Lake Bowen

Spartanburg Water System has established a specific watercraft permitting fee structure for both Lake Bowen and Lake Blalock, as well as guidelines for the specific watercraft allowed on each reservoir.

Please note that no watercraft of any kind is allowed for permitting on Municipal Reservoir #1.

Permits can be purchased for seasonal or daily use, and fees are based on horsepower and residence.

"Frequently Asked Questions" About Our Updated Watercraft Permit Fees

Summary of Boat Permitting/Fees

Placement of Permits

In addition to your Spartanburg Water permit, you will also need a state registration from SCDNR.

SCDNR Boating Laws and Responsibilities

To purchase a watercraft permit for the first time at either reservoir or for questions:

Lake Bowen Warden’s Office - (864) 592-2240

Lake Blalock Warden's Office - (864) 578-5442

Spartanburg Water has adopted specific policies and procedures that govern any recreational activities on Lake Bowen and Lake Blalock. These rules and regulations have been adopted to ensure that all users of our lakes conduct their recreational activities in a safe and conscientious manner. Before participating in any recreational activities on Lake Bowen or Lake Blalock, please read through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Boating Regulations.

Before you come to our lakes:

• Let someone know where you are going to be fishing or boating and when you will return.
• Check all personal flotation devices (PFD), i.e. life jackets, and make sure they are in good serviceable condition and the correct sizes for all passengers (especially children).
• Check the weather before you go.
• Check fuel, battery and boat trailer (lights, tires and tie downs).
• Check to see if the drain plug is in the boat and whether or not you have the keys for the boat.

On the Water:

• South Carolina law requires that all children under 12 years of age must wear a PFD (life jacket) if the watercraft is under 16 feet in length and when the motor is running.
• Have all PFDs out and accessible whenever out on the lake.
• Do not operate a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol can affect you up to three times more on the water than on land.
• Personal watercraft may operate only from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
• When pulling someone on a tube or pulling a skier, you must have a mirror or an observer. Only two individuals are allowed to be pulled by any boat. 
• Check all navigation lights before legal sunset. If not operating correctly, you will have time to return to the dock.
• Know your limitations: apply sunscreen, drink lots of water, and watch your energy level.
• Obey all regulatory markers (buoys): No Wake, Controlled Area and Danger Area.
• Courtesy boat inspections are available by our wardens upon request.

Important SCDNR Links:

SCDNR: Boating in South Carolina

SCDNR: Titling and Registration

Spartanburg Water maintains ownership of our drinking water supply reservoirs, including shoreline buffer property up to the 827’ Mean Sea Contour Line above the water's edge for Lake Bowen. We take this responsibility seriously and follow a strict set of policies and procedures to ensure the long-term health and quality of the reservoirs that supply our community with its drinking water.

Lake Bowen provides an excellent source of high quality drinking water for the people of the Spartanburg area. Protection of this resource is needed to ensure that current and future generations will continue to enjoy drinking water from the reservoir and also have excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation and education. Protection of the reservoir begins with the surrounding watershed and associated land use practices. Please read the Resolution to Protect Water Quality, adopted by the Commission of Public Works of the City of Spartanburg.