Parksville Recreation Area is a scenic rural park located in McCormick County, South Carolina, on the shores of J. Strom Thurmond Lake. It offers two beaches, a boat ramp, and picnic areas with grills, making it ideal for family outings. The park features 70,000 surface-acres of water and over 1,000 miles of shoreline, perfect for boating, water skiing, swimming, fishing, and hiking. The area is heavily wooded with a mix of pine and hardwood forests, providing shade and vibrant fall colors. Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings of southern bald eagles, osprey, and whitetail deer.
The park's facilities include two group picnic shelters, flush toilets, drinking water, a playground, and a grassy field. Shelter 1 has electrical hookups and can accommodate up to 90 people, while Shelter 2 can accommodate up to 36 people but lacks electrical hookups. The park is currently closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene, but it typically offers a serene and natural setting for outdoor activities.
Nearby attractions include other parks and recreation areas around Thurmond Lake, offering additional opportunities for boating, swimming, hunting, and hiking. Local cities feature museums, art galleries, zoos, restaurants, and shopping areas, providing a well-rounded experience for visitors.
