Kayakers paddling through a cypress-lined Southern waterway with Spanish moss

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Ricefield Cove

Nichols, SC · Boat Ramp · Public

Ricefield Cove is a public boat ramp on Lumber River near Nichols, South Carolina. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Launch into Lumber River near Nichols, South Carolina. Beginner level with mild current water.

Ricefield Cove is a public launch site on Lumber River in South Carolina, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

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

Getting here from Nichols takes about 5 min, putting Ricefield Cove within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

  • Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
  • Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
  • Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
  • River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Ricefield Cove?
Ricefield Cove is a public boat ramp in South Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Ricefield Cove?
Ricefield Cove supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Ricefield Cove?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Ricefield Cove?
The best time to paddle at Ricefield Cove is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Ricefield Cove?
Water conditions at Ricefield Cove include mild current.
Is Ricefield Cove good for beginners?
Yes, Ricefield Cove is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 34.2220, -79.1301

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Nichols
Get Directions

34.2220, -79.1301

Best Paddling in South Carolina

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Ricefield Cove

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!