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Photo by Matt Benson on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Staples Lake

Hemingway, SC · Boat Ramp · Public

Staples Lake is a public boat ramp on Great Pee Dee River near Hemingway, 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

Limited

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

About This Location

Staples Lake offers river paddling on Great Pee Dee River in South Carolina. Located near Hemingway.

Located in South Carolina, Staples Lake puts you on Great Pee Dee River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

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 Hemingway takes about 10 min, putting Staples Lake within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

  • Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Staples Lake?
Staples Lake is a public boat ramp in South Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Staples Lake?
Staples Lake supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Staples Lake?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Staples Lake?
The best time to paddle at Staples Lake is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Staples Lake?
Water conditions at Staples Lake include mild current.
Is Staples Lake good for beginners?
Yes, Staples Lake 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: 33.7853, -79.3237

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~10 min from Hemingway
Get Directions

33.7853, -79.3237

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