J. Strom Thurmond Lake
Also known as: Clarks Hill Lake
Locations
USA > South > Georgia
USA > South > South Carolina
J. Strom Thurmond Lake: Description
J. Strom Thurmond Lake, otherwise known as Clarks Hill Lake, holds the prize as the second largest artificial lake east of the Mississippi River. A mind-boggling 71,000 acres in area, the lake straddles the Georgia-South Carolina border and welcomes millions of visitors per year. The lake's wide variety of activities and stunning natural beauty have made it one of the 10 Most Visited Corps Lakes in the country.
Constructed between 1946 and 1954 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Thurmond Lake's original use was for hydroelectric power, flood control, and water navigation. Now its uses also include water quality, water supply, fish and wildlife management, and, of course, recreation.
Truly a water playground, the Thurmond Lake boasts an incredible 1200 miles of shoreline, with beautiful houses and recreational areas accenting the green trees and flowering landscapes. More than 250 islands sprinkle the glassy waters, each created as the lake was filled upon the dam's completion. With a canoe oar or powerboat's steering wheel in your hands, each hidden spot of Thurmond Lake will be at your exploratory disposal.
Parks around the lake, both on the South Carolina and Georgia side, are filled with myriad activities for the lake visitor. Hiking trails abound, allowing for unequaled views not possible from any other location, and a sure bet if you're looking to get your heart rate up as you see the lake. Camping grounds offer a place to pitch a tent and cook up your evening meal. Playgrounds, sure to delight small children, are widely available and the perfect opportunity to give yourself a rest and let you kids make friends. So no matter where you stay around the lake, be sure to head to your nearest park and enjoy the facilities that are offered.
As on most lakes, water sports are surely a favorite at J. Strom Thurmond Lake. Whether you're keen to swim in the cool waters or just dip your toes in, you'll love the scenery that is all around you. Renting a boat is easy, and will provide you with the opportunity to see much of this beautiful lake, so put it on your To Do list. And while you have that boat, don't hesitate to put a skier or tuber behind you, as the adrenaline rush experienced knows no equal.
No matter how diversified your pleasures, you and your family will be sure to find plenty to see and do at J. Strom Thurmond Lake, so head on over to experience a vacation not soon to be forgotten.
J. Strom Thurmond Lake: Statistics
- Type: Artificial Reservoir, Dammed
- Water level control: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
- Area: 71,000 acres
- Shoreline length: 1,200 miles
- Normal elevation: 330 feet
- Mean depth: 36 feet
- Maximum depth: 180 feet
- Completion year: 1954
