Pine Island State Park
Welcome to South Carolina’s 49th and newest state park! Pine Island State Park is a 27-acre island oasis nestled on the shores of the massive Lake Murray, located just outside of Columbia. Formerly a private corporate retreat for utility executives, this stunning piece of waterfront property transitioned into public hands in the mid-2020s, ensuring that its nearly 4,000 linear feet of pristine lake frontage will be preserved for everyone to enjoy.
Important Note: As of late 2025 and early 2026, Pine Island State Park is currently operating in a “soft opening” phase. During this time, the park is gathering vital visitor data to shape its final design. The park is currently open to the public on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Pine Island State Park at a Glance
- Location: 150 Pine Island Road, Columbia, SC 29212
- Soft Opening Hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays (9 a.m. – 6 p.m.)
- Admission: $6 for adults, $3.75 for SC seniors, $3.50 for children (6-15).
- Main Attractions: Picnicking on Lake Murray, expansive sunset views, and shoreline fishing.
- Current Restrictions: No camping, no public boat launching, and no swimming allowed during the soft opening.
What to Expect During the Soft Opening
Because the park is brand new, the South Carolina State Park Service is using this transitional period to evaluate infrastructure, parking capacities, and staffing requirements. Understandably, this means that some traditional park amenities are temporarily restricted while full-scale renovations (like the updating of the beautiful Sunset Hall event space) take place.
Lakeside Picnicking
This is currently the park’s biggest draw. Pine Island features numerous established picnic tables and larger covered shelters scattered directly along the water. Because parking is limited during the soft opening, all shelters are strictly first-come, first-served.
Shoreline Fishing
Lake Murray is famously known as the “Jewel of South Carolina” and holds immense populations of Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, Crappie, and Bream. Anglers with a valid SC fishing license can cast directly from the expansive 4,000 feet of island shoreline.
Exploring the Island
Despite the current restrictions on camping and swimming, a day trip to Pine Island is incredibly relaxing. The western edge of the island is ringed by paved walking and biking paths that offer completely unobstructed views across miles of open water. Because it faces directly west, the park was intentionally designed to capture some of the most spectacular sunsets over Lake Murray.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the island’s isolation makes it a fantastic spot for casual bird watching. Large predatory birds like Bald Eagles and Osprey are frequently seen hunting over the lake, while inquisitive Great Blue Herons often stalk the shorelines.
| Park Facility | Current Status & Availability |
|---|---|
| The Marina | There is a 38-slip marina on the island equipped with water and electricity. Currently, these slips are leased out on 12-month terms. The boat ramps are strictly reserved for slip-holders only; there is no public boat launching. |
| Visitor Center | The park office and store are active! Visitors can stop in to purchase cold snacks, ice, basic fishing bait and tackle, as well as official park apparel and souvenirs. |
| Sunset Hall | The island’s historic clubhouse, known for its massive lake-view windows, is currently undergoing extensive renovations and is expected to become one of the premier wedding and event venues in the Columbia area. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog to Pine Island?
Yes, pets are welcome in most outdoor areas of the park! However, they must be kept on a physical leash no longer than six feet at all times to protect the local wildlife and other guests.
When will swimming and camping be allowed?
Camping is not currently planned for this 27-acre day-use park. Swimming is strictly prohibited during the soft opening (October 2025 – March 2026), but the park service is actively evaluating the shoreline to determine if and where a designated swim beach might be safely established in the future.
Is there public Wi-Fi on the island?
No. Currently, there is no public Wi-Fi available at Pine Island State Park. Visitors are encouraged to unplug and enjoy the natural serenity of Lake Murray.
Discover South Carolina’s Newest Park
Be among the first to explore the pristine shores of Pine Island on Lake Murray.
📍 Location: 150 Pine Island Road, Columbia, SC 29212
🌐 Official Website: South Carolina State Parks – Pine Island
🕒 Soft Opening Hours: Tues, Thurs, Sat (9am – 6pm)
