of shoreline to explore by boat, kayak, or canoe
- No horsepower restrictions on the main lake
Camping
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Sites | 125 paved campsites (tent and RV) |
| Hookups | Water and electrical (20/30/50 amp service) |
| Facilities | Bathhouses with hot showers; dump station |
| Reservations | 866-345-PARK or southcarolinaparks.com |
Hiking & Biking
- East Shoreline Loop: Multi-use trail along the lake — open for hiking and biking
- Nature Trail: ~0.8-mile interpretive walk through Piedmont forest
Drummond Environmental Education Center
The John Drummond and Holly Self Drummond Environmental Education Conference Center includes:
- Interactive CCC museum documenting the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps in South Carolina
- Meeting/conference space for groups
- Interpretive programming and environmental education
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | ⭐ Bass spawning; comfortable camping; dogwood/azalea blooming; wildflowers | Variable weather; weekends filling early |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | ⭐ Full lake recreation; all facilities open; camping peak; long days | Hot & humid (90°F+); busy weekends; reserve early |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Cooler camping; excellent bass fishing; Piedmont foliage; quieter | Shorter days; check Education Center hours |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Year-round camping; winter fishing (striped bass peak); solitude | Cold mornings; some facilities reduced; check availability |
Visitor Tips
- 50-amp service: Lake Greenwood is one of the few South Carolina state parks offering 50-amp electrical hookups — ideal for larger RVs and extended stays.
- CCC museum: The Drummond Center’s interactive CCC museum is worth a visit even if you’re not camping — it documents the role of Depression-era workers in building South Carolina’s state park system.
- EV charging: An EV charging station is available at the park — a practical amenity for electric vehicle owners on road trips through the Piedmont.
- Ninety Six NHS: The nearby Ninety Six National Historic Site (8 miles) preserves a Revolutionary War battlefield and colonial-era trading post — a worthwhile side trip for history enthusiasts.
- Pet-friendly: Leashed pets (max 6-foot leash) are welcome in most outdoor areas of the park.
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available at the Drummond Center and park office only — not at the campground. Plan accordingly for digital detox.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wildlife & Nature
Lake Greenwood SP — on Lake Greenwood (11,400 acres). The park’s lake, piedmont forest, and shoreline support bald eagles, ospreys, and white-tailed deer. Largemouth bass, striped bass, and crappie fill the lake.
Nearby Attractions
Greenwood — nearby — “The Festival City”. Lake Greenwood — at the park.
How big is Lake Greenwood?
Lake Greenwood is an 11,400-acre reservoir with 212 miles of shoreline, formed by the Saluda River in the South Carolina Piedmont. The state park occupies 914 acres on the lake’s shore and provides two boat ramps for full access to the lake. There are no horsepower restrictions on the main lake, making it suitable for both fishing boats and recreational watercraft.
Does Lake Greenwood State Park have full hookup camping?
Lake Greenwood State Park offers 125 paved campsites with water and electrical hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp service). The campground includes bathhouses with hot showers and a dump station. Reservations can be made through the South Carolina State Parks website or by calling 866-345-PARK. Year-round camping is available, though peak season (summer) requires advance booking.
Last updated: April 2026
