*Family-Friendly Fishing, Boating Info, and Peaceful Adventures Close to Home*

Part of enjoying taking your kids fishing, or taking yourself fishing, is the need for healthy fishing locations. As someone who doesn’t have the luxury of a fancy bass boat and the ability to fish big lakes, I am always on the search for publicly accessible ponds or lakes where I have a chance for success.
I live in the Upstate of South Carolina, and though there are a few big bodies of water within an hour or so, I prefer some of the smaller lakes nearby. Lake Cunningham and Lake Robinson are two of these, and they are located in Greer, SC.

Both of these lakes provide exactly what I need in a fishery—a place to be outside enjoying God’s creation, while also getting to fish. They have been a huge part of my family’s outdoor adventures, and the main places my kids learned to fish.  We have fished from the banks and the piers, and we have also put a lot of time on the water in our kayaks and jon boat.  There is great scenery, various wildlife (especially different birds flying and swimming around), and a fairly quiet setting. Lake Robinson even has a coveted mountain ridge view, as you can see ridgelines from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The sunrises and sunsets at Lake Robinson are hard to beat!

If you live in the Upstate of South Carolina, and you are looking for a place to fish, I encourage you to go check out Lake Cunningham and Lake Robinson. Below, you’ll find some of the information on these two lakes.

Quick Look at the Lakes

Lake Cunningham

– Size: 200 acres
– Vibe: Relaxed, smaller crowds, great for beginners or families
– Features: Fishing pier, playground, picnic shelter, and a boat ramp

Lake Robinson

– Size: 800 acres
– Vibe: Larger, scenic, and a great spot for anglers or paddlers
– Features: Three fishing piers, two picnic shelters, restrooms, boat ramp, and an event boathouse

Boating & Fishing Regulations

Permits

– Fishing:
  – $5 per year for SC residents
  – $15 for out-of-state visitors
  – Kids under 16 and active military can fish for free

– Boating:
  – Daily permit: $5
  – Annual permits:
– Non-motorized: $30
– Motorized (10 HP or less): $55
Tip: Permits can be purchased at the Lake Warden’s Office (2544 Mays Bridge Rd, Greer, SC).

Boating Limits

– Only electric motors or gas motors 10 horsepower or less allowed
– No jet skis or high-speed boating—perfect for peaceful paddling or slow cruising

General Rules

– Swimming is not allowed
– No wading, camping, or fires
– Firearms, fireworks, and alcohol are prohibited 
– Fishing is not allowed from the dams or spillways
– All South Carolina SCDNR fishing laws apply

Best Family-Friendly Fishing Spots

Lake Cunningham

– Dedicated fishing pier with updated decking—great for kids or new anglers
– Likely catches: bluegill, black crappie, warmouth, and largemouth bass
– Playground and picnic shelter nearby—perfect for families

Lake Robinson

– Multiple fishing piers and shaded shoreline access
– Common catches: largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, catfish, and pickerel
– Picnic areas, clean restrooms, and quiet coves ideal for families
* Cole’s Bait shop is across the road from Lake Robinson. You can get live bait (worms, minnows, etc) and fishing gear
from Cole’s. They also rent kayaks to be used at Lake Robinson (they deliver and pickup the kayaks from the boat
ramp).

Planning Your Trip

1. Get there early – Lakes open at sunrise, and early morning is prime time for fishing and paddling
2. Pack light but smart – Bring sunscreen, bug spray, a basic tackle box, and a couple rods. Snacks and juice boxes for the kids are always a win
3. Check the weather – Summer heat can sneak up on you
4. Bring cash or a card – If you need permits, the lake office accepts both
5. Print or screenshot lake rules – Phone service can be spotty in some areas

Final Thoughts from the Water

Lake Cunningham and Lake Robinson are hidden-in-plain-sight outdoor spots in the Upstate. Whether you’re teaching your kids how to fish, catching a sunrise paddle, or just looking to unplug, you’ll find peace and purpose in these quiet waters.

Let me know if you’ve fished either lake! What did you catch? Where’s your favorite spot? Leave a comment below or tag us on Instagram @bestilladventures.