Summers are best spent by the lake and Lake Wylie, located in South Carolina’s York County.
It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for things to do outside the city. Spanning over 325 miles of shoreline, the reservoir includes some of the best restaurants and attractions. Whether you’re looking for adventure or wish to relax and take in Lake Wylie’s stunning views, there’s something for everyone.
Take a trip to the lake, with friends or with the whole family, and experience the many things Lake Wylie has to offer.
Where to Eat
Sweetwater Sports Bar and Grill
Sweetwater Sports Bar and Grill is a family-friendly restaurant serving hand-crafted burgers, 30-plus craft beers, and specialty cocktails. Try the Lake Wylie burger, topped with coleslaw, cheddar, and chili. Or dig into the Over the Top nachos, jumbo buffalo chicken wings, or the Hawaiian teriyaki chicken sandwich.
Cost: Expect to spend $15 – $20 per person
Bagel Boat
This cute, bustling 50-seat cafe and drive-thru window has a variety of breakfast and lunch sandwiches using authentic New York City par baked, hand rolled, kettle boiled bagels, country breads, Kaiser rolls and wraps. They also cate. This is the best place to grab food for a day on the lake, or enjoy breakfast before heading out on the boat.
Papa Docs
You can’t get much closer to Lake Wylie than Papa Doc’s. The seafood restaurant and bar offers a waterfront patio, placing you directly in front of the lake’s gorgeous views. Start with calamari or hushpuppies with honey butter, then try some of their many seafood dishes, or indulge in one of their specialty options like blackened chicken pasta with a cream sauce and green onions. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try one of their milkshakes such as Lucky Leprechaun with lucky charms and marshmallow fluff.
Cost: Expect to spend $15 – $20 per person
Fast Frog Bakery and Cakes
Hoping to satisfy your sweet tooth? Fast Frog Bakery and Cakes should be at the top of the list of things to do at Lake Wylie. While the bakery offers custom cakes and cupcakes, stop in for some of their other delectable treats like muffins, cookies, and more, all made from scratch daily.
Cost: Expect to spend $5 – $8 per person
What to Do
Buster Boyd Boat Ramp
This popular landing is located in the middle of the town of Lake Wylie. Several stores, marinas, and restaurants are within walking distance, so this area is normally bustling with activity. A paved bicycle path begins here and runs though the surrounding neighborhood.
Cost: Free
Copperhead Island
With over 14 acres to explore, there’s no shortage of things to do on Copperhead Island, located right along Lake Wylie. The island includes select fishing piers, nature trails, and a volleyball court. Through the direct boat launching access, you can spend an afternoon right on the lake itself. The island can also be rented out and is ideal for small gatherings or events.
Cost: Mecklenburg County Resident: $62 – Mecklenburg County Resident: $163
McDowell Nature Center and Preserve
A few miles away from Copperhead Island sits McDowell Nature Center and Preserve. As Mecklenburg county’s oldest preserve, the center is home to live animals and a discovery hall. It’s also perfect for camping, featuring over 56 campsites open for reservation. And don’t forget to visit the gift shop before you leave.
Cost: Free to enter, camping costs vary seasonally, so check the website.
Ebenezer Park
Right on the shores of Lake Wylie sits Ebenezer Park, a York County park that’s the perfect mix of fun and tranquility. Spend the day or overnight in one of the park’s 67 campsites. Enjoy fishing and boating along the lake or take a dip in a roped-off swimming area. The park also offers canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and a variety of athletic courts.
Cost: Camping is $18 – $28 per person
Family Fun
Lake Wylie Bowl N’ Bounce
Perfect for a family outing, Lake Wylie Bowl N’ Bounce is for both the young and the young at heart. The family entertainment center provides 16 bowling lanes, laser tag, and an arcade. If you’re looking to host a party, the family center also has adult and child party packages, making Lake Wylie Bowl N’ Bounce great for all ages.
Cost: Expect to spend between $5 – $30
Pier 88 Yacht Club
If you’re looking to spend some time on the water with the kids, Pier 88 Yacht Club is the way to go. Established in 2007, they offer boat, stand up paddleboard, and kayak rentals. After your time on the water, stop into their galley for a bite to eat, and then to the gift shop for something to commemorate the experience.
Cost: Day rates start at $275
