Riverwalk Spotlight: West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater
If you’ve ever spoken with Palmetto Outdoor owner Mike Mayo, you’ve probably heard him say: “How much access is needed to the river? More.” Even though we specialize in getting people on the river, we’re also passionate about getting people to go up to the river. That’s why we’ll be highlighting the Three Rivers Region’s awesome riverwalks in our blog series Riverwalk Spotlight. This week we’re starting with the home of Palmetto Outdoor tubing, the West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater.
Features
The Gervais St. Bridge. The West Columbia Riverwalk begins right beside the famous Gervais St. Bridge, which connects Columbia to West Columbia. The bridge, which serves as an iconic landmark for the Columbia area, opened in 1927 and is 1,415 feet long.
Pieces of history. The riverwalk is lined with wayside signs explaining the significance of the area, its ecology, and historical landmarks. We love talking about the SS Columbia, an old paddle wheel steamer that sits beneath the river’s surface and can be seen when the water is low. Another piece of history to note: the bathrooms are a replica of an inn that would have been in that area in the 1740s.
Boat launch. Paddlers and tubers can put in right below the amphitheater. Large stone steps lead right down to the water, making for easy access.
The amphitheater. The amphitheater at the center of the park is home to many public events and the occasional wedding. Our favorite event is Jazz on the River which takes place every Thursday evening in the fall.
Things to do
Come tubing with us! The West Columbia Riverwalk is the home of Palmetto Outdoor tubing. We’re open 7 days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and often are open earlier with limited hours (make sure to call ahead). Visit the Tube page to learn more.
Walk the trails. The ADA accessible trails continue for miles, eventually taking you into the neighboring city of Cayce. Head left from the entrance to go under the Gervais St. Bridge and spot tubers in the water, and head right if you’re looking for a longer trek.
Hang out in a hammock. Palmetto Outdoor is now renting ENO hammocks from our outpost at 300 Candi Ln. The West Columbia Riverwalk is a great place to hang, just make sure you’re not blocking the path for others.
Chill on the lawn. Near the entrance there is a nice grassy lawn behind Stone River. It’s a great place to spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic with friends or a good book.
Other things to know
ADA accessible. The entirety of the riverwalk is ADA accessible, meaning the trails meet certain width, grade, and surface requirements.
Parking. The park has its own small parking lot, but there is also plenty of free public parking right across the street and in walking distance.
Come prepared. Be sure to check West Columbia’s socials for any closure notices.
A huge thank you is due to our friends at the River Alliance for their decades of work establishing the Three Rivers Greenway, the Three Rivers Region’s riverwalk system as a whole. Because of them, Columbia, West Columbia, and Cayce residents and visitors are able to enjoy everything our three rivers have to offer.