Natural swimming hole
Hamilton Branch State Park - Strom Thurmond Lake
Lake · South Carolina
About this swimming hole
Hamilton Branch State Park occupies a 731-acre peninsula on Strom Thurmond Lake, a reservoir of more than 70,000 acres on the Savannah River. The official park page says swimming is permitted in the lake with no designated swimming area and no lifeguards, and the park's Top 5 list puts swimming in the lake first. Many of its roughly 180 lakefront campsites have direct shoreline access.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Depth | Open lake shoreline swimming; no designated or roped swimming area |
| Best season | May-September |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | 6 a.m.-sunset daily |
| Parking | Park and campground lots on Campground Road; many campsites are directly on the shoreline |
| Amenities | campground, playground |
| County | McCormick County |
| Nearest town | Plum Branch |
| Safety notes | No lifeguards and no designated swimming area; swim at your own risk; watch for boat traffic near the two boat ramps |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Hamilton Branch State Park - Strom Thurmond Lake?
Yes — Hamilton Branch State Park - Strom Thurmond Lake is listed as a natural swimming spot in South Carolina. Heads-up: No lifeguards and no designated swimming area; swim at your own risk; watch for boat traffic near the two boat ramps. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Hamilton Branch State Park - Strom Thurmond Lake require reservations?
No reservations are required at Hamilton Branch State Park - Strom Thurmond Lake based on current information — but verify before you go.
When is the best time to visit Hamilton Branch State Park - Strom Thurmond Lake?
The best season is typically May-September.
Is Hamilton Branch State Park - Strom Thurmond Lake safe for swimming?
Reported safety notes: No lifeguards and no designated swimming area; swim at your own risk; watch for boat traffic near the two boat ramps. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — swim at your own risk.