From the newly renovated and festive Green Pond Landing & Event Center near the northern terminus to the historic interpretation of dams at the Thurmond Lake Visitor Center near the southern terminus, the Savannah River Scenic Byway offers a recreational and historic experience against the backdrop of the rural South. Although the Byway begins at Oakway on Highway 24 and ends at a bridge crossing the Savannah River on Highway 28 beyond the Thurmond Dam, both the marina and visitor center are distinct highway markers for this road trip. Green Pond Landing on Lake Hartwell, constructed in 2014, is hosting Lake Hartwell’s 5th Bassmaster Classic Tournament in 2027, giving it the status of holding this supreme bass fishing event more than any other lake. It also supports numerous tournaments available for all types of fishing classes. Beyond the Landing, Hartwell Lake Dam completed in 1962, impounds 55,590 surface acres and has a shoreline of 962 miles with landings, marinas, and parks.
Next in the drive is Richard B. Russell dam constructed in 1984 creating a lake of 26,653 acres. Further south and near the end of the Byway is the Strom Thurmond Dam constructed in 1953 forming a lake of 71,000 surface areas. Although the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers constructed the dams with the intent of hydroelectric power, flood damage reduction, recreation, fish & wildlife, and water supply quality; they are also a place of outdoor recreation pilgrimage for millions of visitors; as well as providing an interpretative history of the American dam building era. At the southern end of the Byway is the J. Strom Thurmond Visitor Center, displaying the role of this unique geography straddling the state line.
The 120,000-acre Sumter National Forest – Long Cane Ranger District stretches along portions of the Savannah River Scenic Byway and offers travelers a peaceful retreat into South Carolina’s natural beauty. This section of the forest is known for its rolling hardwood uplands, quiet pine stands, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and scenic overlooks that highlight the region’s rich river and forest ecosystems. The district has recreation areas with several camping units, picnic areas, boat launches and swimming areas. The Forks Area Trail System includes an internationally known biking trail network.
Additionally, a regional history of the American South corresponds to driving the Byway. The drive extends itself from the Upstate to the Deep South with historical remnants representing the early Native American culture, Revolutionary War, Antebellum South, and the Civil War, as well as turn of the century agriculture and industry. Museums, along with historic buildings and markers can be found in the small towns of Iva and McCormick.