Utilization of Launching Sites by Paddlers

The waters of Berkeley County are easily accessed due to ample launching facilities provided by South Carolina DNR, Santee Cooper, Berkeley County and various private fishing and boating oriented marinas. It is incumbent on all users of these facilities to quickly launch their craft and remove their vehicles to make the ramp available for the next person to launch or retrieve their boat.

The average fisherman or boater will normally load all of his gear in the boat prior to leaving home and when he launches his boat, he has only to park his vehicle and he is ready to depart the ramp.

In the case of canoe and kayak paddlers, it is often necessary to first off-load your craft, remove your gear from your vehicle and then load your craft for your paddle trip. It is suggested that you off-load your craft on the side of the ramp along with your gear and place your vehicle in the parking area. You can then leisurely load your boat and prepare for your trip without inconveniencing other users of the facility.

Planning a Paddling Trip

Generally speaking, 2 miles per hour is a reasonable paddling speed for the average paddler. Six hours or about 12 miles is a reasonable full day of paddling. Additional time should be allowed for rest stops, lunch breaks and swim calls. Care should be taken to ensure your trip will be completed prior to the fall of darkness. It can be both difficult and dangerous paddling waters in darkness that you are not completely familiar with. When planning your trips, always calculate times and distances based on expectations from your weakest or most inexperienced paddlers. Remember, you are paddling for recreation, not competing in a timed event. Plan your trip accordingly and allow ample time to enjoy your surroundings.