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You can now rent kayaks on Lexington’s Old Mill Pond. What you should know

A walking trail around Lexington’s Old Mill Pond will open to the public once the pond, drained by a 2015 dam failure, is refilled.
A walking trail around Lexington’s Old Mill Pond will open to the public once the pond, drained by a 2015 dam failure, is refilled. Courtesy of the Town of Lexington, SC

The Old Mill Pond is often enjoyed by foot, under the trees and along the shore where the Lexington Manufacturing Company once turned cotton into cloth. You can now explore the park by water.

Old Mill Rentals is a new business offering patrons the chance to paddle their way around, renting kayaks on the pond for the first time.

“We are so excited to get people out on the water to enjoy the Old Mill Pond in a new way,” Old Mill Rentals posted on social media.

Here’s everything you need to know.

What, where and how

Old Mill Rentals is open weekly, Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. until 5:15 p.m., and has single kayaks available for $25 an hour. To reserve a slot a kayak, you can book ahead online or make your way to 711 East Main Street to see what is available.

You can park in the upper parking lot. Then head over to the boat launch.

Once you get there, Old Mill Rentals will have everything you need to set sail: including a life jacket, a paddle and waterproof phone holders, if needed.

There are age restrictions. The minimum age to rent a kayak is 12 years old, and those 17 and younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, who will be required to sign a waiver.

There is also a weight limit. The kayaks provided by Old Mill Rentals can accomodate up to 275 pounds.

Patrons are encouraged to be punctual. You cannot have your rental time extended due to tardiness. Similiarly, if you return your kayak late after your hour is up, you will be charged.

If inclement weather happens, online bookings will be canceled and refunded.

This story was originally published March 23, 2026 at 1:34 PM.

Alexa Jurado
The State
Alexa Jurado is a news reporter for The State covering Lexington County and Richland County schools. She previously wrote about the University of South Carolina and contributes to this coverage. A Chicago suburbs native, Alexa graduated from Marquette University and previously wrote for publications in Illinois and Wisconsin. Her work has been recognized by the Society of Professional Journalists, the Milwaukee Press Club and the South Carolina Press Association.
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