Lake Greenwood extends into three counties Greenwood, Laurens, and Newberry counties. It is approximately 11,400 acres, and 20+ miles long with 212 miles of shoreline. The lake was formed by a hydroelectric dam built across the Saluda River between 1935 and 1940. While the lake extends into three counties, Greenwood County owns the entire lake bed.

Lake Greenwood is one of the most popular lakes in South Carolina and because the lake provides both drinking water and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors, the governments both local and federal have all stepped up to maintain the lake’s water levels and protect its habitat. 

Access to Lake Greenwood

Lake Greenwood can be accessed through Lake Greenwood State Park located in Greenwood, SC.

From Greenwood, take Hwy 72 for approximately 6 mi., turn right onto Hwy 246. Travel approximately 5 mi. and turn left onto Hwy 702, the park is located 7 mi. on the left.

Public Boat Ramps at Lake Greenwood

Greenwood Access Area
Ninety Six HWY (SC HWY 34)

Two lane boat ramp, courtesy dock and paved parking for approximately 39 vehicle/trailers

Greenwood Shores
Pinelake DR
Ninety Six, SC 29666

One lane boat ramp with very limited dirt parking.

Greenwood State Park
State Park RD
Ninety Six, SC 29666

Two seperate boat launch sites, Park ramp and campground ramp. Park ramp – two lane boat ramp, courtesy dock, picnic shelters and paved parking for approx. 33 vehicle/trailers.

Laurens Shrine Club
Shrine Club RD
Waterloo, SC 29384


Two lane boat ramp and grass parking across street for approximately 15 vehicle/trailers.

Souls Harbor
Ridge RD
Hodges, SC 29653


One lane boat ramp with very limited dirt parking.

Lake Greenwood Rules and Regulations

Greenwood County Council has enacted an ordinance that regulates activities within Lake Greenwood. Before conducting or participating in any recreational activities on Lake Greenwood, please read through the Lake Greenwood Regulations.

Before heading to a fishing spot on Lake Greenwood, you must have a fishing license. Much like any other state, a fishing license is required for all people age 16 and older in South Carolina. Check the Lake Greenwood fishing regulations.

Recreation in Lake Greenwood

Lake Greenwood is the perfect weekend getaway. It’s a great place to relax and do outdoor activities. You can hike or bike in one of Greenwood’s local trails or retreat for the weekend and camp out at the local state park.

Lake Greenwood’s freshwater lake is fed by the Saluda and Reedy River. It is a popular destination for boating, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, skiing, wakeboarding, and other water sports.

For fishing enthusiasts the lake is abundant in Large Mouth Bass, Crappie, Bream, Striped Bass, White Bass, White Perch, Catfish, or Pickerel.

Check out other things to do near Lake Greenwood.

Restaurants in and around Lake Greenwood

  • Skippers on Lake Greenwood
  • Break on the Lake
  • Harris Landing
  • Bermuda at Stoney Point
  • Seasons by the Lake
  • Lee’s Barbecue & Catering Service
  • Woody’s NY Pizza
  • Boun’s Hibachi Greenwood

Click here to see more information about these Lake Greenwood restaurants.

Lake Greenwood Distance from Hot Spots

Lake Greenwood is known for recreational boating, fishing, camping, and more but what is the distance from Lake Greenwood from other popular cities?

60 miles from downtown Columbia, SC
Augusta Georgia
65 miles from Augusta, GA
71 miles from downtown Greenville, SC

Real Estate in Lake Greenwood

Residential and commercial uses adjoining Lake Greenwood have contributed tremendously to the economic development of Greenwood. Lake Greenwood real estate offers a variety of options from low maintenance condos to larger lakefront homes and lakefront land for sale.

Click here to see homes for sale in Lake Greenwood.

Rental Homes in Lake Greenwood

Lake Greenwood offers rental properties with panoramic views and magnificent waterfront. Some offering private dock and private boat ramp. Whether you’re traveling with family or with friends you will find vacation homes or rental properties in Lake Greenwood.