Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie:
An Overview Comparison
A BRief history
Here at Blacks Camp we have a prime location next to two of the largest lakes in all of South Carolina. As such, there is quite a variety of activities and things to do around the lakes, so much so that it may be a little overwhelming for newcomers.
We’ve created this overview and comparison to give visitors an idea of what Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie are like as well as a bit of their history.
History of the Lakes
Both Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie together comprise the Santee Cooper Reservoir, named after the energy company that owns the lakes. The reservoir is man-made, being the result of an early 20th century hydroelectric project.
Marion and Moultrie are connected by a six-and-a-half mile long canal, which provides an excellent, weather-protected area for anglers.
Lake Marion
Lake Marion is named after General Francis Marion, a Revolutionary War general who became known as the “Swamp Fox” for his use of early guerilla warfare in South Carolina.
General Information
- Size: 110,600 acres
- Miles of Shoreline: 511
- Average Depth: 13.12 ft.
- Max Depth: ~ 76.77 ft.
Lake Marion Fishing
Due to the fact that the hydroelectric dam project was shut down before the clearing finished, fishermen will find plenty of stumps, wooden debris and live trees. As a result, this freshwater area is a perfect habitat for the fish that live in the lake. Add in a healthy amount of vegetation, and you have plenty of places for a variety of fish to inhabit.
Here are some of the fish that you may find:
- Catfish
- Crappie
- Bream
- Largemouth Bass
- Pickerel
- Shellcracker
There are number of businesses that offer fishing charters or guided fishing tours nearby Lake Marion.
Is Lake Marion Safe for Swimming?
Yes, there is even a dedicated beach for swimming in Santee State Park.
Other Activities at Lake Marion
In addition to fishing and swimming, Lake Marion is perfect for water activities, such as cruising in your boat or canoeing across the lake.
Lake Marion is home to all manner of wildlife, making it a perfect place for bird watchers and other wildlife viewers. A prime spot for viewing is at the Santee National Wildlife Refuge.
Hikers will love to explore the Palmetto Trail, the premier hiking path in the area.
Lake Moultrie
This lake was named after William Moultrie, a politician and general in the Revolutionary War who served as governor of South Carolina on two separate occasions.
General Information
- Size: 60,400 acres
- Miles of Shoreline: 210.24
- Average Depth: 18.7 ft.
- Max Depth: ~75.46 feet
Lake Moultrie Fishing
Much like Lake Marion, Lake Moultrie contains lots of tree stumps from timbering along the shoreline. Visitors should exercise caution near the shoreline due to this. However, this also provides some habitat for various species. Lake Moultrie also features a 900 acre Hatchery with plenty of vegetation. A unique feature of this lake is that it provides a perfect place for striped bass to complete its life cycle, despite being a saltwater fish.
Here are some of the fish you may find:
- Largemouth Bass
- Catfish (Channel, Flathead, Blue)
- Crappies
- Perch
- Striped Bass
- Pickerel
There are also fishing charters and guided fishing tours that specialize in Lake Moultrie available through various independent businesses
Is Lake Moultrie Safe for Swimming?
While you can swim in Lake Moultrie, swimmers should exercise caution due to the aforementioned tree stumps in the shallow waters.
Other Activities at Lake Moultrie
Visitors can do many of the same activities as they could at Lake Marion, such as swimming, boating, canoeing or hiking. In addition, visitors can visit Moncks Corner, a small town nearby with several attractions such as bowling or strolling through the Old Santee Canal Park.
Visitors to the lakes may also be interested in day trip to Charleston, where there are numerous shopping opportunities and attractions.
1370 Blacks Camp Rd, Cross, South Carolina, 29436, United States