# 2 Sandy Beach: N. Lake Moultrie Trail — Rated: Moderate, 5.2 Miles

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Summary: The 600-acre Sandy Beach Waterfowl Refuge includes part of North Lake Moultrie. It is a protected waterfowl management area with a nice beach for primitive camping. This entire area is beautiful with tupelos, flowing aquatic plants and you’re almost guaranteed to see a few large birds of prey. There are hiking trails open from March 1 until November 1.

Difficulty: Moderate, due to crossing open water

Distance: 5.2 miles, round-trip

Time: 2 – 3 hours; although, we recommend spending the night/camping on this little gem of a beach!

Crowds: Light to Moderate. You’re almost guaranteed to see boaters/anglers, and you might see other paddlers on the weekends.

Boat Type: Kayaks or canoes 12 feet or longer. Paddle boards are not recommended.

Put In / Take Out: Angel’s Landing Marina,1556 Viper Road, Pineville, SC 29468, 800-315-3087. GPS: 33.381196, -80.091654 or 33°22’52.3”N, 80°05’30.0”W

Fees/Permits: $5.00 parking fee (as of late 2018)

Current: Negligible, generally south direction

Tidal Influence: None

Precautions: Winds above 10 MPH can be tough for a paddler on Lake Moultrie. There is a lot of open water for wind to intensify and cause waves/whitecaps. There are hundreds of tree stumps just inches below the water’s surface. These can flip a paddler if a boat gets wedged on top. Tip: these stumps can usually be seen with polarized sunglasses. It’s advisable to wear bright orange during hunting season.