SUMMARY
Lake Hartwell is a popular destination for fisherman, boaters, and families from all parts of South Carolina as well as neighboring states. An artificial lake – it covers a large swath of land in the Upstate region and provides the residents of the area with over 960 miles of beautiful shorelines.
ARTICLE
Named for an American Revolutionary War figure Nancy Hart – Lake Hartwell is a popular recreation destination for residents of the Upstate region as well as neighboring Georgia and North Carolina. The lake is an artificial lake that covers over 56,000 acres and has a shoreline of 962 miles. It’s a popular area for boaters, fisherman, campers, and hikers.
Lake Hartwell, South Carolina is a state recreation area and is a popular destination for fisherman from all over the country. In 2008 – the lake played host to the 2008 Bassmasters Classic held in February of 2008. In 2000 – Terry McConnell pulled out the South Carolina state record for a Striped Bass from Lake Hartwell. It weighed in at 59 lbs. 8 oz.
There are over 80 public boat launch and recreation areas and plenty of natural beaches. The lake itself is very accessible off of Interstate 85 – and is within a two hours drive of a number of major cities including Atlanta, Georgia; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Columbia, South Carolina. In close proximity to Greenville, SC – the lake is a perfect day trip for the growing population of the Upstate region.
Besides being a popular recreation destination – Lake Hartwell also provides a number of fantastic real estate opportunities. The lake is a popular area for vacation homes as well as permanent residences. With such a large shoreline – there are residences of all types along the shores of the lake.
Created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1950, Hartwell Dam created the popular recreation area that the Upstate enjoys today. Lake Hartwell South Carolina is the third most popular U.S. Army Corps project in the nation. And besides the popular fishing and recreation areas – Hartwell Dam also provides vital electricity and flood control for the region.
There are many camping areas along the shores of Lake Hartwell as well as many popular hiking trails. A number of scenic waterfalls can be seen on some of the areas popular hikes. And besides the numerous camping opportunities – there are also many rental properties that are great for weekends, spring break, and family summer vacations along the shores of the lake. Activities abound for every member of the family. Whether it’s lounging on the beach or landing a bass from a boating adventure – everybody will have something to do while vacationing at the lake.
Lake Hartwell is a popular destination for much of the region – either as a day trip or a weekend – but it is also a popular vacation spot for visitors from other parts of the nation. It’s a fantastic resource located in the Upstate region, within a short drive of Greenville, SC.
Updated: January 2010