The small lakes at Sesqui, Table Rock and Oconee state parks are perfect for beginners who want to hop in a kayak or canoe and familiarize themselves with the basics of paddling. 

Once you’re comfortable with your skills, a 23-mile stretch of the slow-moving Edisto River connects Givhans Ferry and Colleton state parks and is perfect for day-long trips among the cypress trees. 

You can also try 50 miles of paddling trails in the Little River Blueway Adventure Area that includes Hickory Knob, Baker Creek, Hamilton Branch, and Calhoun Falls state parks.

Regularly scheduled kayaking and canoe trips are held at a handful of locations for paddlers not quite ready to go solo, or who want to learn about the natural and cultural environment of the parks. 

Cheraw State Park’s group canoe floats let guests watch the sun set over Lake Juniper as they paddle to the headwaters, and return to the park by moonlight.

Educational coastal kayaking trips through Huntington Beach’s salt marsh and the waterways near Hampton Plantation’s old rice fields set out regularly during the warmer months.

Not all parks allow private boats, but many provide half-day and full-day rentals.