If you're drawn to the excitement of year-round sporting events played on the highest level of competition, Fairfield County is close to the action. If you’re drawn to the peace and quiet of the great outdoors and the recreation found in nature, Fairfield County is in the mix. In Fairfield County, you'll find your favorite leisure activity.
Collegiate Sports
Just a few minutes from some of the best college athletics in the country. The University of South Carolina competes on the national level in all major sports.
Lakes & Beaches
Two lakes in Fairfield County offer recreation to the residents of the county. Lake Monticello is a 7,000-acre lake that offers picnic shelters, fishing, a boat ramp and many other water recreational activities. The Fairfield Recreation Commission also operates a park at the lake.
There is also a smaller area, the Monticello Recreation Lake, which is located north of the large body of water and is about 300 acres in size. This park area offers fishing two days a week (Wednesdays and Saturdays), swimming (no lifeguard on duty) and picnic facilities. The park gates open from sunrise to sunset. Located in the park is the V.C. Summer Nuclear Station Nature Trail. Benches, wood duck boxes, blue bird boxes and plant identification markers dot this 1.5-mile long trail. The other and largest lake in Fairfield County is Lake Wateree, which is one of South Carolina’s premier fishing and boating destinations.
There is also a state recreation area at Lake Wateree. The Lake Wateree State Recreation Area provides ideal access to the 21-mile long, 13,700-acre reservoir. The 238-acre park’s offerings include a tackle shop/park store with refueling dock and public boat ramp. A large population of crappie, bream, largemouth bass, catfish and striped bass make this lake a popular fishing spot. The area also has a wooded, lakeside campground which includes 72 sites, many that can accommodate large RVs and all with water and electrical service. Day visitors and campers also can enjoy the numerous picnic tables, playground, and the mile-long nature trail through the woods.
Sumter National Forest
Located in the Northwestern corner of Fairfield County is 11,080 acres of The Sumter National Forest. This forest stretches over 253,381 acres of the state and connects with trails and forests in both Georgia and North Carolina. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, the Forest will be a highlight of your experience in Fairfield County.
