Rivers Are For Everyone | Katie Maglocci of Palmetto Outdoor
February 14, 2025
February 14, 2025
The only sound better than the rushing river, is the sound of laughter as floaters bobble through the class II whitewater rapids. Here in Columbia, we are blessed to have three distinct river systems. The Lower Saluda River and the Broad River converge in downtown Columbia to form the Congaree River. Each river is unique and offers different experiences. Tubing through the refreshing whitewater of the Lower Saluda River is the best way to cool off in the summer. The warm water of the Broad River is home to the Rocky Shoals Spider Lily, a protected flower that only blooms in the Southeast once a year. Finally, the mighty water of the Congaree River snakes its way down to form the boundary of Congaree National Park and eventually flows down through the Lowcountry.
I’m a transplant from Cincinnati, OH and originally landed in Columbia to attend USC. While in school, I craved something else to connect me to the city besides just being a student. That’s when I got a summer job at Palmetto Outdoor, a tubing and canoe outfitter, located seasonally at the West Columbia Riverwalk. I fell in love with how accessible our rivers are. Anyone can rent a tube, be shuttled upstream, and spend all day floating through the rapids or hanging out on one of the many islands along the way. In the confluence, you can feel the rush of the different rivers swirling beneath you. You can even see the State House in the distance towards the end of the trip. Although just outside the city’s center, the surrounding area is scenic and serene.
Here, the rivers are for everyone. No longer do I consider rivers as dividing lines, separating cities or counties. Rather, I see rivers as connectors, bringing together all different types of people. Thoughtful development in the form of bridges, riverwalks, and additional recreational access promotes life outside and time on our waterways. Accessibility will always improve, increase, and showcase our community value.
Our Tourism Ambassador Program is back, bringing fresh stories and exciting adventures from the Capital City/Lake Murray Country region. Our ambassadors highlight the area’s beauty, culture, and outdoor experiences, offering unique perspectives on what makes this destination special. Join Mayor Sloan Griffin, III as he explores Blythewood, paddle alongside Katie Maglocci at Palmetto Outdoors, and discover the region’s birdlife with John Tjaarda. Stay tuned throughout the year as they share their experiences and showcase the best of Capital City/Lake Murray Country.