How do I access Hickory Knob State Park?

Hickory Knob State Park is a public boat ramp in South Carolina. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Hickory Knob State Park?

Hickory Knob State Park 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 Hickory Knob State Park?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Hickory Knob State Park?

The best time to paddle at Hickory Knob State Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Hickory Knob State Park?

Water conditions at Hickory Knob State Park include calm, sheltered.

Is Hickory Knob State Park good for beginners?

Yes, Hickory Knob State Park 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.

aerial photography of boats at river with trees

Photo by Brennon Williamson on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Hickory Knob State Park

Mount Carmel, SC · Boat Ramp · Public

Hickory Knob State Park is a public boat ramp on Savannah River - Lake J. Strom Thurmond near Mount Carmel, 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

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Lake access at Hickory Knob State Park near Mount Carmel, South Carolina. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Savannah River - Lake J. Strom Thurmond in South Carolina, Hickory Knob State Park is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Mount Carmel takes about 10 min, putting Hickory Knob State Park within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Hickory Knob State Park ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Hickory Knob State Park?: Hickory Knob State Park is a public boat ramp in South Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Hickory Knob State Park?: Hickory Knob State Park 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 Hickory Knob State Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Hickory Knob State Park?: The best time to paddle at Hickory Knob State Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Hickory Knob State Park?: Water conditions at Hickory Knob State Park include calm, sheltered.
Is Hickory Knob State Park good for beginners?: Yes, Hickory Knob State Park 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: 33.8828, -82.4286