Pros & cons
PROS
- Direct launch and takeout for the Congaree–Wateree–Santee rivers
- Usually quiet with plenty of room to park and turn around
CONS
- Reports of litter and occasional sketchy activity
- Not ideal for leaving vehicles overnight due to theft reports
Overview
Bates Bridge Landing is a developed boat launch on the Congaree River beneath the U.S. Highway 601 bridge, at the eastern end of the Congaree River Blue Trail. It is a useful takeout for paddlers traveling downstream from Cedar Creek. The saved location marks this landing, rather than a separate launch on the Wateree River.
Access
The approach leaves Highway 601 just north of the bridge on its west side. The landing has a concrete boat ramp and parking. It is outside the main visitor-center trail area; plan transport and any shuttle before starting a river trip.
Paddling
Cedar Creek joins the Congaree upstream of the landing. River levels, currents and obstructions vary, so check current conditions and launch access before setting out. Bring a personal flotation device, water, navigation tools and a float plan. Do not assume that a downstream takeout will be nearby.
Where it is
33.7534, -80.6452Tips for Bates Bridge Landing
- 01Avoid leaving vehicles overnight; coordinate a shuttle for longer trips.
- 02Check river levels and weather; currents and debris change quickly after rain.
- 03Bring a headlamp—there’s no lighting and it’s very dark before sunrise.
- 04Pack out all trash; litter can be present even with a dumpster onsite.
- 05Dock conditions change; recent reports noted damage—be prepared to launch without it.
Amenities
Near Bates Bridge Landing
All places →All trails →
0.9 mi awayFork Swamp TrailShort loop along Bates Old River with big birding potentialEasy · 0.6 mi · 20 min
2.1 mi awayBates Ferry TrailShort, flat causeway to the Congaree River with history baked in.Easy · 2.2 mi · 1 hr
9.4 mi awayKingsnake TrailQuiet, flat floodplain ramble to giant trees and blackwater sloughs.Moderate · 7.5 mi · 6 hr
9.4 mi awayCedar Creek Canoe LaunchPrimary put-in for the maze-like Cedar Creek canoe trailPullout · Restroom
11 mi awayWeston Lake OverlookElevated boardwalk view over a rare open-water oxbow with wildlifeScenic Viewpoint
11 mi awayWeston LakeOpen-water wildlife lookout on the Boardwalk LoopScenic Viewpoint
11.2 mi awayBluff CampgroundSecluded hike-in tent sites with direct access to park trailsCampground · Trailhead
11.5 mi awayBoardwalk LoopFlat boardwalk through ancient floodplain forest and giant treesEasy · 2.6 mi · 1.5 hr
