With three public courses in Sumter County and more than 40 others within an hour’s drive, Sumter is the sweetest spot to golf! Sumter’s courses offer a challenge to golfers of every skill level, and our mild four-season climate is great for year-round play. Sumter's own golf courses are Beech Creek Golf Club, Links at Lakewood and Crystal Lakes Golf Course.  There are also private courses, Carolina Lakes at Shaw and Sunset Country Club.

World famous Swan Lake-Iris Gardens features all eight known swan species and the most intensive plantings of Japanese iris in the United States. Manchester State Forest is home to Poinsett State Park, annual equestrian events, mountain biking and ATV trails, the High Hills extension of the SC Palmetto Trail and some of the best hunting in the state. Lake Marion offers 100,000 acres of prime fishing. The Lynches River and Woods Bay State Natural Area are a breathtaking trip for paddling enthusiasts. Neighboring Lake Wateree Recreation Area has been a favorite of Shaw families for generations, with cabins and boat rentals available in season, picnic pavilions, RV sites and a recreation center.

Sumter boasts more than 30 parks, from quiet “green spaces” to fully-equipped outdoor sports complexes. Palmetto Tennis Center is one of the largest public tennis complexs in South Carolina. It boasts 24 state of the art tennis courts and is lit for night play. Three on-site tennis pros offer private lessons and group clinics for beginner to advanced players from ages three and up. Other amenities include two ball machines, stringing service, restrooms and pro shop. Admission for regular play is free of charge! The Sumter Aquatics Center offers family swimming, exercise classes, lifeguard training and more. Dillon Park features soccer, football, softball, golf (at adjacent Crystal Lakes Golf Course), a walking track and equestrian ring. For exercise walkers, the Cypress Trail offers more than a half dozen routes throughout various areas of Sumter County. Boating, golfing, hiking, biking, fishing, hunting and horseback riding come naturally to most residents and visitors.

Indoor fun is readily available in Sumter, as well. A multiplex theatre features the latest attractions. An indoor fun park offers go-karts, miniature golf, arcade games and more.

For more information on recreational opportunities, please call the Swan Lake Visitors Center at 803-436-2640 or the Sumter County Recreation Department at 803-436-2248.