Top SC Lakes

             Comparing Lake Front Property in SC

Buster Boyd Bridge at Lake Wylie

There’s little doubt that South Carolina is king of lakefront homes and condos. According to SCLakes.com, there are eleven popular lakes in South Carolina: Greenwood, Jocassee, Moultrie, Murray, Thurmond (no question what this lake is named after!), Wylie, Hartwell, Keowee, Marion, Russell, and Wateree. There are lakefront homes for sale on most of the following lakes.  So how do you choose which SC lake to live on?  Read the information below for that answer, or SKIP TO THE SUMMARY.

South Carolina Lakes

Map of Lakes in South Carolina

Lake Marion is South Carolina's largest lake, with 110,000 acres and a canal connecting it to nearby Lake Moultrie. Both are located in the Charleston area and owned by the Santee Cooper Electrical Cooperative, created to manufacture power. Marion is bordered by many swampy areas with an "everglades" feel to it - full of cypress trees and moss. Lake Marion is more shallow than Lake Greenwood, and has more brown water from tannic acid produced by leaves and woody plants. It was built over uncleared forests. Due to its development Lake Marion can be dangerous to unaware boaters and water sports enthusiasts.   The sheer size of the open lake creates large waves and an oceanic look unlike most other lakes. There are many Lake Marion waterfront homes for sale here, along with Charleston's many other water bodies; however some lakefront properties are leased from the hydro owner and not owned fee simple.

Lake Moultrie is smaller and connected to Marion by a water bridge called the Diversion Canal. At 64,400 acres, Moultrie is still a major water body. It has an oval shape which brings wind and waves that can make handling a boat best left to a skilled boater. Moultrie is most popular for fishing and is built up with campgrounds, marinas, and tourist facilities.

Both of the above SC lakes are near the coast, so consideration should be given to effects of tropical storms as well as differences in insurance coverage. Another consideration is that due to the blackwater ponds and shallow swampy areas, these lakes produce alligators, snakes, and reptiles commonly found in the coastal regions.

Lake Hartwell is US Army Corp of Engineers owned and maintained, and is one of the state's more popular man-made lakes. It is powered by the Savannah River and borders South Carolina and Georgia.  Hartwell has its own state park with several more along its shores. Lake Hartwell covers 56,000 acres which makes it considerably larger than Greenwood. In comparison, even though Lake Hartwell is deeper and larger than Greenwood, it has more problems maintaining water levels. This is especially true in drought conditions, as was evidenced as recently as 2008. At 22 feet below normal levels, it left many boat shells and docks on dry land and the marinas inaccessible. Water levels are now back to normal, and lake front property for sale is abundant.

With Army Corp owned/maintained lakes, the lakefront property owner’s actual ownership ends where the “Corps Line” begins, which is usually about 200’ from the water. Permission must be obtained for building personal docks. It is at the discretion of the Corp of Engineers whether for these, and pathways to the lakefront can be cleared since the homeowner does not own the access.

Richard B Russell Dam at Lake RussellLake Russell was formerly called Trotter Shoals Lake, and renamed to honor SC Senator Richard B. Russell. This lake is also owned by the Army Corps and has very little in the way of lakefront property on its 540 miles of shoreline. It is primarily a recreational lake now, although created for flood control and electricity production. Lake Russell borders Georgia and South Carolina and doesn't offer as many tourist attractions as some of the more popular lakes. Being a Corp of Engineers lake the same property restrictions will apply.

Lake Jocassee is a SC lake owned by Duke Energy Corp, and located in the state's western mountains. There are very few lakefront homes on Jocassee, and little development around it at all. Jocassee has one state park, Devil's Fork, and is most noted for the fishing opportunities it offers. The water in Jocassee is very cold but clear, which makes it a major draw to scuba divers. The SC lake encompasses 7,565 acres of near wilderness and offers few amenities. With the Jocassee's mountainous location, consideration to inclement weather and driving conditions should be given.

Lake Keowee is owned by Duke Power and a sister lake to Jocassee. With 18,500 acres and beautiful mountain views, lakefront housing is highly developed along its shores. Keowee is not a deep lake, but offers clear waters that make scuba diving popular and has two marinas, four bordering state parks, and numerous boat ramps to take advantage of its recreational offerings.

Lake KeoweeWith all its beautiful mountain glory, Lake Keowee homes are available for sale, but are more pricey than Lake Greenwood homes. "The Cliffs" is a very popular golf and lake community, and offers luxury homes for sale on Lake Keowee. There are also available homesites and lots along the shore. (Photo from www.scfishingreport.com )

 

Lake Murray is another haven for avid fishermen. Located northeast of Columbia and containing 500 miles of beautiful shoreline, SC's Lake Murray is powered by the Saluda River and one of the largest dams in the country. The Saluda begins at the border of North Carolina and also fills Lakes Greenwood, Wateree, the Congaree River, and the Greenville SC Water reservoir. Lake Murray has numerous marinas, restaurants, and tourist facilities on its borders. Being located near Columbia, it is a heavily populated and highly trafficked lake. Murray is a large, wide lake, and therefore subject to larger, rougher waves during storms. Lake Greenwood is longer and more narrow in shape, which reduces the rough waters and makes for easier navigation. Greenwood is still large enough for nearly all watersports, however.

Strom Thurmond Lake Property

Strom Thurmond lends his name to Lake Thurmond, which is called Clark's Hill on the Georgia side. This wide, smooth lake is owned by the Army Corps and as such has minimal shoreline housing development with varying lake levels. It's popular for water skiing, boating, and its 3 bordering state parks.  As with Lake Hartwell, Lake Thurmond has had problems maintaining water levels, particularly in drought situations. There are few if any personal docks and permission must be granted by the Corp of Engineers before personal docks can be built/installed - or pathways between the owner's property and the lake may be altered in any way.

Lake Wylie is a 13,400 acre lake that was created for hydro-electric power, but is also used as a recreational facility by its nearby towns - which includes the rather famous Tega Cay, known for the Jim Bakker/PTL Club extravagance. There are 6 public boat accesses, 2 nuclear power plants, and it is popular to both nearby North Carolina and its South Carolina residents. You'll find many waterfront homes for sale on Lake Wylie SC.

Lake Wateree is a Duke Power owned recreational lake popular with fishermen, campers, and boat enthusiasts. It has little in the way of housing or SC lake front property, giving the 13,000 acres instead to a large state park and Wateree Lake Campground. It is located along highway I-77 in Winnsboro, SC, and is noted for its pristine natural preserves and beautiful wildlife population, including egrets, herons, deer, and even wild turkeys.

 

WHY BUY A HOME ON LAKE GREENWOOD?


That's easy!


  • Not a Corp of Engineers Lake (50’ setback lines in most areas-25’ in others)
  • Private docks allowed (except in critical habitat areas)
  • 11,400 acres of uncrowded waters
  • 20+ miles long
  • 212 miles of shoreline
  • Affordability
  • Family oriented lake
  • Easily navigated waters
  • No swamps
  • No alligators
  • No tropical storm effects, worries, or expenses
  • No harsh winter weather
  • Great central location (convenient to both mountains and coast)
  • And the list goes on!

Call us for more information if you are interested in buying lake front property anywhere in SC!

Just A Few Extraordinary Lake Greenwood Homes

$1,200,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4.5 Baths ⋅ 131384 MLS
This home has deep water and tons of custom upgrades with an outdoor kitchen! Discover the epitome of lakefront living at 348 Nautical, a stunning custom-built home in the sought-after Harborside community on Lake Greenwood. Situated less than 8 miles from Greenwood, SC, with its abundant shopping and dining options, this spacious home showcases architectural excellence and thoughtful design. Perfect for empty nesters or families with older children, this two-story home features independent heating and cooling units for each floor and a luxurious first-floor master suite. As you enter through the impressive 8' double doors, you're greeted by sweeping lake views and an open floor plan with 10' ceilings. The main living area is beautifully defined by design features and is adorned with a neutral hand-troweled plaster wall, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The first floor boasts solid walnut ” plank hardwood flooring and walls of windows allowing tons of natural lighting. The chef's kitchen features a 15' island that seats five, an oversized sink with a designer faucet and commercial sprayer, a beverage refrigerator, a warming drawer, and ample storage. The kitchen is a culinary dream, featuring knotty alder solid wood cabinetry with soft-close drawers and pull-out trays, a mantle-style stove hood with a 600 CFM exhaust fan and light, flanked by spice pullout cabinets, a porcelain decorative backsplash with a pot filler faucet, and a professional-style dual-fuel 36” range with an oversized oven. The large pantry with built-in shelving offers even more storage space. A formal dining room is conveniently located off the kitchen and living area, offering an elegant space for entertaining and family gatherings. The master bath is a luxurious retreat, with a 10' double vanity, solid wood cabinetry, and a 6' x 5 ' walk-in shower with designer porcelain tile on the floor, walls, and ceiling, a bench, body sprays, a rain shower, a handheld shower with a slide mount, and a treated custom ” frameless glass shower door. The convenient laundry room, accessible from both the master suite and the kitchen, includes plenty of storage, a sink, and full-size stacking front-loaders. Upstairs, the home offers three more spacious bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a 400+/- sq. ft. attic storage area, complete with a separate 220 power line for an optional in-law suite kitchen. The third bedroom is oversized, making it an ideal space for a second family room or a theater. A large two-car garage features a heated and cooled 4th full bath and a work area. Additional features include engineered floor joists, Icynene spray foam insulation in all ceilings, walls, crawl space floor joists, and Solo Tube skylights by Velux. The outdoor area offers the perfect setting for lakeside relaxation and entertaining, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views of Lake Greenwood year-round, all while cooking, dining, and unwinding in comfort and style. The screened porch is a dream, complete with tile floors, ceiling fans, a built-in fireplace with a brick surround that extends to the ceiling, and a custom built-in outdoor kitchen featuring a grill, an exhaust fan, and a sink. The exterior of the home is just as impressive, with a tumbled brick faade and a complementary roof color that blends seamlessly with the surrounding mature pines and deciduous trees. The level lot features professionally landscaped grounds and a lush sodded yard, leading to a large covered dock with a motorized boat lift. The dock, constructed with Brazilian Ipe—a dense, insect-resistant exotic hardwood—boasts a ceiling fan, sunbathing area, and steps down to the water. With a water depth of approximately 10' at the end of the dock at full pool and a sandy shoreline, this property offers an unparalleled lakeside lifestyle. Call today for a private tour of this exquisite home!

348 Nautical Way, Greenwood
$925,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 131275 MLS
Rare opportunity for a true Lakehouse in one of Lake Greenwoods most desired subdivisions! This home features lots of craftsmanship throughout! You will notice from the moment that you enter the bright foyer and great room filled with natural light! Soaring ceilings with beautiful tongue and groove ceilings, extensive crown molding and large windows. The custom hardwood flooring compliments the custom stone fireplace that extends to the ceiling and the 75-inch TV and Sonos sound system with bar and subwoofer is included! The kitchen featuring beautiful custom cabinets, stainless appliances and gorgeous countertops is open to the great room, so everyone is a part of the party! There is also a custom butler's pantry with a second fridge, so you have plenty of room for all your perishables and a custom backlit wine cabinet with additional storage. Custom Shiplap Wainscoting really adds to the flair of the kitchen. Around a private corner you will find the lakeside master ensuite with a wonderful shiplap accent wall, great lake views and a custom bathroom including a beautiful shower, quartz countertops and large walk-in closet. Across the great room are two generous sized bedrooms and second bath. Up the split staircase you will encounter a huge bonus room that can be used for whatever your heart desires! It would be a great guest suite, a fantastic theater room, gym, yoga studio, craft room or any combination therein. Full bathroom and tons of walk-in storage. Outside it gets even more fun with a large screen porch with awesome lake views and even a TV to enjoy sporting events or your favorite shows! Adjacent to the screened porch is an open deck complete with natural gas grill and just a few steps down to your almost flat yard that leads effortlessly to a private covered dock with boat lift on year-round water! All of this nestled in the warm lakefront community of Summer Pointe. Community amenities include a beautiful lakeside swimming pool, inviting gazebos where neighbors often gather, a boat/trailer storage area, boat ramp and recreation area including tennis court, pickleball court and basketball court. There is even a community garden here! But it is the warm and friendly people that make Summer Pointe one of Lake Greenwoods best subdivisions! Call today for your private tour of this wonderful opportunity!

130 Gardenia Drive, Ninety Six
$1,250,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3.5 Baths ⋅ 131263 MLS
Waterfront living at its finest!!! This traditional style home is situated on a beautiful level lot, on the peninsula in the desirable and sought after Harborside subdivision. The interior is well laid out with split bedroom plan with over 3,000 sq feet on main level with gorgeous hardwood floors and additional 700 sq feet on 2nd level. Coming in through the front doors into the foyer, on right is a formal dining area, to the left is an office space (or a 4th bedroom if needed). Directly in front of you is one of two large living spaces with built in bookcases and a gas log fireplace. You'll notice right away the large windows on the back side of the home with fantastic views of the lake from every room and the double French doors leading out to the 10x42 screened in porch. Moving on to the right is another large open area that includes the kitchen featuring granite counter tops, bar seating, unbelievable cabinetry, stainless steel appliance, the breakfast area and another 2nd living area also with built in bookcases and a gas log fireplace. The master's suite includes a large bedroom with sitting area, walk in closets and door opening to the screen porch. Master bathroom has a large, walk in, tiled shower, clawfoot tub, double vanity with custom cabinets. Bedrooms two and three share a jack and jill bath and there is an additional full bath for guest. On the 2nd level is additional, approximately 700 sq ft with another half bath. The exterior is well maintained, has a very nice level, lot with walkway going to the covered dock with boat lift and seawall. The neighborhood has a low HOA fee with amenities that include boat ramp, a locked storage lot as well as lighted streets for evening walks. Make an appointment to come see this beauty today and start living the lake life !!

320 Nautical Way, Greenwood
$1,063,000
5 Beds ⋅ 4.5 Baths ⋅ 131237 MLS
Stunning Views! Fabulous neighborhood! Interior photos are coming soon, but If you love lake views, this home is for you! Lake in the front, lake in the back-This Charleston style home, located in the Plantation on Verandah Beach, showcases lovely Lake Greenwood sunrises from all three levels for the perfect "Good Morning!". Enjoy walking into the water from the quaint beach across the street or launching your boat from the lovely new covered dock with electric lift. Fishing is great in the cove, or down near the dam. If you love water sports, you'll be tubing or skiing on the widest part of Lake Greenwood! This immaculate 5 bedroom home has an elevator for easy access to all 3 levels and plenty of space for entertaining. Four of the 5 baths sport walk in closets. The screened porch provides protected outdoor space for morning coffee or evening socializing. The Primary suite offers a soaking tub and large walk in shower. As part of the Grand Harbor community, access to all their resort style amenities is included with this property. Take a look at Grand Harbor online at grandharbor.net.

158 Polo Ct., Ninety Six
$618,000
4 Beds ⋅ 2.5 Baths ⋅ 131205 MLS
Meticulously maintained, beautifully landscaped, and super-energy-efficient Lakehome in the pretty Eagles Harbor gated lake community on 11,400-acre Lake Greenwood. Built with Hardi-plank and brick, the home has a “lifetime” architectural shingled roof and a no-maintenance all-paid-for solar panel system that saves you hundreds of dollars every year. Sellers report electric bills as low as $12 a month from April-Oct! Cathedral ceilings on the main floor and 10' ceilings on the lower level make this 2- level home of 2042 sqft feel roomy and spacious. Enjoy an informal layout with casual dining looking out at the lake. Kitchen has cherry wood cabinetry, 24” tile flooring and a breakfast bar. All appliances convey, including the washer-dryer, and you'll appreciate the light bright Laundry Rm's utility sink and private outside exit. Nice that the Half Bath has a window and natural light! Like a warm fire in the winter? The LR's wood-burning, heat-circulating fireplace has glass doors and is stone clad to the ceiling with an attractive raised stone hearth big enough to sit close by the fire. Covered Deck off the Kitchen is “trex” type, has two fans and looks out over your lakeside greenspace to the sparkling lake waters. Charcoal grill stays so you can start grilling right away. Home offers up to 4 Bedrooms with the Primary Bedroom on the main floor offering a deep Walk-in Closet and a custom-tiled jetted tub/shower combo. Another room with Brazilian cherry flooring works as a bedroom or office on the main floor. A fully finished Walk-out Basement offers a Family Room with 24” tile, a lakeside bedroom with a slider door to the patio, and a back flex room ready for whatever you need- another bedroom, storage, workout area- both with handsome inlaid tile design work. The lower level also has your True Two-car Garage (22x28) with lots of storage cabinets and a built-in worktable. Lots of bells and whistles: a Solar Attic Fan keeps the house cooler from the top down. Two TVs stay. Canned inset ceiling lighting to spotlight artwork over the FP. “French-style” windows, doors and sliders. Upgraded vanities in all Baths. Convenient central vacuum system on main floor. New carpet in LR area (2023), new beveled glass front door (2023). New energy-efficient Heat Pump Water Heater (2023). New HVAC for the main floor (2023). Under Termite Bond. Per seller, an excellent well water system flows at 110 gallons per min. The engineered septic system was rebuilt in 2020, and is serviced annually, recently in June. Open parking and turn-around space on the concrete driveway near the Covered Front Porch. The Walk-out Basement leads to a 12x19 paved Lakeside Patio, a near- level green lawn gently sloped near the water (no flood insurance required) and an easy-care composite COVERED BOAT DOCK WITH BOAT LIFT. Your mini-cove location makes for a calm protected area. Floating ramp (used for a kayak), and the Dockbox for storage convey. Great landscaping! Lots of colorful trees, bushes and perennials adorn the greenery - rose of sharon, weeping cherry tree, Japanese maple, camelias, hydrangeas, even cold-hardy palms. Clean, well-fed Irrigation keeps it all healthy. Two lanterned brick pillars make an elegant statement at the driveway entry and property has two romantic lighted Arbors. Storage Shed (12x16) is handy for storing your garden tools. You'll appreciate the lake view every day, and the northeastern exposure facing the lake means you'll enjoy your outdoor spaces year-round. A perfect home for someone who doesn't want a huge house but wants all the benefits of lakefront living in a welcoming, gated community. (And don't forget the low electric bills.) LOVE YOUR LAKE LIFE!

716 Eagles Harbor, Hodges
$749,900
5 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 131204 MLS
PRICE IMPROVEMENT! Don't Miss Your Chance to Experience Lakefront Living! Perfectly situated at 123 Wateredge, your next home awaits, nestled among the trees and ready for its next family. As you enter the home, you're immediately drawn to the breathtaking lake view through expansive sliding doors that cover the entire back of the house. Natural light floods the interior, highlighting the warm hardwood floors and the stunning stone fireplace in the great room. The master suite on the main level is separated from the two additional bedrooms and a bath by the central living space, offering privacy and convenience. Enjoy the outdoors with a screened-in porch flanked by decks that span the length of the home. The walk-out basement provides versatile space with a second living area, two more bedrooms, and a bath. This home features a brand new roof, fresh paint throughout, and new carpet in the bedrooms. Located on Lake Greenwood, this lakefront property is a must-see. A true slice of paradise! Contact us today to schedule a viewing!

123 Watersedge, Greenwood
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