Greenville & Spartanburg’s Favorite Swim Spots (Waterparks, Lakes & More!)
If you’re sweating through your clothes by 10 a.m., welcome to summer in Greenville and Spartanburg! The good news? There are tons of awesome spots around here to jump in, cool off, and have a blast, whether you’re into splash pads, lakes, or waterparks with slides.
We’re Team Matsuda Realtors, mother-daughter locals of Upstate, SC who know where to find the fun. Whether you live in downtown Greenville, Duncan, or somewhere in between, here’s your go-to guide for the best places to swim, splash, and float in the Upstate.
Top Waterparks and Swimming in Greenville, SC
Discovery Island Waterpark in Simpsonville, SC
Located in Southside Park, Discovery Island offers water slides, a lazy river, and a splash pad, making it perfect for families.
📍 417 Baldwin Rd, Simpsonville, SC 29680
📞 (864) 963-4345
Otter Creek Waterpark in Greenville, SC
Situated in Northside Park, Otter Creek features four slides, a 7,000 sq. ft. leisure pool with beach entry, and a 2,400 sq. ft. splash n’ spray pad.
📍 101 W. Darby Rd, Greenville, SC 29609
📞 (864) 834-4108
7th Inning Splash Waterpark in Piedmont, SC
This baseball-themed waterpark offers 2 water slides, giant funnel slide, a leisure pool, and a baseball diamond shaped splash pad, providing fun for all ages.
📍 1500 Piedmont Hwy, Piedmont, SC 29673
📞 (864) 299-1842
Saluda River Tubing in Greenville, SC
Enjoy a relaxing float down the Saluda River with rentals available from Saluda Outdoor River Company.
📍1001 Old Easley Hwy, Greenville SC 29611
📞 (864) 777-3053
Westside Aquatic Complex in Greenville, SC
This facility offers indoor pools, lap lanes, fitness center, concessions and swim classes, making it great for all ages.
📍 2700 W Blue Ridge Dr, Greenville, SC 29611
📞 (864) 679-7946
Paris Mountain State Park in Greenville, SC
Paris Mountain State Park offers a designated swimming area in Lake Placid, open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., with swimming allowed only in the roped-off section. The park also provides canoe, kayak, and pedal boat rentals on weekends, depending on weather conditions .
📍 2401 State Park Rd, Greenville, SC 29609
📞 (864) 244-5565
Lake Jocassee – Upstate Day Trip
Known for its crystal-clear waters and hidden waterfalls, Lake Jocassee is a must-visit spot for swimming and kayaking.
📍161 Holcombe Cir, Salem, SC 29676
📞 (864) 944-2639
Best Splash Pads in Greenville, SC
This one’s right on Main Street and open late, which we love. It’s simple, shaded, and super easy to pop into if you’re local or just passing through.
📍 104 N Main Street, Fountain Inn, SC 29644
🕘 Open Daily, 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Unity Park Splash Pad in Greenville, SC
The newest (and biggest) splash pad in town. Right next to an awesome playground and tons of green space.
📍 320 S Hudson Street, Greenville, SC 29601
🕘 Opens May 1, 2025: Monday 1 p.m.–sunset, Tues–Sun 9 a.m.–sunset
Children’s Fountain at RiverPlace in Greenville, SC
Free, train-themed, and right by the Reedy River.
📍 Falls Park near RiverPlace, Greenville, SC 29601
Top Waterparks and Swimming in Spartanburg, SC
Shipwreck Cove Water Park in Duncan, SC
This pirate-themed waterpark features two large slides, a lazy river, a kiddie area, and a central pool.
📍 119 S. Spencer Street, Duncan, SC 29334
📞 (864) 949-0290
A popular spot for boating and fishing, Lake Bowen also offers a waterfront playground for the kids.
📍 8515 Highway 9
Inman, SC 29349
Lake Blalock Park in Chesnee, SC
This peaceful lake is great for fishing, kayaking, or spending a low-key day out on a pontoon boat. Locals love the quieter vibe compared to some of the bigger lakes.
📍 1925 Sandy Ford Road
Chesnee, SC 29323
📞 864-578-5442
Best Splash Pads in Spartanburg, SC
Barnet Park Splash Pad in Downtown Spartanburg
At the entrance of Barnet Park just across from the Chapman Cultural Center sits a splash pad that’s totally free! The pad is open from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Sunday.
📍 248 E Saint John Street
Spartanburg, SC 29306
We love this one for all-day hangs. There’s a splash pad, walking trail, basketball courts, and picnic space. Great for group playdates.
📍 453 Beacon Street, Spartanburg, SC 29303
Tyger River Park Splash Pad in Duncan, SC
This splash pad is located within one of Spartanburg’s nicest parks, featuring walking trails and a playground.
📍 179 Dillard Rd, Duncan, SC 29334
📞 (864) 804-5814
McKinney Park in Woodruff
A quiet favorite with locals. The splash pad is cute, the playground’s new, and there’s plenty of room to spread out.
📍 E Pine St, Woodruff, SC 29388
Airplane theme = automatic kid favorite. Splash pad, trails, and a fun playground all in one.
📍 500 Ammons Road, Spartanburg, SC 29306
Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park in Boiling Springs
Recently upgraded and it shows. Big, colorful playground and a brand new splash pad make this one worth the drive.
📍 591 McMillin Blvd, Boiling Springs, SC 29316
Tips for Water Parks, Splash Pads & Swim Spots in Greenville & Spartanburg
Want a stress-free summer day? Here are some smart tips from local families who’ve been to just about every splash pad and lake in the Upstate:
Wear water shoes – Splash pads and riverbanks can get slippery or rough, especially around Greenville’s Saluda River.
Go early or late – Summer heat in Spartanburg and Greenville is real. Avoid the hottest part of the day by visiting in the morning or evening.
Pack towels, snacks, and sunscreen – A lot of waterparks and lake spots don’t have food nearby, and shaded areas fill up fast.
Check hours before you head out – Places like RiverPlace and Unity Park sometimes close for maintenance or weather. Quick check = no surprises.
Bring a change of clothes for kids – Many parks combine playgrounds and splash pads (like Stewart Park or Tyger River), so dry clothes are a game changer.
Protect your phone – A waterproof pouch is super handy whether you’re tubing, chasing little ones, or just want to take pics without the panic.
Follow local swim rules – Places like Paris Mountain State Park and Lake Blalock have specific swim zones and safety guidelines, always good to know ahead of time.
Love the Water? Let’s Find You a Home Near It.
Living in the Upstate means having easy access to water, whether it’s a lake day, a tubing float, or a community pool just around the corner. We love that about Greenville and Spartanburg. It’s why so many folks are moving here (and why we love helping them find their dream home).
If you’re dreaming of living near water, or just want a home with space for a backyard pool we’re here to help. Contact us today!
About Team Matsuda Realtors
We’re more than just realtors in Greenville and Spartanburg, we’re your neighbors, and we’re here to help make homeownership as easy and enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just looking to get the most out of your home, we’re here to help! Follow us on Instagram for more local tips, real estate advice, and everything you need to make the most of life in the Upstate!
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