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South Carolina paddling scene. Backdrop for the Paddling Hubs South Carolina outfitter directory

Outfitters · South Carolina

Outfitters in South Carolina

Paddle 22 outfitters across South Carolina. Maps, hours, contact info, photos, and verified operator profiles, all in one place.

Lowcountry marsh, the Blue Ridge escarpment, and Atlantic barrier islands.

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Highest rated

Outfitters in South Carolina by Google rating

Ranked by Google rating, then by number of reviews, across the 21 of 22 outfitters in South Carolina with 10 or more Google reviews.

OutfitterCityPaddlingRating
Charleston Outdoor AdventuresCharlestonPaddleboarding (SUP)5.011,655 Google reviews
Outside Hilton HeadHilton Head IslandGuided Tours5.01,714 Google reviews
Jack's Surf Lessons and Board RentalsMyrtle BeachPaddleboarding (SUP), Lessons5.01,148 Google reviews
Kokopelli Surf CampNorth Myrtle BeachLessons5.01,076 Google reviews
Myrtle Beach Paddle Board & Kayak Adventures®Myrtle BeachKayaking, Paddleboarding (SUP)5.0778 Google reviews
Charleston SUP SafarisFolly BeachPaddleboarding (SUP)5.0697 Google reviews
J & L KayakingLittle RiverKayaking, Guided Tours5.0502 Google reviews
Carolina Salt Surf Lessons & RentalsFolly BeachPaddleboarding (SUP), Lessons5.0341 Google reviews

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22 outfitters in South Carolina

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Top camping

Most-booked campgrounds in South Carolina

Federal campgrounds in South Carolina that Recreation.gov lists for paddling, ranked by how many times they were booked in fiscal 2025.

  1. Longleaf Campground1

    Longleaf Campground

    1,834 bookings
  2. Bluff Hike In Camping2

    Bluff Hike In Camping

    484 bookings
  3. Woods Ferry Campground3

    Woods Ferry Campground

    438 bookings
  4. Hawe Creek4

    Hawe Creek

    119 bookings
  5. Modoc5

    Modoc

    44 bookings

Bookings: Recreation.gov, fiscal 2025 (Oct 2024 to Sep 2025).

On the map

Outfitters, rivers & creeks and camping in South Carolina

Everything we have mapped in South Carolina, on one map. Tap anything for its details.

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Tap a river to trace its course on the map, then open it for flow, access, and gauge data.

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Browse all 719 rivers

About South Carolina

South Carolina presents a remarkably diverse paddling landscape, stretching from the Appalachian foothills to the Atlantic coast. Its extensive network of blackwater rivers, expansive freshwater lakes, and intricate tidal marshlands offers a spectrum of experiences for kayakers, canoers, and stand-up paddleboarders. The state also harbors world-renowned whitewater opportunities, particularly in its northwestern corner, making it a comprehensive destination for all types of paddle sports enthusiasts seeking varied aquatic adventures.

Along the coast, paddlers can explore the tranquil salt marshes of the Lowcountry, navigating through spartina grass estuaries near historic cities like Charleston, Beaufort, and Hilton Head Island. Iconic blackwater rivers such as the Edisto, one of the longest free-flowing blackwater rivers in North America, offer serene journeys beneath canopies of ancient cypress and tupelo trees. The Waccamaw River and the vast ACE Basin provide further opportunities for abundant wildlife viewing and peaceful flatwater excursions, ideal for both stand-up paddleboarding and sea kayaking.

Inland, the Midlands region features major rivers like the Broad, Saluda, and Congaree, which flow through diverse natural and urban landscapes. The Saluda River, near Columbia, offers accessible urban whitewater sections for a unique experience, while the Congaree provides access to the ancient forests and unique ecosystem of Congaree National Park. In the Upstate, the Chattooga River, a federally designated Wild and Scenic River, presents thrilling whitewater rafting and kayaking challenges, particularly its famous Section IV, attracting experienced paddlers from across the globe. Large reservoirs such as Lake Murray and Lake Hartwell are perfect for extensive flatwater touring and recreational paddling.

When to paddle in South Carolina

Peak Mar–May, Oct

Full season

Quick facts

Rivers mapped
719
Outfitters listed
22
Best season
October through May

Trip guide

Know before you go in South Carolina

Confirm current requirements with the agency that sets them before your trip. Rules and fees change every season.

  • Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

    All vessels, including kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards, must carry at least one U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board. Children under 12 years of age must wear a PFD at all times when on any vessel under 16 feet in length, including paddlecraft.

  • Boating Under the Influence (BUI)

    Operating any vessel, including non-motorized paddlecraft, while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited in South Carolina. BUI laws are enforced and carry significant penalties, ensuring the safety of all waterway users.

  • Boat Registration

    Non-motorized paddlecraft such as kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards are generally exempt from registration requirements with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). However, if a paddlecraft is equipped with any type of motor, it must be registered.

  • Fishing License

    A valid South Carolina fishing license is required for anyone 16 years or older who plans to fish from a paddlecraft in public waters, whether freshwater or saltwater. Licenses can be purchased online or from authorized vendors.

01Do I need a permit to paddle in South Carolina?
Generally, no specific permit is required for non-motorized paddlecraft on most public waters in South Carolina. However, specific federal lands like the Chattooga Wild & Scenic River may have special permits or regulations for certain sections or activities. Always check with the managing agency for your chosen destination.
02Are life jackets required for kayaks and canoes?
Yes, South Carolina law requires that all vessels, including kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards, carry at least one U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board. Children under 12 must wear a PFD at all times on vessels under 16 feet.
03What's the best time of year for whitewater rafting in South Carolina?
The prime seasons for whitewater rafting in South Carolina are spring and fall, when water levels are generally good and temperatures are comfortable. Summer can also be excellent, especially for dam-release rivers like the Saluda. Always check current water levels and dam release schedules before planning your trip.
04Can I paddleboard in the salt marshes of South Carolina?
Yes, the salt marshes of South Carolina's Lowcountry are excellent for stand-up paddleboarding. The calm, protected waters offer a unique opportunity to explore intricate estuaries, observe abundant wildlife, and enjoy the coastal scenery. It's advisable to go with the tide for easier navigation and consult local outfitters for prime locations.
05Where can I find guided paddling trips in South Carolina?
Guided paddling trips are widely available across South Carolina, from coastal marsh tours near Charleston and Hilton Head to blackwater river excursions on the Edisto, and whitewater rafting trips on the Chattooga River. Local outfitters and tour companies specialize in various types of trips, catering to all skill levels and interests.
06Are there beginner-friendly whitewater options in South Carolina?
Yes, South Carolina offers beginner-friendly whitewater options. Sections of the Broad River and the Saluda River near Columbia provide Class I-II rapids suitable for novices. The Chattooga River's Section III also offers a good introduction to whitewater with Class II-III rapids, and many outfitters offer guided trips specifically for beginners.

Watch & learn

Watch & learn, South Carolina

  • YouTube

    Congaree National Park: 24 Hours Kayaking and Hiking in South Carolina

    Through My Lens

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  • YouTube

    Discover South Carolina's Amazing Lake Keowee

    Kayak7seas

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  • YouTube

    Discover South Carolina's Revolutionary Rivers

    Discover South Carolina

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Free tools

Your free outdoor toolkit

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River levelsLive levels for every gauged river in South Carolina.
River ExplorerExplore named rivers from USGS data. Filter by water type, with live flow where a gauge sits.
Do I Need a License?Whether your state's boater education rule covers a kayak, canoe or paddleboard, and the months you must wear a life jacket.
Route PlannerDrop stops on a map and watch distance and drive time add up. Export a GPX or share the link.
Skill DrillsInteractive 3D drills, one decision at a time. Pick wrong and you watch it fail, then learn why.
Gear ChecklistsPrintable, save-as-you-go packing lists. Tick items off and pull them up on your phone.