School is almost out and the temperatures are rising. Here are a few ways you can beat the heat this summer.

Splash Pads

The kids will have a great time running around and staying cool at one of the splash pads at either Evans Towne Center Park...

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...or the Evans Library Park. Both locations also have large playgrounds to also keep the kiddos entertained.

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Clarks Hill Lake

One of the best ways to beat the heat is to head to Clarks Hill Lake where you can enjoy 1,200 miles of unspoiled shoreline and 71,000 acres of freshwater fun. Activities on Clarks Hill Lake include:

Boating…Bring your own or rent one from Clarks Hill Marina.

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Perhaps jet-skiing is more your style? Rentals are available at Keg Creek Water Sports.

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Swimming- Put your toes in the sand at one of the many beaches on Clarks Hill. Beach Access at the following parks: Lake Springs, Mistletoe State Park, Petersburg Park, Pointes West Army Resort, West Dam Park and Wildwood Park.

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Paddle Sports

Canoeing, Kayaking and Paddle Boarding are among the most popular activities in Columbia County and with good reason. We have three different bodies of water and many routes that make for an amazing day on the water.

Augusta Canal/ Savannah Rapids Park- Meander down the current and past historic landmark of the historic Augusta Canal. This route begins at the Augusta Canal Headgates and ends in downtown Augusta.

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Clarks Hill Lake is worth mentioning here as well because the many coves are great for paddling.

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The Savannah River- There are several Routes you can choose on the Savannah River…

Betty’s Branch is a tributary to the Savannah River and is easy for beginners because this route begins and ends at the same location. This route is also great because it has some of the most picturesque scenery only accessible by water and abundant wildlife.

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The Dam Route- The best view of J. Strom Thurmond Dam, which forms Clarks Hill Lake, is from the Savannah River. See the Dam in all its glory!

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Stallings Island- Paddle through the “99 Islands” to famous, Stallings Island. Stallings Island is a National Landmark as it was the site where the oldest known Native American Pottery was discovered. Due to the delicate nature of the site, no one is allowed on the island. But the trip is worth your time for a photo op with one of the resident donkeys placed there by the Archaeological Conservancy to maintain vegetation. This route is offered through guided tours.

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Kayak rentals and guided tours are available through, Cole Watkins Tours, Keg Creek Watersports, Outdoors Augusta and Savannah River Kayak Rentals.