Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Hattons Ford
Hattons Ford is a public boat ramp on Tugaloo River - Lake Hartwell near Townville, South Carolina. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.
At a Glance
Water Body
Lake
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Boat Ramp accessing Tugaloo River - Lake Hartwell near Townville, South Carolina. calm and sheltered conditions.
Hattons Ford provides shoreline access to Tugaloo River - Lake Hartwell in South Carolina, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.
Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.
Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
At about 5 min from Townville, Hattons Ford is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Townville area.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Hattons Ford ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
- •Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
- •Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
- •If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Hattons Ford?
- Hattons Ford is a public boat ramp in South Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Hattons Ford?
- Hattons Ford supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Hattons Ford?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Hattons Ford?
- The best time to paddle at Hattons Ford is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Hattons Ford?
- Water conditions at Hattons Ford include calm, sheltered.
- Is Hattons Ford good for beginners?
- Yes, Hattons Ford is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 34.4817, -82.8720
Quick Facts
- State
- South Carolina
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Townville
34.4817, -82.8720
Best Paddling in South Carolina
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Lake Hartwell
6 other launches on this water body

Weldon
South Carolina · 0.3 mi
Double Springs
South Carolina · 0.6 mi
Glenn Ford Access Area
South Carolina · 4.2 mi
Durham Access Area
South Carolina · 5.7 mi

Fairplay
South Carolina · 7.6 mi
Lake Hartwell State Park
South Carolina · 9.0 mi
Nearby Paddling

Weldon
South Carolina · 0.3 mi
Double Springs
South Carolina · 0.6 mi
Mary Ann Branch
Georgia · 1.1 mi
Crawfords Ferry
Georgia · 1.4 mi

Apple Island
South Carolina · 2.6 mi
Jarrett Access Area
South Carolina · 3.0 mi