This Tiny South Carolina Lake Town Is Big On Charm With Festivals, Fishing, And Feel-Good Food

Planning a trip to South Carolina? Sure, you can visit Greenville — a flower-filled park with river, falls, and trails – or head to Charleston — one of the five U.S cities to offer the best barbecue. If you want to soak in the state's quintessential small town charm, however, make your way to the Olde English District. Yet if you're looking for a different tiny town that's big on charm, Chapin, South Carolina, is the place to be. It welcomes you with vibrant festivals, laid-back ambiance, feel-good food, and memorable fishing opportunities. Located 28 miles northwest of Columbia and in the midlands of South Carolina, Chapin is also only a two-hour drive from Charleston.

Downtown Chapin is a convenient choice for your stay, with grocery stores, restaurants, and shops all in close proximity. To savor the town's relaxed, homey vibe, you can explore holiday homes and vacation rentals tailored to every budget. Big-name hotels — including the Hyatt, Holiday Inn, and Hilton — are also options in nearby Columbia to consider.

Known as the "Capital of Lake Murray," Chapin sits along the scenic Lake Murray in northern Lexington County. One of the most popular activities on Lake Murray is fishing, thanks to its expansive 140,000 acres of fresh water. The many scenic fishing piers and well-maintained marinas add to the charm. Anglers should keep an eye out for catfish, sunfish, crappie, redear, striped bass, largemouth bass, and bluegill. For a more immersive experience, you can book a fishing guide to pick up expert tips and techniques and learn about local marine life.

If you want to mix things up, enjoy kayaking, water skiing, swimming, or simply take in the surrounding natural beauty. Widely regarded as one of the best bass lakes in the country, it also hosts fishing tournaments all year, including Bassmasters, Big Bass Tour, Youth Bass Tournament, and Oakley Bass Tournament. You can also check out other tournaments at Dreher Island State Park, which is a 20-minute drive from Chapin.

While — much like the rest of Lake Murray — Chapin is an all-season getaway, the best time to visit is over Labor Day weekend. That's when the whole town comes together to celebrate the Chapin Labor Day Festival and Parade — a beloved local tradition. You'll find locals and tourists alike participating in friendly competitions, enjoying delicious food stalls, and basking in the vibrant energy around. The festival also features live country music, carnival, car shows, and the iconic parade that passes through downtown Chapin with flags, colorful themed floats, and plenty of festive cheer.

While you're downtown, be sure to also stop by family-owned eateries that define Chapin's regional flavor. Located on 1925 Johnson Marina Road, Rusty Anchor is known for classic Southern feel-good food and live entertainment that add to its laid-back vibe. On the menu are chicken tenders, fried mozzarella, corn dogs for kids, and more. Run next door by the same team, Catfish Johnny's serves frozen cocktails, chicken wings, and fried catfish — perfect for a casual bite. With so much to do, you can have a wonderful trip while visiting Chaplin.