
Activity
Conditions
Amenities
River Shoals Park
River Shoals Park is a public boat ramp on Saluda River near Columbia, 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
Boat Ramp accessing Saluda River near Columbia, South Carolina. mild current conditions.
Paddlers heading out on Saluda River will find River Shoals Park in South Carolina a reliable starting point with established launch facilities.
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 mild current. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Getting here from Columbia takes about 5 min, putting River Shoals Park within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.
Paddling Tips
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
- •Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access River Shoals Park?
- River Shoals Park is a public boat ramp in South Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at River Shoals Park?
- River Shoals Park supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at River Shoals Park?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit River Shoals Park?
- The best time to paddle at River Shoals Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at River Shoals Park?
- Water conditions at River Shoals Park include mild current.
- Is River Shoals Park good for beginners?
- Yes, River Shoals Park 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: 34.0468, -81.1906
Quick Facts
- State
- South Carolina
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Columbia
34.0468, -81.1906
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 Saluda River
5 other launches on this water body
James R. Metts (Hope Ferry)
South Carolina · 0.1 mi
Saluda Shoals (Lower)
South Carolina · 1.6 mi

Kempsons Bridge
South Carolina · 26.0 mi
Higgins Bridge
South Carolina · 32.0 mi

Dr. James A. Timmerman
South Carolina · 83.5 mi
Nearby Paddling
James R. Metts (Hope Ferry)
South Carolina · 0.1 mi
Saluda Shoals (Lower)
South Carolina · 1.6 mi
Lake Murray Dam
South Carolina · 2.2 mi
Jakes Landing
South Carolina · 2.4 mi
Columbia Sailing Club
South Carolina · 2.5 mi
Cove Court
South Carolina · 3.0 mi