How do I access Sanders Ferry?

Sanders Ferry is a public boat ramp in South Carolina. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Sanders Ferry?

Sanders Ferry 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 Sanders Ferry?

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

When is the best time to visit Sanders Ferry?

The best time to paddle at Sanders Ferry is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Sanders Ferry?

Water conditions at Sanders Ferry include calm, sheltered.

Is Sanders Ferry good for beginners?

Yes, Sanders Ferry 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

Sanders Ferry

Iva, SC · Boat Ramp · Public

Sanders Ferry is a public boat ramp on Savannah River - Lake Richard B. Russell near Iva, 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

Public launch on Savannah River - Lake Richard B. Russell in South Carolina. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Iva.

Paddlers visiting Savannah River - Lake Richard B. Russell in South Carolina can launch from Sanders Ferry, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

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. 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 10 min from Iva, Sanders Ferry is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Iva area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Sanders Ferry ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Sanders Ferry?: Sanders Ferry is a public boat ramp in South Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Sanders Ferry?: Sanders Ferry 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 Sanders Ferry?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Sanders Ferry?: The best time to paddle at Sanders Ferry is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Sanders Ferry?: Water conditions at Sanders Ferry include calm, sheltered.
Is Sanders Ferry good for beginners?: Yes, Sanders Ferry 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: 34.2565, -82.7408