Lake Murray

Lake Murray is located in Central South Carolina and borders several counties to include Lexington, Richland, Newberry and Saluda. The Saluda Dam (officially the Dreher Shoals Dam also commonly referred to as the Lake Murray Dam) was completed in 1930 and at the time of its completion was the largest “earthen” dam in the world. Lake Murray was also the largest man made lake housing over 50,000 acres with 650 miles of shoreline. At the widest part Lake Murray is 14 miles wide and measures 41 miles long. The lake was named after the chief engineer of the Saluda Dam, William S. Murray and was created to serve as a source of hydroelectric power for the region. Present day, Lake Murray has become one of the main recreational attractions holding several activities to include concerts, fishing tournaments, water sports, dinner cruises and public access and beaches. There are several marinas and restaurants encompassing the lake along with public boat ramps making it accessible for all to enjoy the pleasures Lake Murray has to offer.

A popular place for guided fishing charters and tournaments Lake Murray is home to many types of fish to include White Perch, Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, Redear Sunfish, Redbreast Sunfish and Bluegill to name a few. The lake also has its own bird sanctuary. Purple Martins roost on what is known as Bomb Island. It is one of the largest roosts in North America with 700,000 – 800,000 birds present at the peak of pre-migration which is typically in late July. The Island got its name because pilots in World War II used Bomb Island and surrounding islands for bombing practice.

Lake Murray is an excellent place to live or visit with many attractions from boating, water sports, kayaking, fishing, dining, bird watching or just floating around with friends. Call Southern Dreams Realty for your personal tour of Lake Murray and the surrounding area.