Sanders Ferry

Sanders Ferry provides convenient access to Lake Richard B. Russell (also known as Hartwell Lake), a major impoundment on the Savannah River near Iva, South Carolina. The facility features a two-lane boat ramp, courtesy dock, fishing pier, and paved parking area, making it suitable for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats. Vault restrooms are available on-site. The ramp is located along SC Highway 184 west of Iva.

Lake Richard B. Russell is a substantial body of water fed by the Savannah River, a major drainage system flowing across the southeastern United States. Paddlers should be aware that the underlying river has significant flow averaging over 12,000 cubic feet per second, though the lake environment itself offers calmer conditions. The landscape features submerged forest remnants visible throughout the lake—a characteristic that adds scenic interest to paddling but requires attention to navigation. Conditions can vary depending on dam operations upstream.

For more information or to plan your visit, contact the Hartwell Project Office at 888-893-0678. This is primarily a day-use facility, making it ideal for half-day or full-day paddling trips on the lake.

Overview

Elrod Ferry Recreation Area is a 39 acre site situated on a gently sloping point that overlooks the lake near Hartwell Dam. The site presently offers day use and boat launching facilities consisting of 1 gatehouse/entrance, 37 picnic sites, 2 standard picnic shelters with water and electric service, 1 boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, 2 playgrounds, 3 designated swim...

Overview

Elrod Ferry Recreation Area is a 39 acre site situated on a gently sloping point that overlooks the lake near Hartwell Dam. The site presently offers day use and boat launching facilities consisting of 1 gatehouse/entrance, 37 picnic sites, 2 standard picnic shelters with water and electric service, 1 boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, 2 playgrounds, 3 designated swim areas/beaches, 1 volleyball pit, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. The area experiences intense public use during the peak recreation season.
Recreation
Boating and water sports top the list of popular activities. A boat ramp is available for visitors' convenience, and three designated swimming beaches are located around the facility. Facilities
The site presently offers day use and boat launching facilities consisting of 1 gatehouse/entrance, 37 picnic sites, 2 standard picnic shelters with water and electric service, 1 boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, 2 playgrounds, 3 designated swim areas/beaches, 1 volleyball pit, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. Natural Features

Hartwell Lake is a man-made lake bordering Georgia and South Carolina on the Savannah, Tugaloo and Seneca Rivers. The dam and lake area boasts 8 campgrounds and 11 day-use facilities that are operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
The Hartwell Project was originally authorized for hydro-power, flood control, and navigation. Later, recreation, water quality, water supply and fish and wildlife management were added.
Surrounding vegetation allows for plenty of shade, and the 962 miles of shoreline provide numerous swimming beaches, picnic areas and boat ramps.
Nearby Attractions
Charges & Cancellations


A $10 service fee will apply if you change or cancel a reservation more than 14 days in advance of arrival date. If you cancel a reservation within 14 days of your scheduled arrival date, you will forfeit the reservation fee.

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