Savannah Lakes is a name closely associated with Savannah Lakes Village, a lakefront residential and recreational community in McCormick County, South Carolina. Located along the shores of Lake Thurmond, the community offers access to boating, fishing, kayaking, golf, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Although the name suggests several lakes, Savannah Lakes Village is primarily associated with one major body of water: Lake Thurmond, also known as Clarks Hill Lake in Georgia. This large reservoir stretches across the South Carolina–Georgia border along the Savannah River.
Whether you’re researching Savannah Lakes as a geographic destination, considering a lakeside vacation, or exploring the area’s recreational opportunities, understanding its location and connection to Lake Thurmond provides a useful starting point.
Where Are Savannah Lakes Located?
Savannah Lakes Village is located in McCormick County in western South Carolina, near the Georgia border. The community sits along Lake Thurmond, approximately 22 miles north of Augusta, Georgia.
Its location makes it convenient for people traveling from several southeastern cities, including:
- Augusta, Georgia
- Greenwood, South Carolina
- Abbeville, South Carolina
- Lincolnton, Georgia
- McCormick, South Carolina
The surrounding landscape features wooded hills, quiet coves, natural shoreline, and extensive outdoor recreation areas.
Understanding the Connection to Lake Thurmond
Lake Thurmond is the main lake associated with Savannah Lakes Village. It is a large reservoir created by the J. Strom Thurmond Dam on the Savannah River.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources reports the following measurements:
| Lake Thurmond feature | Reported information |
| Surface area | 71,100 acres |
| Shoreline | Approximately 1,200 miles |
| Average depth | 37 feet |
| Maximum depth | Approximately 139.4 feet |
| Location | South Carolina and Georgia |
| Waterway | Savannah River |
| Type | Man-made reservoir |
These figures describe Lake Thurmond as a whole, not just the section beside Savannah Lakes Village. The lake supports recreation, water management, and other important purposes.
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Is Lake Thurmond Also Called Clarks Hill Lake?
Yes. Lake Thurmond and Clarks Hill Lake are two names for the same reservoir.
The name Clarks Hill Lake remains widely used in Georgia, while J. Strom Thurmond Lake is its official federal name. The reservoir crosses the South Carolina–Georgia border, so visitors may encounter both names when researching the area.
This distinction is useful when planning a trip because maps, fishing information, and local tourism resources may use different names for the same waterway.
Best Things to Do at Savannah Lakes
Savannah Lakes Village combines lakeside recreation with golf, fitness, and outdoor activities. Lake Thurmond provides the main setting for water-based experiences, while the surrounding community offers additional ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Here are some of the most popular activities associated with the area.
Boating on Lake Thurmond
Boating is one of the main recreational attractions around Savannah Lakes.
Lake Thurmond has extensive open water, wooded coves, and a long shoreline that make it suitable for several types of boating.
Depending on access, available facilities, and local rules, visitors can enjoy:
- Pontoon boating
- Recreational motorboating
- Sailing
- Water skiing
- Personal watercraft activities
- Scenic cruises
Savannah Lakes Marina is associated with the community’s boating facilities. Its listed services include pontoon rentals, boat slips, and a waterfront store.
Before heading out, check boat rental availability, operating arrangements, and current lake conditions. You should also follow boating regulations and wear appropriate personal flotation devices.
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Fishing in Lake Thurmond
Fishing is another major reason people visit the area.
Lake Thurmond supports a variety of freshwater fish and attracts anglers throughout the year. Popular fishing opportunities include targeting:
- Largemouth bass
- Striped bass
- Crappie
- Catfish
- Bream
Fishing conditions vary with water temperature, season, weather, and fish movement. Different parts of the lake may also offer different fishing opportunities.
If you’re planning a fishing trip, check the applicable Georgia or South Carolina fishing regulations, depending on where you intend to fish. Review licensing requirements, size limits, creel limits, and seasonal restrictions before casting a line.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Kayaking and paddleboarding provide quieter ways to explore Lake Thurmond.
Unlike motorboats, these activities allow you to move through smaller coves and enjoy the surrounding scenery at a slower pace. Calm water can make paddling especially enjoyable, although wind and changing weather can affect conditions.
Some activities to consider include:
- Exploring sheltered coves
- Paddling along wooded shorelines
- Enjoying early-morning outings
- Taking short recreational trips
- Watching local wildlife from the water
Beginners should choose suitable conditions and wear a properly fitted life jacket. Check local access arrangements before launching.
Golf at Savannah Lakes Village
Golf is an important part of the Savannah Lakes Village lifestyle.
The community features two established 18-hole courses:
Monticello Golf Club: This course offers scenic surroundings and several holes with views of Lake Thurmond. Its landscape includes wooded areas, rock formations, and rolling fairways.
Tara Golf Club: Tara provides another championship-style golfing experience within the community. Its course offers a different setting for players who want to enjoy a round away from the waterfront.
Together, the courses provide 36 holes of golf. Playing arrangements, guest access, and tee-time availability should be confirmed before visiting.
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Hiking and Biking
The natural surroundings around Savannah Lakes Village offer opportunities for walking, hiking, and cycling.
Visitors can explore community paths and nearby outdoor recreation areas. The wider region also provides access to trails around state parks and forested public lands.
Popular outdoor options include:
- Walking through wooded surroundings
- Exploring nearby nature trails
- Road cycling
- Mountain biking on suitable trails
- Enjoying scenic lake views
The Savannah Valley Railroad Trail and nearby state-park and national-forest trails provide additional options for outdoor enthusiasts. Check the managing agency’s information for trail access and current conditions.
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Swimming and Pool Recreation
Swimming opportunities around Savannah Lakes include community pool facilities and lake-based recreation where permitted.
The community’s established recreation center features indoor and outdoor swimming pools. These facilities offer an alternative to swimming directly in Lake Thurmond.
Lake swimming requires more planning. Not every shoreline location is an approved swimming area, and water conditions can change. Always use designated swimming areas where available and follow posted safety instructions.
The community also lists fitness facilities, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and other recreational amenities. Access to association facilities may depend on membership, guest arrangements, or applicable community policies.
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Savannah Lakes Village Amenities
Savannah Lakes Village is more than a lakefront neighborhood. It is an established residential community with recreational and social facilities.
The community’s property owners’ association operates several amenities for residents and eligible users.
| Amenity | Description |
| Golf courses | Monticello and Tara |
| Recreation center | Approximately 23,000 square feet |
| Swimming pools | Indoor and outdoor |
| Tennis and pickleball | Multiple courts |
| Dining | Restaurants and cafés |
| Clubs | More than 60 interest groups |
| Lake recreation | Boating, paddling, and fishing |
| Outdoor activities | Hiking and biking |
These amenities help make the community appealing to people who enjoy an active lifestyle. However, residential amenities should not automatically be considered free public facilities. Visitors should confirm guest policies and access requirements before using them.
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Restaurants and Dining
Dining is another part of the Savannah Lakes Village experience.
The community’s established dining options include:
- River Grille
- Monti’s Bistro and Bar
- The Pub at Tara
- Village Café
These restaurants and cafés provide places for residents and eligible guests to gather after golfing, exercising, or spending time outdoors.
Dining arrangements and availability can change, so checking current operating information before visiting is sensible.
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Other Lakes in the Savannah River Basin
Although Savannah Lakes Village is centered on Lake Thurmond, the broader Savannah River Basin contains two other major reservoirs: Lake Hartwell and Richard B. Russell Lake.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages these three interconnected lake projects as part of a larger water-resource system.
Lake Hartwell
Lake Hartwell
Lake Hartwell lies farther upstream on the Savannah, Tugaloo, and Seneca river system. It is a popular destination for boating, fishing, camping, and other outdoor recreation.
The reservoir covers approximately 56,000 acres at its normal operating level and has an extensive shoreline.
It attracts visitors from Georgia and South Carolina, particularly those interested in boating and waterfront recreation.
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Richard B. Russell Lake
Richard B. Russell Lake
Richard B. Russell Lake sits between Lake Hartwell and Lake Thurmond. It offers a quieter recreational environment with less shoreline development than some neighboring reservoirs.
Its natural surroundings make it attractive to people interested in fishing, boating, wildlife, and peaceful outdoor experiences.
The reservoir was completed in 1985 and forms part of the interconnected Savannah River lake system.
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How the Three Savannah River Lakes Compare
| Feature | Lake Hartwell | Richard B. Russell | Lake Thurmond |
| Position | Upstream | Middle | Downstream |
| Type | Reservoir | Reservoir | Reservoir |
| States | Georgia and South Carolina | Georgia and South Carolina | Georgia and South Carolina |
| Main appeal | Recreation and boating | Quieter outdoor recreation | Boating, fishing, and extensive recreation |
| Connection to Savannah Lakes Village | Regional lake system | Regional lake system | Directly associated |
The three reservoirs form a chain approximately 120 miles long. However, Savannah Lakes Village is specifically located on Lake Thurmond, not on all three lakes.
Nearby Outdoor Destinations Around Savannah Lakes
The area surrounding Savannah Lakes Village offers more than residential waterfront recreation. Several public outdoor destinations provide additional opportunities to explore western South Carolina and the Georgia border region.
Baker Creek State Park
Baker Creek State Park is an outdoor destination near the Savannah Lakes Village area.
Its location beside Lake Thurmond makes it relevant to visitors interested in enjoying the region’s waterfront scenery and outdoor environment.
The park is particularly worth considering when planning a lake-focused outing. Check current park information for available activities, access, and facilities before traveling.
Hickory Knob State Resort Park
Hickory Knob State Resort Park is another South Carolina destination associated with Lake Thurmond.
The park provides a setting for outdoor recreation and nature-focused visits. It is a useful option for people who want to explore beyond the residential community.
Visitors should verify current facilities, recreational opportunities, and any applicable fees before making plans.
Sumter National Forest
Sumter National Forest covers extensive areas of South Carolina and offers opportunities to experience the region’s natural landscapes.
Depending on the specific recreation area, visitors may find hiking, wildlife observation, and other outdoor activities.
The forest is not a single attraction with one entrance. Different recreation sites have their own access arrangements, rules, and facilities.
Best Time to Visit Savannah Lakes
Savannah Lakes and the surrounding Lake Thurmond area offer outdoor recreation throughout much of the year. However, the best time for your visit depends on the activities you want to enjoy.
Spring
Spring brings milder temperatures and greener surroundings.
It can be a pleasant season for hiking, cycling, fishing, and exploring nearby parks. Visitors who prefer outdoor activities without the strongest summer heat may appreciate this time of year.
Summer
Summer is a popular season for lake recreation.
Boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are among the activities visitors may consider. Warm weather also makes swimming and pool recreation appealing.
However, summer temperatures can become hot and humid. Plan outdoor activities carefully, drink enough water, and pay attention to weather conditions.
Fall
Fall offers another comfortable period for outdoor exploration.
Changing foliage adds seasonal interest to the wooded landscape. Golf, hiking, cycling, and fishing can all be attractive options, depending on weather and local conditions.
Winter
Winter generally brings cooler weather and a quieter atmosphere.
Although some water activities may become less appealing, golf, walking, and other land-based recreation can remain options when conditions permit.
Before traveling in any season, check lake levels, weather forecasts, park notices, and facility availability.
Is Savannah Lakes a Good Place for a Lake Vacation?
Savannah Lakes Village and the surrounding Lake Thurmond area can appeal to travelers who enjoy outdoor recreation and a relaxed lakeside setting.
The destination offers several experiences worth considering:
- For boating enthusiasts: Lake Thurmond provides extensive water for recreational boating.
- For anglers: The reservoir supports freshwater fishing opportunities.
- For golfers: Two established golf courses serve the Savannah Lakes Village community.
- For outdoor enthusiasts: Nearby trails, parks, and forested areas provide opportunities to explore.
- For families: Pools, outdoor recreation, and suitable nearby public facilities offer different ways to spend time together.
- For people considering relocation: The community combines residential neighborhoods with established recreational amenities.
One important distinction is that Savannah Lakes Village is primarily a residential community, not a conventional public beach resort. Some facilities are association-operated, while public lake recreation areas fall under different management arrangements.
If you’re planning a vacation, confirm accommodation options, guest access, boat rentals, and recreational facilities before making reservations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Savannah Lakes
Where are Savannah Lakes located?
Savannah Lakes Village is located in McCormick County, South Carolina, near the Georgia border. The community sits along Lake Thurmond on the Savannah River.
What lake is Savannah Lakes Village on?
Savannah Lakes Village is located along Lake Thurmond, also known as Clarks Hill Lake in Georgia. It is a large reservoir shared by South Carolina and Georgia.
Is Savannah Lakes a natural lake?
The main lake associated with Savannah Lakes Village is not a natural lake. Lake Thurmond is a alternative reservoir created by the J. Strom Thurmond Dam on the Savannah River.
How big is Lake Thurmond?
Lake Thurmond covers approximately 71,100 acres and has around 1,200 miles of shoreline, according to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Its average depth is approximately 37 feet.
Can you go boating at Savannah Lakes?
Yes. Lake Thurmond supports recreational boating, including pontoon boating, sailing, and other water activities. Visitors should check marina availability, boat rental arrangements, and applicable boating regulations.
Is fishing allowed in Lake Thurmond?
Yes. Lake Thurmond offers freshwater fishing opportunities for species such as bass, striped bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. Anglers must follow the fishing regulations applicable to the waters where they fish.
Are there three Savannah River lakes?
The upper Savannah River Basin has three major interconnected reservoirs: Lake Hartwell, Richard B. Russell Lake, and Lake Thurmond. Savannah Lakes Village is specifically associated with Lake Thurmond.
Is Savannah Lakes Village open to visitors?
Visitors can explore the surrounding area and access eligible public recreation facilities. However, some golf, fitness, dining, and residential amenities have separate guest or membership requirements. Check access arrangements before visiting.
Is Savannah Lakes Village an age-restricted community?
No. Savannah Lakes Village is not an age-restricted residential community. Its homes and homesites are available to buyers of different ages.
What activities can you enjoy at Savannah Lakes?
Popular activities include boating, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, golfing, hiking, cycling, swimming at appropriate facilities, and enjoying nearby parks.
Conclusion
Savannah Lakes offers an appealing combination of waterfront scenery, outdoor recreation, and established residential amenities in western South Carolina. Its connection to Lake Thurmond makes it particularly interesting for boating, fishing, kayaking, and other lake activities.
Although the wider Savannah River Basin includes three major reservoirs, Lake Thurmond is the central attraction for Savannah Lakes Village. Whether you’re exploring the area for recreation, considering a visit, or researching its geography, this distinction helps you understand what makes the destination unique.
Hello, I’m Oliver Whitmore, and I’ve spent years exploring Britain’s beautiful lakes as well as freshwater landscapes across Europe and beyond. I enjoy researching the history, geography, wildlife, and cultural significance of lakes, then turning that knowledge into practical, easy-to-understand articles.
I believe every lake tells a story, whether it’s shaped by ancient glaciers, surrounded by legends, or home to remarkable wildlife. Through my writing, I hope to help readers discover the beauty and importance of these natural wonders.
Books I’ve Written:
- Britain’s Hidden Lakes
- The Freshwater Explorer’s Handbook
Henry Ashford