COLUMBIA, S.C. — Warmer weather means it's time to hit the water and some of the best places to have fun in the sun are at our local lakes.
Dominion Energy has announced to opening dated for the recreation areas at Lake Murray and Lake Monticello.
Beginning April 10 and running through Labor Day, September 2, the Lexington side beach and recreation area and Irmo side boat-launch area at Lake Murray will open, as well as the public swimming area at Lake Monticello in Fairfield County.
“We look forward to welcoming the public back to Lake Murray every year,” said Billy Chastain, manager of Lake Management for Dominion Energy South Carolina. “While we understand the excitement warmer weather brings, safety is our top priority. We want visitors to enjoy and take advantage of all that the parks have to offer while still following all swimming and boating safety rules.”
There have been some changes this year: due to ongoing restoration work at the Lake Murray Dam, there will be no parking available in the upper lot on the Lexington beach side. The reduced number of parking spaces means the lot will fill up faster, so guests should plan accordingly.
Speaking of parking: parking fees are $5 per vehicle per day or $50 for the season at Lake Murray, there are no fees to use the Lake Monticello recreation sites.
Other details:
Lexington beach hours are 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. weekends and holidays, pedestrians can enter the park one hour after opening. No lifeguards on duty, no pets allowed, no alcohol on the premises.
Irmo boat launch area is open 24 hours per day, year-round. Pets must be leashed, no swimming, no alcohol allowed.
Lake Monticello is open sunrise to sunset Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. weekends.