962 miles of shoreline on the Georgia–South Carolina line, and a lake the Corps is now holding low. Today's level, kayak rentals on Lake Hartwell, and where you can still launch.
In August 2026 the Corps of Engineers started holding Hartwell at 656 feet year-round, about 4 feet under the old summer full pool, because of seepage at a dike near Clemson. It can rise to 662 in heavy rain, then gets drawn back down. The Corps says a permanent fix could take most of a decade. On top of that, drought has kept the lake below even 656 this fall.
For paddlers: most Corps ramps work at 656, but the lake is below that now and 9 Corps ramps are closed (Nov 1, 2026). Designated swim beaches generally stop working below 657, and low water leaves stumps and shoals just under the surface. Full explainer and live gauge.
Hartwell has very few paddle rentals. One outfit delivers kayaks, canoes and boards anywhere around Hartwell, Georgia State Parks rents by the hour at Tugaloo, and Big Water Marina rents at the south end in South Carolina. Want a board instead? See paddleboard rentals on Lake Hartwell.
The only business on Hartwell that does nothing but paddle craft. Solo and tandem kayaks, canoes and paddleboards with vests and paddles, delivered to your cabin, campsite, rental house or a public park. Day-trip delivery is free within 5 miles of downtown Hartwell; multi-day packages (from $120 for an overnighter) include delivery. Renters must be 21 or older.
All kayak rentals Paddleboards Pontoons
The Corps charges $7 a vehicle at seven fee areas, card only. Georgia and South Carolina state parks charge their own entry fees, and the City of Clemson runs Twelve Mile. Every launch, by state and county · fees and passes.
New to the lake? Start with the Lake Hartwell size and depth facts.
Kids must wear a life jacket under 13 in Georgia and under 12 in South Carolina. Fishing licenses from either state work on the lake, but not up the creeks. Georgia vs. South Carolina rules side by side.