Feeling a whim to plan a day trip or even a weekend getaway – even if it takes place a few months from now? Sometimes, having a little adventure to look forward to is the best medicine for feeling cooped up and stuck in a routine. Dreher Island State Park is so centrally located in South Carolina that you can do both: take a day trip to check it out – and then, once you’re sold on how amazing this little gem is, plan something a little longer.
Located on three islands connected by a roadway, Dreher Island State Park juts into Lake Murray from the northwest side of the lake.
Lbouknight / TripAdvisor
It was once owned by Billy Dreher, but ownership of the island was passed to the state in 1990. A chimney remains of the old Dreher homestead and a marker explains the ruins.
Susan Pizzarello / Google Local
Day use visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, birding, fishing, boating, and swimming (although there are no designated swimming areas).
Debbie O / TripAdvisor
And for those looking to get a true taste of lakeside living, Dreher Island offers more than one way to stay overnight: two campgrounds, including spaces to accommodate RVs, five fully furnished lakeside villas, and 10 camper cabins.
Ed Komasara / Google Local
Prepare for glamping in style with all of the comforts of home in the luxurious villas that are available in two or three bedroom options. The park also offers 10 12x12 rustic camper cabins that provide a solid roof overhead and mattresses.
NonieMcD / TripAdvisor
Wake up to the sounds of nature and incredible views of Lake Murray. Can you imagine yourself here?
B.A. Suder / Google Local
One of the best things about taking a day trip to Dreher Island State Park is it’s centrally located within South Carolina — just 30 minutes west of Columbia.
Ben Childers / Google Local
For day use, the park is open every day* from dawn to dusk. Day use admission is $3 for adults, $1.50 for South Carolina seniors, and $1 for kids age 6-15. Children age 5 and younger get in for free.
Google Maps
Hiding in plain sight right in the middle of the open water, Dreher Island Island State Park is a big secluded treasure! Have you ever visited?
Lbouknight / TripAdvisor
Susan Pizzarello / Google Local
Debbie O / TripAdvisor
Ed Komasara / Google Local
NonieMcD / TripAdvisor
B.A. Suder / Google Local
Ben Childers / Google Local
Google Maps
*Note: as of today, the park is set to reopen on May 1st with limited capacity so overcrowding can best be avoided. The park’s visitor center should be reopen by May 11, and the park’s store will open on May 15. If any of this changes, you’ll find it posted in the orange tab at the top of the official website for Dreher Island State Park.
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Address: 3677 State Park Rd, Prosperity, SC 29127, USA
