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Access Site SC

Kempsons Bridge

Saluda River • Bush River

Source: south_carolina_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

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City: SC
County: Newberry
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 34.14015523, -81.63040305
49R9+3R Wyses Ferry, SC, USA
Air Temp: --
Location
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Nearby Gauge Conditions
Saluda River near Prosperity, SC Same River 4.5 mi away
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Little Saluda River near Prosperity, SC Same River 5.7 mi away
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Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Saluda River
4 runs (2 nearby)
Difficulty Classes
I Easy II Novice III Intermediate IV Advanced V Expert/Extreme VI Unrunnable
Position relative to this access site: Put-in at this location This location is on the run Take-out at this location
Downstream from here Upstream from here
I-III+(IV) Downstream from here (31.0 mi to put-in) 4 - Lake Murray Dam to Broad/Congaree confluence
8.9 mi
II-III Upstream from here (46.1 mi from take-out) 3 - Holiday Bridge Hydro Station to Ware Shoals
17.9 mi
Whitewater data from American Whitewater
About This Access Site
Kempsons Bridge is a SC DNR-managed public access point on the Saluda River in Newberry County, offering a convenient launch for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats. The facility features a single-lane boat ramp, courtesy dock, and fishing pier, with paved parking accommodating approximately 11 vehicles and trailers. This location is ideal if you want direct access to the upper Saluda River, allowing paddlers to head west upriver immediately from launch.

The ramp serves as an excellent starting point for both day trips and longer river expeditions on the Saluda. For more information or to confirm current conditions, contact SC DNR at 1-866-SC-JEWEL or (803) 781-5940. Nearby, the River Bend Recreation Area (Recreation Area 4) provides an alternative access point with additional amenities if needed.