Piedmont Riverfront Park Opens May 8: 21-Acre Saluda River Destination Brings Paddling, Trails, and Conservation to Anderson

Years of planning have finally come to fruition. Anderson County is celebrating the official opening of Piedmont Riverfront Park on May 8, 2026 — a transformative 21-acre destination that brings new outdoor recreation, accessibility, and conservation opportunities to the Saluda River.

What Makes This Park Special:

🚣‍♂️ ADA-Accessible Paddling

The park features accessible paddling opportunities, making the Saluda River experience available to everyone. The kayak launch is part of phase one, opening up river adventures for all skill levels and abilities.

🥾 Scenic Trails & Nature

Miles of nature trails wind through the 21-acre property, offering stunning views where the Saluda River meets Big Brushy Creek. Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk or an invigorating hike, the park delivers.

🎣 Fishing & Recreation

Anglers will find prime fishing spots along the river, while families can enjoy the picnic shelter and open spaces perfect for gatherings and outdoor activities.

🌊 Saluda River Blueway Connection

Piedmont Riverfront Park connects to a 9-mile stretch of the Saluda River Blueway, linking paddlers to Dolly Cooper Park. This creates a continuous water trail that opens up even more exploration opportunities.

🏁 Saluda River Rally Finish Line

Mark your calendars for June 6 — the park will serve as the finish point for this year's Saluda River Rally, bringing paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts from across the region to celebrate the river.

Why This Matters:

This isn't just a new park — it's a major investment in outdoor recreation, accessibility, and conservation for Upstate South Carolina. Anderson County has created a space where families can connect with nature, where people of all abilities can enjoy the river, and where conservation meets community.

The 21 acres represent years of vision and planning, with phase one just the beginning. More amenities are already in the works, promising even more reasons to visit in the future.

Plan Your Visit:

Piedmont Riverfront Park officially opens May 8, 2026. Follow Anderson County Government on Facebook for opening day details, upcoming events, and the latest news on park development.

Whether you're a paddler, angler, hiker, or simply someone who loves the outdoors, this new destination belongs on your must-visit list. The Saluda River is calling — and now, there's a beautiful new place to answer.