Goodale State Park wilderness guide
State Park · SC

Goodale State Park

Goodale State Park in South Carolina offers a beautiful combination of outdoor recreation and natural scenery, centered around a large scenic lake with opportunities for boating and fishing.

State Park7631+ Trails
DesignationState Park
Total Wilderness Area763
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Goodale State Park

Goodale State Park in South Carolina offers a beautiful combination of outdoor recreation and natural scenery, centered around a large scenic lake with opportunities for boating and fishing.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Goodale State Park, located in Kershaw County, South Carolina, is an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil outdoor experience amid scenic surroundings. This 763-acre park is best known for Adam's Mill Pond, a historic 140-acre millpond perfect for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Rich in pine and hardwood forests, the park is an excellent spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Established in 1973, Goodale State Park also has historical significance, as the land was previously home to Adam's Grist Mill dating back to the 18th century. Visitors can explore the area's hiking trails, which meander through diverse ecosystems, offering a chance to spot various wildlife, including deer and a variety of bird species. The park provides a peaceful setting with its serene water views and the whisper of foliage, making it a cherished spot for both relaxation and recreation.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Goodale State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Adam's Mill Pond for fishing and boating✦ Rich pine and hardwood forests for birdwatching✦ Historical significance with remnants of Adam's Grist Mill✦ Serene picnic areas with water views
Wilderness Visuals & Gallery

Visual Guide to Goodale State Park

Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Goodale State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Goodale State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No admission fee required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Goodale State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Goodale Campground

Offers a few primitive camping sites near the pond for an immersive outdoor experience.

Reserve on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Goodale State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Camden, South Carolina
⌖ 4.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Camden, South Carolina

Camden, SC, offers outdoor enthusiasts calm lakes for kayaking, lush trails for hiking and cycling, and an equestrian heritage. It's a serene getaway with Southern hospitality and historic sites.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Rembert, South Carolina
⌖ 15.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rembert, South Carolina

Rembert is a small town in South Carolina’s Midlands that offers easy access to paddling, fishing, and quiet hiking. Surrounded by lakes and forests, it’s a great spot for outdoor lovers seeking peace and nature off the main tourist routes.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Kershaw, South Carolina
⌖ 16.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kershaw, South Carolina

Kershaw, SC is a charming destination for low-key outdoor enthusiasts. With numerous hiking trails, serene paddling routes, and historical attractions, it offers a blend of adventure and tranquility.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Bishopville, South Carolina
⌖ 20.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bishopville, South Carolina

Bishopville, South Carolina, offers a quiet outdoor escape with gentle hiking, paddling on Lake Marion, and excellent wildlife viewing. Ideal for travelers seeking nature and Southern Lowcountry charm off the main tourist routes.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Ridgeway, SC
⌖ 21.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ridgeway, SC

Ridgeway, SC is a charming town offering a delightful mix of outdoor fun and history. From kayaking on Lake Wateree to exploring nearby hiking trails, it's perfect for a serene adventure.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
McBee, South Carolina
⌖ 21.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

McBee, South Carolina

McBee offers a peaceful rural retreat in South Carolina with easy hiking, paddling, and wildlife watching. Nearby state parks provide great spots for camping and exploring gentle trails year-round.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Goodale State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Pontoon Rental • 90 Horsepower
ADVEXPEDITION
Camden, South Carolina
Boat TourADV Bookable

Pontoon Rental • 90 Horsepower

Take control of a powerful pontoon boat on South Carolina’s largest lake with Wateree Marina. Perfect for groups, these 90-hp vessels offer a full day of tailored water adventure just outside Camden.

Boat Tour8 Hours - 5 Days • Must Be 21+ to Rent • Up to 7 PeopleCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Sandy - 17' Stingray Center Console
ADVEXPEDITION
Hickory, North Carolina
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Sandy - 17' Stingray Center Console

Discover Lake Hickory’s waters with the 17' Stingray Center Console, a versatile boat ideal for fishing, lounging, and watersports. Experience safe and seamless adventures with included fuel and lifejackets from LakeSide Marina in Hickory, North Carolina.

Boat RentalCertified Outfitter
From$300
Book Trip
Bindi - 16' Qwest Pontoon
ADVEXPEDITION
Hickory, North Carolina
Boat TourADV Bookable

Bindi - 16' Qwest Pontoon

Discover Lake Hickory like never before aboard the Bindi 16' Qwest Pontoon. Whether for fishing, cruising, or exploring, this versatile pontoon boat offers an accessible and comfortable way to enjoy North Carolina’s scenic waters.

Boat TourFull & Half Day Rentals • Ages 26+ to Book • 7 Person Capacity • Starting at $225Certified Outfitter
From$225
Book Trip
Penny- 22' Dark Brown Crest
ADVEXPEDITION
Hickory, North Carolina
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Penny- 22' Dark Brown Crest

Discover Lake Hickory aboard the Penny 22' Dark Brown Crest pontoon boat. Perfect for groups up to 11, enjoy half or full-day rentals with options for tubing, waterskiing, and wakeboarding.

Boat RentalFull & Half Day Rentals • Ages 26+ to Book • 11 Person Capacity • Add-On Options!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Kangaroo Jack - 1550 Stabicraft
ADVEXPEDITION
Hickory, North Carolina
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Kangaroo Jack - 1550 Stabicraft

Rent the 15.5 ft Kangaroo Jack Stabicraft at Lakeside Marina for an unbeatable day on Lake Hickory. Perfect for family fun or fishing, this powerful boat makes lake adventures effortless and exciting.

Boat RentalFull & Half Day Rentals • Ages 26+ to Book • 5 Person Capacity • Starting at $230Certified Outfitter
From$345
Book Trip
Blackbeard- 14' Bentley Pontoon
ADVEXPEDITION
Hickory, North Carolina
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Blackbeard- 14' Bentley Pontoon

Discover Hickory, North Carolina’s scenic lakes with the Blackbeard 14' Bentley Pontoon. Perfect for small groups seeking a comfortable and exciting day on tranquil waters surrounded by nature.

Boat RentalFull & Half Day Rentals • Ages 26+ to Book • 5 Person Capacity • Starting at $180Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Sunburn - 20' Crest Pontoon
ADVEXPEDITION
Hickory, North Carolina
Boat TourADV Bookable

Sunburn - 20' Crest Pontoon

Enjoy a customizable half-day or full-day pontoon boat experience on Hickory’s scenic lakes. The Sunburn 20' Crest Pontoon offers space, comfort, and access to North Carolina’s tranquil waterways for fishing, cruising, and lakeside exploration.

Boat TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Luca - 20' Stabicraft Treker
ADVEXPEDITION
Hickory, North Carolina
Boat TourADV Bookable

Luca - 20' Stabicraft Treker

Set out on Hickory’s serene lake aboard the 20' Stabicraft Treker. This half- or full-day boat charter offers stability, freedom, and access to pristine waters just steps from town.

Boat TourFull & Half Day Rentals • Ages 26+ to Book • 8 Person Capacity • Starting at $385Certified Outfitter
From$495
Book Trip
Beach Toy Rentals
ADVEXPEDITION
South Lake Tahoe, California
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Beach Toy Rentals

Kayak, paddleboard, or pedal boat your way through calm waters at Camden Marina. Perfect for families and friends seeking an active outdoor day in South Carolina's scenic waterways.

Water ActivitiesCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Above the Blue: Parasailing Over South Lake Tahoe
ADVEXPEDITION
South Lake Tahoe, California
ParasailADV Bookable

Above the Blue: Parasailing Over South Lake Tahoe

Choose a 500', 800' or 1000' flight with Lakeside Marina and see Lake Tahoe’s water and mountains from a quiet, suspended vantage—this guide explains what to expect and how the outings run.

ParasailPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip