Aiken County, September 8, 2025

News Summary

Progress is underway to transform Misty Lake, a 190-acre property in Aiken County, into a state park. Deeded to the SCPRT in late 2022, upgrades include improvements to the clubhouse and picnic shelters, with additional facilities planned. While the park’s opening is estimated to be two years away, the initiative aims to enhance outdoor recreational opportunities in the area, creating a space for camping, hiking, and water activities.

Misty Lake Progress Continues Towards Becoming Aiken County’s Next State Park

Aiken, South Carolina – Progress is being made toward transforming Misty Lake, a 190-acre property located off Ascauga Lake Road in Aiken County, into a state park. The property was officially deeded to the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism (SCPRT) in December 2022 as part of a settlement concerning back taxes related to the V.C. Summer nuclear plant project in 2021. Previously, the site served as a private retreat for Dominion Energy employees.

The state park initiative includes a range of upgrades. The existing clubhouse will receive new electrical work, windows, and doors, while maintenance will be performed on the picnic shelters that are already present. However, the current lack of hiking trails and a designated ranger’s residence indicate that significant development is still required before the park can open to the public.

SCPRT Director Joy Raintree emphasizes that establishing a ranger’s residence is crucial for enabling overnight camping, a key goal for the park. Although initial plans included the possibility of Misty Lake welcoming visitors sooner, the projected opening has been pushed to at least two years away, with no specific timeline yet established.

Future Developments and Offerings

Anticipated developments at Misty Lake include the addition of new hiking trails, water recreation options such as kayak and canoe rentals, and designated fishing areas. The SCPRT is currently engaged in the administrative processes necessary to secure construction approvals for these enhancements. Once completed, the park aims to offer enriched recreational opportunities in Aiken County by providing easily accessible fishing spots and outdoor activities for local communities.

Comparative Context with Other Properties

Misty Lake will become Aiken County’s third state park, joining Aiken State Park and Redcliffe Plantation upon its future opening. It is important to note that other properties involved in the same tax settlement, such as Pine Island and Ramsey Grove Plantation, are expected to partially open soon, with Pine Island already scheduled for a soft opening starting this October.

The growing interest in Misty Lake reflects a broader commitment to enhancing public recreational options within Aiken County. By investing in such properties, local officials hope to foster community engagement with nature and outdoor leisure, thereby promoting healthy lifestyles and environmental appreciation among residents.

Conclusion

While it may take a substantial amount of time before Misty Lake officially opens its doors as a state park, the initial steps being taken provide hope for enhanced recreational opportunities in Aiken County. The SCPRT continues to work diligently to ensure that this transformation ultimately meets the needs and expectations of the local community.

FAQ Section

• What is Misty Lake?

  Misty Lake is a 190-acre property located off Ascauga Lake Road in Aiken County, South Carolina, designated to become a state park.

• When was Misty Lake deeded to the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism?

  Misty Lake was officially deeded to SCPRT in December 2022.

• What upgrades are planned for Misty Lake?

  Upgrades include electrical work, new windows and doors for the clubhouse, and maintenance on picnic shelters.

• When is Misty Lake expected to open?

  The opening has been estimated to be at least two years away, with no definitive timeline as of now.

Key Features of Misty Lake State Park

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Aiken County’s Misty Lake to Become State Park

Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: Aiken County’s Next State Park
• SC Daily Gazette: SC Parks Department Seeks $18M
• WRDW: Aiken County Gaining State Park
• Aiken Standard: Once Private Retreat Now State Park
• Wikipedia: South Carolina State Parks
• Google Search: Misty Lake State Park

Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN

The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.