Lake Murray Beach Park: A Publicly Accessible Beach & Swimming Area on Lake Murray
It's no secret that it gets hot in the midlands of South Carolina. This park is one of the few places in the Lexington area where the public can enjoy the lake without needing a lake house. For the cost of parking ($5) you can enjoy a sandy beach for the day without taking a two-hour drive to the coast.
Located on the Lexington side of Dreher Shoals Dam (commonly referred to as just "Lake Murray Dam") you'll enter the parking lot from North Lake Drive (Hwy. 6). The main beach area is just a short walk from the lower parking lot and often fills up quickly on weekends. On holidays, this space is packed very tight. Even though the park has a capacity limit, you can expect it to be filled to the brim on popular dates.
The Sandy Beach area at Lake Murray Public Park
Click photo to see 360° photo
Public Swimming Area
The swimming area spans over three-quarters of the length of the park and is cordoned off by buoys to keep boaters out. Most of the swimming areas have a somewhat rocky bottom, so water shoes are advised.
The large sandy beach area is groomed nightly leaving a level space for sunbathers the following day. You can easily launch a kayak or paddleboard here as well. I've even seen people on float tubes on days when the water isn't too choppy.
Food & Picnic Options
There are plenty of covered picnic shelters ranging from standard-size picnic tables to very large shelters located at the rear of the park (nearest the woods) which are big enough to accommodate a large group gathering.
Located in a building just above the main expanse of beach is a concession stand with a few covered places to sit and eat along with restroom facilities. The concession stand seems hit or miss as to its open hours, so I recommend packing food in case it's closed when you visit.
Speaking of food, there are plenty of places to have a picnic or BBQ, lay out a towel or a few chairs and kick back. There are barbeques available at some picnic areas, but you may opt to bring your own, which is permitted.
Plenty of picnic area and covered shelters
Click photo to see 360° photo
Walkway leading to the dam side of Lake Murray Public Park
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Tree-Lined Walking Path
On the upper portion of the parking lot, there is a tree-lined walking path that will take you all the way down towards the dam. The swimming area just down the slope from the upper parking lot seems to have fewer rocks and shells at the bottom, however, there isn't much of a beach in this area.
From this end of the park, you will find yourself near the spillway just below the expanse of fence covered in locks which is found up above on the Lake Murray Dam walkway. The walkway is not accessible from this area, as there is a fence preventing you from entering. There is a parking lot with free parking, however, just down the road from the entrance to Lake Murray Public Park.
If you're up for some budget-friendly family fun and you find yourself around Lexington, South Carolina, we think you'll want to check out Lake Murray Beach Park.
Plan Your Visit
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How much does it cost?
$5 parking fee (cash only). Season passes are available for $50 per car.
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When Is Lake Murray Public Park Open?
The park is open April through September - these dates change annually and generally seems to be the first weekend in April through Labor Day. Hours are weekdays 11 am – 8 pm, Weekends 10 am – 8 pm (cars begin lining up to enter often on weekends an hour or more in advance of opening)
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What can you do at Lake Murray Public Park?
Swim and float in the lake, snorkel (although prepare for a murky experience on busy days - maybe a better place to practice snorkeling), sunbathe, kayak, paddleboard, and take in the beautiful views
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Is there a Boat Launch Ramp?
No (however, there is on on the Irmo side of the dam which costs $5 to enter as well)
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Are there Picnic Shelters?
Yes, for small groups there are basic picnic tables. Some covered and some out in the open. For large gatherings, there are a few large covered picnic shelters.
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Is Alcohol Allowed?
No.
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When is the Best Time to Visit?
Weekdays, if you don't like crowds. Weekday evenings are especially nice for those who prefer their space.
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When Should I Avoid Visiting?
Holidays such as 4th of July, Memorial Day, and Labor Day draw large crows and the park fills up very quickly in the morning. If you can get here super-early on July 4th and can hold down your spot for the full day, you will be rewarded with a glorious 4th of July Fireworks show over Lake Murray. Otherwise - avoid.
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Are Dogs Allowed?
No pets are allowed on the Lexington side of Lake Murray Public Park, however they are allowed on the Irmo side.
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Are Showers Available?
No.
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Are there On-Duty Lifeguards?
No.
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Can you Reserve a Picnic Area or Shelters?
No, these are available on a first-com first served basis. So, come early if you want to use one, especially on weekends and holidays.
Article Updated: October 22, 2023
Authored by Samara Hart; wife to Kyle, mom of 4, and resident of the South since 2018. Exploring the South has brought me much joy. I love learning about history, photographing places, buildings, food, and things up close. But, my favorite thing of all is sharing the adventure with you. Learn more about me or what I do for a living on LinkedIn.