The 2025 Ultimate Guide | Public & Private Lake Murray, SC Boat Ramps & Access Points
This is the 2025 guide to Lake Murray, South Carolina’s public boat ramps and access points in Lexington, Gilbert, Batesburg-Leesville Prosperity, Newberry, Chapin and Irmo (over 650 miles of shoreline) that offer boat ramps, picnic areas, camping, and fishing piers. I’ve included Google Maps links to help you navigate Lake Murray. If you’re considering a home on the lake, I’m Patrick O’Connor, Team Lead for The #1 Coldwell Banker Team in South Carolina out of the Lexington/Lake Murray office, I live on Lake Murray, and help home buyers and sellers on and around the lake.
Dreher Island State Recreation Area
3677 State Park Rd, Prosperity SC 29127
Escape to Dreher Island State Recreation Area, a 348-acre park spanning three islands on beautiful Lake Murray. Located at 3677 State Park Rd, Prosperity, SC 29127, it offers significant public access to the lake's 12 miles of pristine shoreline. Park admission is generally required for day-use, with fees typically around $3 for adults and $1.50 for SC seniors, while children 15 and under are often free (2025).
Public access facilities include three boat ramps for easy launching onto Lake Murray, renowned for striped and largemouth bass fishing. Visitors can also enjoy bank fishing throughout much of the park (a SC fishing license is required). For day-trippers, there are numerous picnic spots and 10 reservable picnic shelters, plus playgrounds. While there isn't a designated swimming beach, swimming is permitted in the lake at your own risk.
Beyond water activities, explore scenic nature trails. For overnight stays, options include lakeside villas and numerous campsites suitable for RVs and tents, all providing a fantastic way to experience Lake Murray.
Lake Murray Dam Park Irmo (West Ramp)
2101 N Lake Dr, Columbia SC 29212
Located at 2101 N. Lake Drive, Columbia, SC 29212, the Lake Murray Dam Park (Irmo Side/North Recreational Area) provides public access at the northern end of the Dreher Shoals Dam.
This facility is open 24 hours a day, year-round, primarily serving as a public boat launch with multiple ramps providing access to Lake Murray. Amenities include fishing docks, picnic facilities, and restrooms. It's also a popular access point for the 1.7-mile Lake Murray Dam walkway, enjoyed by walkers and joggers for its expansive views.
While access to the park grounds is generally free, a fee is typically charged for using the boat ramps between April and Labor Day (recently $5 for single-day use or $50 for a seasonal pass - 2025). Reservations are not required for this location. Please note that swimming and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Pets must remain on a leash.
Lake Murray Dam Park Lexington (East Beach)
1832 N Lake Dr, Lexington SC 29072
Located at 1832-1834 N. Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29072, the Lake Murray Public Park (Lexington Side/South Recreational Area) is best known for its large sandy beach and designated swimming area on Lake Murray.
This park operates seasonally. For the 2025 season, it is open from April 9 through Labor Day (September 1, 2025). Operating hours are 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
Important Access Update for 2025: Entry requires an advance online reservation. Visitors must purchase a $5 single-use day pass (per vehicle) via Dominion Energy's website (Dominionenergy.com/LakeMurray). Reservations can be made up to three weeks in advance. Cash is no longer accepted at the gate, and passes do not allow re-entry.
Amenities include picnic facilities and restrooms. The park also provides access to the 1.7-mile Lake Murray Dam walkway. Please note that alcoholic beverages and pets are prohibited. Visitors swim at their own risk as there are no lifeguards on duty.
Putnam’s Harbor
1201 Putnam Dr, Chapin SC
Putnam's Harbor, located at 1201 Putnam Drive, Chapin, SC 29036, is a modern, full-service marina centrally positioned on Lake Murray. Touted as a premier facility, it offers extensive boat storage with over 360 spaces, including a notably tall dry stack facility and new wet slips.
Boaters can access a range of amenities such as a fuel dock providing gasoline (including ethanol-free) and diesel, electricity, water, and pump-out services. The marina features floating docks, a well-stocked ship store with boating essentials, snacks, and refreshments, and regularly hosts mobile food trucks. For convenience, there are also washroom and shower facilities available.
Putnam's Harbor provides 24-hour security, boat rental services (including pontoons and a luxury sailboat), and mechanical/detailing services. While offering long-term storage, it also caters to visiting boaters with its store, fuel, and other services. A boat ramp is also an available amenity.
Lighthouse Marina
1925 Johnson Marina Rd, Chapin SC
Lighthouse Marina, situated at 1925 Johnson Marina Rd, Chapin, SC 29036, is a full-service facility on Lake Murray, recognized as a South Carolina Clean Marina. It provides a variety of boat storage solutions, including dry stack storage for vessels up to 32 feet, along with gated covered and uncovered wet slips equipped with 24-hour surveillance. Daily and overnight rates are also offered.
The marina features a gas dock, pump-out services, a bathhouse, and a private boat ramp. On-site boat sales and service are available. A distinct highlight of Lighthouse Marina is its dining and entertainment options, hosting The Rusty Anchor restaurant for finer dining and Catfish Johnny's Outdoor Bar and Grill, which offers a casual atmosphere with live music on weekends. Both provide lakeside views and courtesy docks. Additionally, Lighthouse Marina offers pontoon boat rentals for hourly, daily, or weekend use.
Siesta Cove Marina & Campground
256 John Long Rd, Gilbert SC
Siesta Cove Marina & Campground, located at 256 John Long Rd, Gilbert, SC 29054, is a combined facility on Lake Murray offering both marina services and RV camping.
For boaters, the marina provides a launch ramp, wet and dry boat storage, trailer storage, and a gas dock. Fishing amenities include live bait, tackle, and a fish cleaning station.
The campground offers RV sites with water and electrical hook-ups available for various stay lengths. Campground guests have access to amenities such as showers, picnic areas, and a swimming pool. An on-site store sells refreshments, snacks, beer, and fishing supplies. Siesta Cove is also the location for Lazy Waves Pontoon Rentals.
Jake’s Landing Marina
220 Jake’s Landing Rd, Lexington SC
Located at 220 Jake’s Landing Rd, Lexington, SC 29072, Jake's Landing Marina is a full-service facility on Lake Murray, noted as one of the closest marinas to both Columbia and Lexington. It has a long history, serving the community since 1941.
The marina provides various boat storage options, including wet slips, dry storage for boats up to 28 feet, and land/trailer storage. Boaters have access to multiple launch ramps, ample parking, and a fuel dock offering non-ethanol gasoline both on land and water. Other services include boat maintenance and repair, pump-out, and boat cleaning.
Jake's Landing features an on-site store stocked with snacks, beverages, ice, beer, bait, tackle, and essential boating supplies. For recreation, they offer boat rentals such as pontoons, kayaks, and paddleboards. The marina also has a picnic area with grills and provides camper spots with necessary hookups and lake access.
Acapulco
960 Rock N Creek Rd, Leesville SC
Acapulco USA, located at 960 Rock N Creek Rd, Leesville, SC 29070 (sometimes referred to as Rock N Creek area), is primarily an RV campground on Lake Murray catering to long-term stays, though short-term camping is available if sites are open. It is not intended for full-time residency.
The campground provides full hook-ups (water, sewer, electric with 30/50 amp options) for RVs. Amenities include a boat ramp, fishing pier, a non-supervised swimming area, beach volleyball, laundry facilities, and boat parking. While it previously had a store and restaurant, current on-site sales are mainly limited to ice and firewood. Internet is available for purchase at sites, with limited free WiFi near the office.
Acapulco USA also offers a couple of fully furnished cabins for short-term rental and is a location from which Lake Murray Boat Rentals operates. Due to limited public bathhouses, it's not equipped for tent or pop-up campers.
SouthShore Marina
3072 US‑378, Leesville SC
SouthShore Marina, located at 3072 US-378, Leesville, SC 29070, is a full-service marina on Lake Murray, easily accessible by car and boat. It offers a range of amenities for boaters and families.
The marina provides various boat storage options, including covered and uncovered wet slips for vessels up to 60 feet, jet ski storage, and dry stack storage. A key feature is its year-round public boat ramp ($20/day fee, overnight trailer parking also available). The on-site fuel dock is manned for convenience, and a pump-out station is available.
Recent upgrades include the Southshore Grill & Grocery, an on-site restaurant and store with an indoor-outdoor bar. Marina members benefit from a private captain's lounge with an arcade, marina-wide WiFi, and laundry facilities. The ship store stocks boating supplies, snacks, and drinks. Boat rentals and a boat club (Carefree Boats) are also available.
Sunset Recreation Area
2180 Lake Murray Shore Rd, Prosperity SC
Sunset Recreation Area, located on Sunset Road in Prosperity, SC (Newberry County), provides public access to Lake Murray. Situated at approximately 536-650 Sunset Road, Prosperity, SC 29127, this site is designed for straightforward lake enjoyment.
Key features include a one-lane boat ramp and a courtesy dock, making it convenient for launching personal watercraft. Anglers can take advantage of the fishing pier. The facility also offers gravel parking for vehicles and trailers, along with a restroom.
While specific operating hours or fees for Sunset Recreation Area aren't always detailed, users should be aware that some public access points on Lake Murray, particularly those managed by Dominion Energy, may have seasonal fees for ramp use. It's a practical spot for boating and fishing access on the northern side of Lake Murray.
Larry L. Koon Boat Landing
1501 Shull Ave, Gilbert SC
Larry L. Koon Boat Landing (often just "Koon Landing") is a public access facility located on Shull Island Road in Gilbert, SC (Lexington County), providing direct access to Lake Murray.
This popular landing features two concrete boat launch ramps and a courtesy dock, making it suitable for launching various watercraft. Ample paved parking is available to accommodate vehicles with trailers. On-site amenities include a picnic area for visitors and restrooms. Shoreline fishing is also a common activity here. This site offers convenient access to the waters of Lake Murray for recreational boaters and anglers.
Murray Shores Recreation Area
122 Roberts Lane, Batesburg-Leesville, SC
Murray Shores Recreation Area (sometimes referred to as SCE&G Area #3) is located in Saluda County, typically with an address around 122 Roberts Lane, Batesburg-Leesville, SC. It features a single boat ramp, courtesy dock, restrooms, a picnic area, and paved parking for approximately 50 vehicles/trailers.
Lake Murray Estates Park
394 Ruby Riser Road Batesburg-Leesville, SC 29006.
Located in Saluda County near Batesburg-Leesville, SC, Lake Murray Estates Park (also known as Lake Murray Estates Boat Ramp) provides public access to Lake Murray. While the general area is Lake Murray Estates Drive, direct access to the ramp is typically via Ruby Riser Road.
This park features a single boat launch ramp with a courtesy dock, making it convenient for boaters. Anglers can utilize the on-site fishing pier. The facility also includes a picnic area for visitors and restrooms. Parking is available, generally described as gravel with space for approximately 50 vehicles with trailers.
Managed by Dominion Energy, a day-use fee (typically around $5) may be required for access, particularly during peak season (April through Labor Day).
Hollow Creek Marina
3340 US‑378, Leesville SC
Located on the south shore of Lake Murray at 3340 US-378, Leesville, SC 29070, Hollow Creek Marina offers a more intimate, family-owned marina experience. It provides boat slips and docking suitable for various vessel sizes (up to 40 feet LOA mentioned).
Key amenities at this Lexington County marina include a boat ramp for lake access and water hookups for docked boats. Positioned for easy access from Highway 378, Hollow Creek Marina aims to provide affordable boat slip options for those seeking a smaller marina setting on Lake Murray. For more details or specific services, they can be contacted at (803) 730-3044.
Lake Murray Marina at Marina Bay
1600 Marina Rd, Irmo SC
Lake Murray Marina at Marina Bay, located at 1600 Marina Rd, Irmo, SC 29063, is a full-service marina on the northeast side of Lake Murray. It's part of a larger waterfront community that includes residential living and dining.
The marina offers a variety of modern boat slips, including covered and uncovered options with concrete decking, ranging from side ties to 90-foot slips, all under 24-hour security. Key amenities include a fuel dock with ValvTect Premium Marine Gas and a ship store providing snacks, drinks, and boating essentials. Restrooms and private showering facilities are also available.
A significant feature is the on-site restaurant, Liberty on the Lake, offering lakeside dining with an extensive menu and bar. The marina also hosts Better Boat Rental for various boat types and the Lake Murray Boat Club, providing membership-based boating access. This complex aims to be an "Eat. Boat. Live." destination, conveniently located about 25 minutes from downtown Columbia.
Martin’s Landing Marina
849 Marina Way, Prosperity SC
Martin's Landing Marina, located at 849 Marina Way in Prosperity, SC, sits on the shores of Lake Murray. Formerly Buffalo Creek Marina, it provides services for boaters including boat docks, a boat launch, and boat gas.
Key features include: Marina Mart: A convenience store offering ice, bait & tackle, snacks, drinks, and boating necessities. Dining: Two restaurants, Martin's Landing Bar & Grill and Na'cho Margarita, are accessible by land or boat, with docking available. Accommodation: Lakefront cabin rentals and campgrounds (currently being renovated) are available. Other Services: Freedom Boat Club operates from this location. It aims to be a destination for dining, supplies, and recreation on the lake.
Big Man’s Marina
125 Big Man’s Rd, Leesville SC
Big Man's Marina, located at 125 Big Man’s Rd, Leesville, SC 29070, is a full-service marina on the northern end of Lake Murray in Saluda County. It's known for its casual, friendly atmosphere and is a popular spot for boaters.
The marina features a grill and store that serves drinks, snacks, and is particularly famous for its burgers, often touted as the "best on the lake." They encourage call-ahead orders. Essential marina services include a gas dock, boat ramp, wet slips, and land storage. Boat rentals are also listed among its amenities.
Typical summer operating hours (May-October) are extensive, generally opening early morning and closing in the evening, with the grill closing 45 minutes before the store. It's a destination for both on-water necessities and a lakeside meal.
Little River Landing
760 Hollywood Rd, Saluda SC
Little River Landing, situated at 760 Hollywood Rd, Saluda, SC 29138, serves as a local access point and convenience stop for those looking to enjoy Lake Murray or the nearby Saluda River area.
It functions as a fishing store providing bait and tackle, and is also known for offering quick food options like burgers and cold beer. The landing provides in-store shopping and onsite services. It is noted for having a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot, and accepts various forms of payment including credit/debit cards and NFC mobile payments.
While not a large, full-service marina, it offers a convenient stop for essentials and lake access, particularly for fishing and quick visits.
River Bend Recreation Area #4
866 Riverbend Pt, Batesburg‑Leesville SC
Located at 866 Riverbend Pt, Batesburg-Leesville, SC 29070, the River Bend Recreation Area (also known as Recreation Area 4 or River Bend Boat Ramp) provides public access to Lake Murray in Saluda County.
Key features include: A one-lane boat ramp with a courtesy dock for launching and retrieving boats. A dedicated fishing pier and opportunities for shoreline fishing. Picnic facilities for visitors. On-site restrooms. Paved parking designed to accommodate approximately 75 vehicles with trailers. This area is managed by Dominion Energy and offers a range of amenities for boaters, anglers, and those looking to picnic by the lake.
Macedonia Church Park
84 Macedonia Church Rd, Prosperity SC
Macedonia Church Park is associated with the Macedonia Evangelical Lutheran Church, located near 84 Macedonia Church Road in Prosperity, SC, directly on the scenic shores of Lake Murray and in proximity to Dreher Island State Park. Described in the past as being open to the public, this tranquil lakeside area reportedly offers a playground, picnic tables, and a gazebo for visitors. Guests have also enjoyed play areas in the water and an outdoor chapel sometimes used by the church for services, along with small peninsulas perfect for a stroll. While known for its beauty and well-maintained grounds, it was noted in a 2017 account that public restrooms were not available on site. There isn't specific mention of a dedicated public boat ramp directly at this church park, though it is a waterfront property.
Timberlake Marina
222 Timberlake Dr, Chapin SC
Located at Timberlake Plantation in Chapin, SC (with addresses often cited as 222 or 286 Timberlake Drive), Timberlake Marina is a significant facility on Lake Murray, boasting around 200-210 deep-water wet slips. These newly renovated slips, typically 10'x20' or 10'x24', include options with boat lifts and jet ski floats, and provide water and electricity. While situated within the Timberlake Plantation and Timberlake Pointe neighborhoods, the marina is open to boat owners regardless of residency within the community. It offers convenient paved parking adjacent to the docks. A key feature is its association with Timberlake Country Club, allowing boaters to dock for free at the marina and access the club's amenities, which include the only golf course on Lake Murray, dining, tennis, and swimming.
Rocky Point Recreation Area
415 Launch Ct, Chapin SC
Located at 415 Launch Ct, Chapin, SC 29036, Rocky Point Recreation Area is a public access point on Lake Murray in Lexington County. This facility primarily offers a single boat launch ramp for access to the water. Parking is described as limited gravel parking for vehicles and trailers. While specific amenities like restrooms or picnic areas are not prominently mentioned for this particular site, it serves as a straightforward option for launching a boat onto Lake Murray. Users should be aware that fees may apply at some public boat ramps on Lake Murray, particularly during peak season.
Hilton Recreation Area
1 Cove Launch Ct, Chapin SC 29036
Hilton Recreation Area, located near Chapin, SC, with an access point around 1 Cove Launch Ct, Chapin SC 29036 (off Wessinger Road), is a public facility on Lake Murray in Lexington County. This small, wooded area is situated on a cove and provides several amenities for day-use visitors. It features a two-lane boat ramp and a courtesy dock for convenient lake access, along with a fishing pier. For those looking to relax by the water, there are picnic tables and shelters, with some overlooking the lake. Public restrooms are also available on-site. According to several sources, access to Hilton Recreation Area is generally free of charge, and it typically operates from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Paved parking is available to accommodate vehicles and trailers.
Kempson Bridge Boat Ramp
2822 SC‑395, Newberry SC
Kempson Bridge Boat Ramp, located at 2822 SC‑395, Newberry SC 29108, provides public access to Lake Murray in Newberry County. This facility features a single-lane concrete boat ramp accompanied by a courtesy dock, making it suitable for launching smaller vessels. Anglers can take advantage of the fishing pier on-site. Paved parking is available, though limited, with space for approximately 11 vehicles with trailers. While generally accessible, it is noted that overnight parking is not recommended at this location. Specific operating hours and fees are not consistently detailed across information sources for this particular ramp, suggesting it may be a more basic access point.
Riverwinds Landing / Black’s Bridge
221 SC‑391, Prosperity SC
Riverwinds Landing, situated at Black's Bridge on 221 SC‑391 in Prosperity, SC 29127, is a family-owned marina on the upper end of Lake Murray. Operating since 2004, it provides a range of services for boaters and visitors. The facility includes a boat launch ramp, a marina store stocked with gas, bait, ice, and boating/fishing supplies, and also offers food and drinks. For those looking to stay, Riverwinds Landing features six deluxe camping cabins with various amenities. Additionally, they offer wet and dry boat storage, pontoon boat and kayak rentals, and guided fishing tours, highlighting its access to prime fishing spots on the lake.
Epting’s Landing
433 Eptings Camp Rd, Chapin SC
Epting’s Landing, located at 433 Eptings Camp Rd, Chapin, SC 29036, is a long-standing, privately owned access point on Lake Murray with a rich history dating back to 1937. Originally known as Epting's Fish Camp, it has been operated by the Epting family for generations, priding itself on a tradition of full service. The landing primarily offers a boat launch for access to the lake. Visitors can also typically find gas (historically noted as cash or checks only), bait, and snacks available on site. It’s known as a place where the owner is often present, maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for those looking to get out on the water.
Crayne’s Landing
26 Crayne’s Loop, Little Mountain SC
Crayne’s Landing, located at 26 Crayne’s Loop, Little Mountain, SC 29127 (often associated with nearby Prosperity), has served as a Lake Murray access point for fishermen for over four decades. This facility features a paved boat ramp, a floating dock, and a dedicated fishing dock. For visitor convenience, there is a cleared area for parking. A key feature of Crayne's Landing is the on-site Charlie's Mini-Mart, which offers a variety of essentials for a day on the lake, including cold drinks, snacks, live and frozen bait, and a range of fishing accessories.