Lake life will be more accessible for Columbia residents next summer with the addition of a new state park at Pine Island on Lake Murray.

For approx. 60 years, Pine Island operated as an exclusive club for SCANA employees and guests. When the power company was acquired by Dominion Energy in 2019, the fate of the club came into question.

The property — valued at $9.5 million — will become a state park as part of a settlement agreement between Dominion Energy and the SC Department of Revenue.

Flyover view of Pine Island | Giphy by Google Earth

The new state park could be ready by mid-2022.

🎣 The Amenities

9,000-sqft conference center
Swimming pool
Boat slips
Beach swimming area
Playground
Basketball court
Tennis and volleyball courts
Outdoor shelter with grill

🏕️ What’s to come

South Carolina State Park’s agency plans to build campgrounds on the 27-acre island.
In addition to Pine Island, the state also acquired the 94-acre Bundrick Island on Lake Murray. This island has a sandy beach, but no buildings or other structures. No future plans for this area are currently set.

🦆 The Bonus

In addition to Pine Island, the state also acquired Misty Lake, a 190-acre property in North Augusta and the historic 2,600-acre Ramsey Grove Plantation — valued at $28 million — on the Black River in Georgetown County.

This will give SC 50 state parks in total, with the newest locations offering South Carolinians access to scenic properties in the Midlands, Lowcountry, and Central Savannah River Area.