Lake Paul Wallace - Bennettsville, SC - Boating, Swimming, and Fishing

Lake Paul Wallace is a man-made lake with a regulated water level. A walking path separates the fishing side of the lake from the boating and swimming side. Fishing is offered on the west side of the lake. Boating and swimming are offered on the east side of the lake. Lake Paul Wallace is located in Marlboro County in Bennettsville, South Carolina.

Lake Paul Wallace can refer to both the actual lake and the Lake Wallace Wildlife Management Area. The area is maintained by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. The lake is roughly 600 acres, and the Lake Wallace Wildlife Management Area is consists of about 52 acres that are either on or around the lake. The wildlife area was purchased with federal funds from several different sources.

There is no admission charged for access to the lake, and the lake is open daily during daylight hours. The boating and swimming side of the lake features a skiing channel that is one mile long. In addition, there are sunning terraces on the grass and a sandy white beach area by the swimming area. During the summer months of swimming, lifeguards are on duty. The fishing portion of the lake is located across a diversion dike and is stocked with fish. Fishing on the lake does require a valid South Carolina fishing license. Bass are commonly caught on the lake.

The water reservoir for Bennettsville is the portion of the lake that lies just north of Beauty Spot Road. The reservoir area is also used as a refuge for waterfowl. Canadian geese, coots, herons, mergansers, and ducks make their home in this area. Swans and American eagles can also be found in the area.

Bicyclists, walkers, and runners have three trails to choose from. Crooked Creek Trail is two miles long and parallels the lake. In addition, there is a wooded trail that features different views of the lake. A third trail that is a little over 3 miles long runs across the diversion dike and around the eastern shore of the lake.

Sheltered picnic areas are available for group activities. There is one picnic shelter in the beach area. Another picnic shelter is located below the wooded walk on Jacks Island, where visitors may also be able to see some of the ducks that Jacks Island is known for.

Dove hunting is permitted in the hunting field next to the lake. Dove hunting is one of the activities that Bennettsville is known for. Additional information regarding dove hunting season, as well as the rules and regulations for dove hunting, can be obtained by calling 843-661-4768.

Lake Paul Wallace has also become home to the annual Summer Beach Blast. The Summer Beach Blast was first held in 2002 and is an all-day community event featuring jet skiing, swimming, boating, socializing, and music. The most recent Beach Blast drew between 1,500 and 2,500 people.

For additional information on Lake Paul Wallace and the activities offered at the lake, interested parties can call 843-479-5600.