Camp at Dreher Island

Camping at Lake Dreher is lovely year round! If you want to swim then I suggest April-September. The summer is hot! I suggest camping in a hammock if you go in the heat. The island is easy to get to and about 45 min from downtown Columbia. Make reservations early for campsites as they go months in advance! There are two islands, so pay attention to the map when booking if you want to be on the furthest island out. The lake is calm around Dreher Island, so we were able to stand up paddle board right from our spot on the lake! Also easy for kayaking or swimming. Some spots can accommodate boat access if you have one to use. Lake Murray is large, so you can use the day to explore by water or play cards by the campfire.