🌊 Lake Waccamaw

Lake Waccamaw is a freshwater drainage lake located in Columbus County, North Carolina. It is the largest of the natural Carolina Bay lakes, with a surface area of 36 km2. Lake Waccamaw is fed by four creeks: First, Second, Third, and Big creeks. The outlet forms the Waccamaw River, which empties into the Atlantic ocean via the Winyah Bay at Georgetown, South Carolina. The lake and its respective river are named after the local Waccamaw-Siouan tribe, who are long inhabitants of the region. Lake Waccamaw is 15,000 - 32,000 years old, but already contains several endemic species including various fish, mussels, and snails. The lake is a popular recreational destination among residents and tourists, becoming a state park in 1976.