Lake Murray

Lake Murray is a large reservoir located in central South Carolina on the Saluda River, within the Congaree River system. Created in the late 1920s, the lake covers approximately 50,000 acres and was originally constructed for hydroelectric power generation. Its size and proximity to the Columbia metropolitan area make it one of the most prominent inland lakes in the state.

The shoreline is extensive and varied, featuring long creek arms, gently sloping banks, shallow flats, and numerous wooded coves. Submerged river channels, points, and offshore humps define much of the underwater structure, while a mix of developed and undeveloped shoreline contributes to diverse habitat conditions. Broad main-lake areas transition into narrower tributaries that retain a strong river-lake character.

Lake Murray supports a well-established warmwater fishery with populations of largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. The lake is owned and managed by Dominion Energy, which oversees hydropower operations, water-level management, and shoreline use while maintaining public access and long-term resource stewardship.