Aiken County, September 8, 2025
News Summary
Misty Lake, a 190-acre property in Aiken County, is set to be developed into a state park by 2027. Following its transfer to the SCPRT, the site will feature amenities such as hiking trails, water sports rentals, and event spaces. The transition from a corporate retreat to a state park is part of a legal settlement related to back taxes. Construction of essential facilities will commence soon, promoting recreational opportunities in the North Augusta region.
Aiken County’s Misty Lake Set to Become State Park by 2027
Misty Lake, a substantial 190-acre property located off Ascauga Lake Road in Aiken County, is poised to transform into the county’s next state park. Following its formal deed to the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism (SCPRT) in December 2022, the property is currently undergoing development with anticipated opening plans stretching to 2027.
Previously a corporate retreat for Dominion Energy, Misty Lake’s transition to a state park follows its inclusion in a legal settlement concerning back taxes related to the V.C. Summer nuclear plant expansion. While the area boasts existing facilities like a clubhouse, picnic shelters, and essential utilities, it currently lacks established trails or hiking paths, alongside the critical need for a ranger’s residence necessary for overnight camping.
Current Development Status
As work continues at Misty Lake, SCPRT Director Joy Raintree has indicated that construction for a ranger’s residence, park office, and park shop is aimed for completion by spring or summer of 2027. These facilities are crucial for managing the state park once operational.
Proposed Features and Amenities
The development plans for Misty Lake are ambitious, with proposed features including new hiking trails, water sports rentals for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, designated fishing areas, and spaces available for event rentals. All these components are designed to enhance recreational opportunities in the North Augusta region.
Other properties acquired through the Dominion settlement, namely Ramsey Grove Plantation and Pine Island, are also slated for development, marking a significant expansion of South Carolina’s state park system for the first time in two decades.
Background Context
The land at Misty Lake has been kept in good condition by Dominion Energy, thus requiring only minor repairs and upgrades before the park’s eventual opening. The SCPRT will benefit from approximately 3,000 acres of new parkland across multiple sites as a result of this legal settlement, further contributing to the state’s recreational landscape.
Conclusion
Misty Lake is set to become an important addition to Aiken County’s recreational offerings, with its anticipated features aiming to improve the quality of life and enhance outdoor activities for residents and visitors alike. The project, with hopes for completion by 2027, promises to expand the state park system and provide a variety of activities for nature enthusiasts.
FAQ Section
When is Misty Lake expected to open as a state park?
Misty Lake is expected to open in 2027, with major constructions aimed for completion by spring or summer of that year.
What facilities will be available at Misty Lake?
Misty Lake will feature hiking trails, water sports rentals, fishing areas, picnic shelters, and facilities for overnight camping.
What is the history behind the acquisition of Misty Lake?
Misty Lake was a corporate retreat for Dominion Energy and was acquired as part of a legal settlement concerning back taxes related to the V.C. Summer nuclear plant expansion.
Are there other parks being developed in Aiken County?
Yes, other properties such as Ramsey Grove Plantation and Pine Island are also being developed as part of the same settlement, expanding the state park system in South Carolina.
Key Features of Misty Lake Development
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Property Size | 190 acres |
| Anticipated Opening | 2027 |
| Current Facilities | Clubhouse, picnic shelters, utilities |
| Upcoming Features | Hiking trails, water sports rentals, fishing areas, event spaces |
| Additional Parkland Acquired | Approximately 3,000 acres across multiple sites |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Aiken County’s Next State Park
- WLTX: Pine Island to Become Latest Jewel
- SC Daily Gazette: SC Parks Department Seeks $18M
- Aiken Standard: Once Private Retreat Now State Park
- WRDW: Aiken County Gaining State Park Wildlife Tracking Tower
- Wikipedia: South Carolina State Parks
- Google Search: Aiken County Misty Lake State Park
- Encyclopedia Britannica: State Park
- Google Scholar: Misty Lake State Park
- Google News: 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.
