Dominion Energy’s public parks
Dominion Energy’s Lake Murray page lists two public parks. The Irmo side is open year-round, 24 hours a day, with a boat launch, fishing docks, picnic facilities and restrooms. When we checked, the posted parking fees were $5 for single-day boat ramp access or $50 for season access.
Dominion says that as of April 1, 2026 the Irmo-side launch no longer accepts cash; visitors pay for parking online after they arrive. Between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. the park is for boaters only, alcohol is not allowed and pets must be leashed.
The Lexington side is a beach and recreation area, not a boat launch. Dominion lists it as open from April 9 through Labor Day, with a $5 vehicle day pass that must be reserved online in advance, up to three weeks ahead. No lifeguard is on duty, and pets and alcohol are not allowed.
Dreher Island State Park
South Carolina State Parks describes Dreher Island State Park as three islands and 348 acres with access to 12 miles of Lake Murray shoreline, about 30 miles from Columbia. The park lists three boat ramps, a marina and a tackle shop that doubles as its visitor center. Its address is 3677 State Park Road, Prosperity.
The park is open daily from dawn to dusk. When we checked, admission was $6 for adults, with lower rates for South Carolina seniors and children and free entry for children 5 and under. Swimming is not permitted in several areas, including the marina, the boat ramp areas and the courtesy docks.
Before you tow
Fees, seasons and payment methods change. Check the operator’s page on the day you go and confirm where your vehicle and trailer can park before you leave home.
A ramp location does not tell you today’s water depth, crowding or ramp condition. Launch only where it is permitted and follow posted rules. Dominion Energy publishes a Lake Murray public access areas map and current lake levels on its Lake Murray page.
Docks and shoreline work need a permit
Dominion Energy accepts online applications for residential shoreline projects on Lake Murray, including docks, boat ramps and retaining walls. It asks applicants to have the property’s tax map number and a scanned plat ready.
Commercial dock requests go to Dominion Energy Lake Management, which lists a Lake Management Office number of 803-217-9221 and a toll-free Lake Murray hotline of 800-830-5253.
Original sources
Checked 2026-11-12. Linked pages can change after review.