Columbia County - 6 Attractions You Must Visit

The Augusta Canal is an engineering masterpiece that has been delighting locals and visitors alike for over 150 years. Built in 1847 by slaves, the three-mile long waterway was originally used to power factories and mills. Today, the canal offers a variety of recreational activities including kayaking, boating and bird watching. Visitors can also explore historic sites still located along the canal's banks such as the Confederate Powder Works Ruins.

The Columbia County Courthouse is an impressive and grandiose building, with a rich history. Built in 1897, this iconic courthouse sits on the edge of Newtown Park in Evans. It has been used as the home of justice for over a century, serving generations of residents who required legal services and representation. Its magnificent Neocoical Revival architecture stands proudly against the backdrop of Beaver Lake and provides county charm that can only be found here.

The J. Strom Thurmond Dam is a hydroelectric dam, which was built to be the source of power for the area, providing power to nearly two million customers. The dam is also used to regulate water levels in the Savannah River, allowing year-round navigation regardless of weather or other conditions. Additionally, fishing and hunting are allowed at specific areas near the lake created by the dam's construction, which provides a unique recreational environment for locals and visitors alike.

Lake Springs Recreation Area is a fantastic place for outdoor activities! Located on 76 acres of land, the area has something to offer everyone. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, fishing, camping, and picnicking. It also features a one-mile trail with several scenic lookout points and two playgrounds - perfect for families. Additionally, Lake Springs contributes to the preservation of historical buildings - it has two restored log cabins dating back to the late 1800s.

Mistletoe State Park is an outdoor paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. Located on Clark Hill Lake, the park is home to miles of hiking trails, perfect for exploring the great outdoors. The lake provides excellent fishing opportunities, allowing anglers to cast their lines out in search of bass, catfish, and more. There are also multiple scenic spots throughout the park that make wonderful places to picnic or just relax and take it all in.

Wildwood Park, is a wonderful recreational area offering outdoor activities of all kinds. This park has 230 acres of natural splendor perfect for camping, fishing, and hunting. Visitors can take part in a variety of other activities as well such as kayaking and hiking through miles of trails that wind through majestic forests. With five lakes and two streams, there's plenty to explore! Bring along your binoculars to observe the abundant wildlife.