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, as you can see on this Dreher Island State Park map, the park juts into Lake Murray from the northwest side of the lake.
Google Maps
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 of Dreher Island State Park can enjoy picnicking, hiking, birding, fishing, boating, and swimming (although there are no designated swimming areas).
Debbie O / TripAdvisor
This park has long been a popular location and launching spot for national fishing tournaments and participates in the Tackle Loaner Program, which is sponsored by the S.C. Deptartment of Natural Resources. Rods and reels are available for loan at the park store.
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.
Dreher Island State Park
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

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AnneMarie/OIYS
Wake up to the sounds of nature and incredible views of Lake Murray. Can you imagine yourself here?
B.A. Suder / Google Local
Both sunrises and sunsets are always beautiful against the backdrop of Lake Murray, as you can see from these Dreher Island State Park photos.
AnneMarie/OIYS
When my family visited Dreher Island State Park, it was just for a few hours. We spent an afternoon exploring the park and took some time to walk along the Billy Dreher Nature Trail, which is just one of three park trails. It's only about a third of a mile in length and is a very easy trail, suitable for most anyone. The ruins of the old homestead are found along this trail and are interesting to see.

We also walked along the lakeshore and around where the cabins are located. We've considered coming back sometime for an overnight stay. It's a quiet and peaceful setting, perfect for a weekend escape into nature.
One of the best things about taking a day trip to Dreher Island State Park is it's centrally located within South Carolina and 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.
Lbouknight / TripAdvisor

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? Be sure to check out our hiking essentials guide beforehand so you can be prepared!

*Note: There may be times the park is open with limited capacity so overcrowding can best be avoided. You can check for updates on the park’s hours at the official website for Dreher Island State Park.

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Dreher Island State Park & Related Info

AnneMarie | February 22, 2024

What are the best things about living in South Carolina?

Living in South Carolina is the absolute best! And for many reasons, but a few of our favorite things about living in this beautiful state include:

  • The weather – No matter which part of the state you’re in, you’ll enjoy about 7-8 months of warm weather, and even in the winter, the weather is generally mild for most of the season.
  • Budget-friendly – Having a cost of living below the national average is definitely a perk!
  • Beaches and mountains – Living in a state where you can drive from one end to the other in a single day and enjoy both incredible beach and mountain scenery is pretty amazing.

 

Check out more of the best things about living in South Carolina. It’s no wonder it was the fastest growing state in America for 2023!

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