Lake Hartwell
USACE Savannah District • Built 1962 • 56,000 surface acres • 962 miles shoreline
Lake Hartwell
Great Day on the Water
Level is 1.3 ft below normal pool, water temp is a comfortable 76°f, light winds around 2 mph, no active algae or safety advisories.
What to Know About Lake Hartwell
One of the southeast's premier multi-state reservoirs, spanning the Savannah River between South Carolina and Georgia. Clemson University sits right on the lake, where fans boat to football games. Host to multiple Bassmaster Classics.
Boat Ramps & Usability
2 Ramps| Ramp / Access Point | Lanes | Fee | Usable Min Pool | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Hartwell Main Public Ramp Paved deep-water concrete ramp with courtesy dock and lit parking. | 4 lanes | $5 - $10 day use pass | 645.0 ft | Open & Usable |
| Lake Hartwell Resort Marina Full service marina with marine mechanics, fuel dock, and rental fleet. | 2 lanes | Free for slip guests | 642.0 ft | Open & Usable |
Full-Service Marinas
1 MarinasLake Hartwell Resort Marina
Full service marina with marine mechanics, fuel dock, and rental fleet.
Fishing Regulations & Species
State Wildlife AgencyLicense Info: SC DNR and GA WRD reciprocal license agreement honors either license on all border waters.
Regulations Summary: Top 10 national tournament bass fishery.
View Official Wildlife Department Regulations →Lake Rules & Boating Safety
All standard USACE and SCDNR boating laws apply.
Recent Community Reports
Washita river arm has excellent clear green water. Ran south to Wood Island this morning; no floating logs or hazards observed. Striper boils active off Soldier Creek.
Highport ramp had 4 lanes moving with zero wait. Dock hands assisted with tie-off. Sandbars near North Island are clearly visible in the sun.
Recommended Gear for Current Conditions
Heavy-Duty 3-Rider Towable Tube & Quick-Connect
Water temp is a warm 76°F—ideal for family tubing and towing.
USCG Approved Inflatable Life Vest (Auto-Hydrostatic)
Low profile, lightweight, and legally compliant for adult operators.
Castable GPS Fish Finder & Depth Transducer
Pinpoint submerged humps, river channel dropoffs, and school bait balls.
Affiliate Disclosure: When you purchase through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Recommendations are selected algorithmically based strictly on real-time water conditions and safety needs.
Featured Lake Partners on Lake Hartwell
Texoma Pro Striper Charters
Full-day & half-day guided striped bass fishing on 24ft custom center consoles. All tackle, bait, and fish cleaning included. Departs from Highport Marina.
Call for Booking: (580) 555-0199Lakeside Pontoon & PWC Rentals
Premium 24ft tri-toons with 150HP outboards, Bluetooth audio, and bimini tops. Double-decker slide boats available for weekend island raft-ups.
Reserve Online / Call: (580) 555-0144Living on Lake Hartwell
Considering buying a lake cabin, dockable waterfront home, or retirement property on Lake Hartwell? Water levels, dock stability, and flood pool buffers are critical factors in waterfront valuation.
USACE controls flood pool buffer of 5 feet above conservation pool 660 ft.
Clemson, SC
$395,000Clemson University town, collegiate lake culture, dynamic tech growth.
Anderson, SC
$260,000'The Electric City' with major hospitals, shopping, and waterfront parks.
Connect with a Lake Hartwell Lakefront Specialist
Clemson lakefront homes, private covered docks, and Carolina retreats.