Skip to main content

Lake Wylie - Newcomers Guide 2026

Page 1

Living on

LakeWylie N EWCO M E R S

G U I DE 2026

An insider’s guide to living at the Lake COVERING :

+

Seasonal Events, Area Map and DINING GUIDE

LAKE WYLIE CLOVER YORK STEELE CREEK TEGA CAY FORT MILL BELMONT


McSpadden Homes Delivers... A professional, predictable, detailed, and systematic design/build experience • • • • •

Seamless experience for your custom Design/Build Exclusive floorplans with customization for a streamlined build Certified Interior Designer and state of the art Design Center Dedicated Project Development Team Real-time Project updates with Buildertrend

Give us a call or visit our website to find out about our newest enclave - Central Park South in Belmont!

®

548 Nautical Drive, Ste. 201 • Lake Wylie, SC 29710 • 704.825.7324 • McSpaddenHomes.com


Protecting What’s Important Property Liability Workers Comp Home Auto Health Employee Benefits Medicare Cyber Special Risks Fidelity & Surety Bonds Surplus Lines

800-849-9287

Call today for a competitive quote. Insurance

Proudly serving Lake Wylie since 1985 www.watsoninsurance.com


FOR MORE INFO

(980) 704-4310 vale@druckerandfalk.com valecampus.com 368 Sublime Summer Lane, Clover, SC 29710

EXCLUSIVE OFFER! Join Our Preferred Employee Program! 5% Discounted Rent (on a 12 month lease)

8 Weeks Free Rent!

Waived Application & Admin Fees

Studios, 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments

Fitness Center & Multipurpose Room

Wellness Offerings

Outdoor Amenities

Designer Kitchens with Beverage Coolers, Walk-in Closets with Custom Shelving

Equipped with state-ofthe-art Technogym & REAX Equipment

Wet & Dry Saunas, Cold Plunge, Yoga & Meditation Spaces & Personalized Wellness Services

Courtyards, Saltwater Pool & Hot Tub, Fire Pits, Grilling Stations, Dog Park, Scenic Pond & Walking Trails

Additional Features

Pursuing WELL & Green Globes Certifications | Con Conditioned Corridors | Elevators | 24/7 Access Control & Butterfly Keyless Entry | EV Charging | Bike & Storage Units

YOUR WELLNESS. YOUR HOME. ONE APP. Living Experience

Pay rent, request repairs & access property info Earn points for discounted products, experiences & rent Easy in-app shopping & delivery

Wellness & Fitness

Workout content from leading fitness partners Daily mindfulness & mental wellness content Digital scans for health, body & nutrition metrics Integration with wearables for daily tracking Personalized nutrition & meal planning Live in-app wellness coaching

Smart Home

Wellness programming for lights, speakers, thermostat & doors 24/7 Keyless Entry to unit door & all amenity spaces.

TECHNOLOGY POWERED BY


Your Road To Financial Freedom Starts Here.

Let’s Plan Your Future

Sloan Financial has served the Clover and Lake Wylie community for over 30 years. Sloan Financial has served the Clover and Lake

With in over financial planning, taxes, and insurance, we are able to recommend Wylie expertise community for 30 years. products, services, and strategies to maximize your financial su success. With experience in financial planning, tax services, and insurance, we are able to recommend products Call for a complimentary financial review and see what we can do to help pave your and services to help ensure your financial success.

road to financial freedom.

 Financial Planning  Tax Planning Reduction Strategies  Debt Financial Planning Insurance Insurance Services  Planning · Retirement · Home Insurance · Income Investments Strategies · Auto Insurance · Tax Strategies · IRA Distributions · 401(k) Rollovers · Estate Planning · Securities and Investments

· Life Insurance · Long-Term Care · Medicare Supplements

14741474 Highway 55 East | Suite 29710 Highway 55 East | Suite500 500| | Clover, Clover, SC SC 29710

www.sloanfinancial.net 803.222.2892 | www.sloanfinancial.net

Tax Services · Individual · Small Business · Corporate · Estates · Trusts · Non-Profits · Clergy

Angela Sloan Founder

Angela Sloan

Call for a no cost, no obligation appointment

(803) 222-2892

Securities Securities and and advisory advisory services services offered offered through through Madison Madison Avenue Avenue Securities, Securities, LLC LLC (MAS), (MAS), aa registered registered Investment Investment Advisor, Advisor, member member FINRA FINRA and and SIPC. SIPC. MAS MAS and and Sloan Sloan Financial Financial are are not not affiliated affiliated companies. companies.


CONTENTS 2026

Living on

LakeWylie NEWCOMERS

10 About The Area 12 Lake Wylie 18 Development Update 20 Clover 22 York 24 Steele Creek

GUIDE

Published by SCBIZ Executive Editor Jason Thomas jthomas@scbiznews.com • 864-568-7570 Editor, Custom Publishing Division Robin Gibson rgibson@scbiznews.com • 854-529-1228 Advertising Sales Jane DuBois jane@littlewoodsmarketing.com • 704-287-8668 Contributing Writers Susan Bromfield, Jan Todd, Kathy Widenhouse Contributing Photographers Susan Bromfield, Kim McManus, Dana Sipper - Sipper Photography, Jan Todd, Kathy Widenhouse The entire contents of this publication are copyrighted by SC Business Publications LLC with all rights reserved. Any reproduction or use of the content within this publication without permission is prohibited.

26 Tega Cay 28 Fort Mill 30 Belmont 31 Rock Hill 34 Education 36 Health Care 41 Sports/Recreation 50 Caring Community 54 Food/Drink

About The Cover: Lake Wylie is full of quiet, secluded coves that offer easy lake access to property owners and the public alike. Photo by Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography

e i l y W e k a L

Living on

NEWCO

MERS

G U ID20E 26

r’s guide An insidethe Lake at to living : COVERING

+

Map ents, Area Seasonal Ev UIDE G NG NI DI d an

IE LAKE WYL CLOVER YORK EK STEELE CRE TEGA CAY FORT MILL BELMONT

58 Calendar/Map 62 Newcomer Information 63 Camp Thunderbird 4

Living On Lake Wylie

1092 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 114 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 www.scbiz.com


ABOUT THE AREA

WELCOME TO Lake Wylie, South Carolina –

The Perfect Setting by Susan Bromfield

Fisherman near River Hills Country Club. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

O

n behalf of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce, it is a pleasure to welcome you to this beautiful area. Lake Wylie is “The Perfect Setting.” It is one of the fastest-growing areas in York County and one of the most prosperous in the region. Nestled on the northwest shore of 13,433-acre Lake Wylie and a short drive from downtown Charlotte, it is ideally situated for both work and play. The leisure and excitement of lakeside living, small-town atmosphere and convenient proximity to a metropolitan city make Lake Wylie the perfect setting for home and business. The quality of life and productive involvement of residents es-

6

Living On Lake Wylie

tablish a dynamic business environment. The Lake Wylie community offers a wide range of housing options. Elegant lakeside living, cozy wooded neighborhoods and spacious condominiums add to the feeling of a year-round resort. Lake Wylie has the added advantage of an excellent education system. The schools are among the best in the state, employing highly qualified and dedicated teachers, building outstanding learning facilities and providing students with effective resources and advanced equipment. Recreation is an integral part of the Lake Wylie lifestyle. With 325 miles of shoreline, the lake is ideal for boating, fishing, water

skiing and sailing. Distinct and colorful seasonal changes combined with a mild climate enhance the area’s beauty, but also afford yearround enjoyment of golf, tennis and bicycling. Community events include the “Lights on the Lake,” an annual holiday boat parade and “Christmas by the Lake” held each year in December, the Fourth of July spectacular fireworks display and so many other events and activities. Lake Wylie is located 12 miles from Charlotte, one of the nation’s fastest-growing commercial and financial centers. The city offers theater, operas, symphonies, museums, fine dining and a variety of shopping areas. The Charlotte Douglas International Airport Continued on page 8


SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY TO SCHEDULE A TOUR, PLEASE CONTACT THE MEMBERSHIP & MARKETING DIRECTOR AT MEMBERSHIP@RIVERHILLSCC.OR G OR AT (803) 621-3115. NO WAITLISTS!

Please visit our website for more information! www.riverhillscc.org

OUR MISSION River Hills Country Club strives to give you, your family, and your guests a one of a kind experience paired with exceptional customer service and a family oriented atmosphere. We endeavor to go above and beyond your expectations in every area of our facilities including dining, golf, swim, fitness, and racquet sports.


ABOUT THE AREA Continued from page 6 is conveniently located minutes away. For professional sports lovers, Charlotte is home to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers; the Charlotte Hornets of the NBA; Charlotte FC of Major League Soccer; the Charlotte Knights, a AAA minor league baseball affiliate of the Chicago White Sox; and the Charlotte Checkers, a member of the American Hockey League affiliated with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes. The Charlotte Eagles (United Soccer Leagues) and Charlotte Hounds (Major League Lacrosse) also play home games in the Queen City. Lowe's Motor Speedway in nearby Concord, N.C., hosts NASCAR events throughout the year, including the sport's annual all-star race, and the Charlotte metro area is considered the hub for stock car racing. There are plenty of college sports yearround as well. The University of North Carolina Charlotte fields teams in a variety of NCAA Division 1 sports, as does Winthrop University, Davidson College, Johnson C. Smith University and numerous other, smaller schools. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, with its seasonal gardens and displays, is located in nearby Belmont. Carowinds, a 400-acre theme park that straddles the S.C./N.C. state

line near Fort Mill, has been in operation since 1973. The park is a popular destination for families and is always adding new features and events, and has expanded its offering to more off-season festivities for Halloween and the year-end holiday season. In contrast to the wall-to-wall activity of Carowinds and the suburban lifestyle of many lake neighborhoods, the rural areas by the lake include farms and farm stands that offer produce and beautiful rural settings. There is an abundance of opportunities to enjoy leisure time at and near the lake no matter what appeals to you throughout the year. Lake Wylie is truly a hidden treasure — a vibrant and thriving community where geography, people and economic vitality have created a distinctive lifestyle. As Lake Wylie's population surged during the past decade,

Waterskiing is one of the many recreational activities available on Lake Wylie. (Photo/Jan Todd)

new businesses have opened, creating many jobs and economic opportunities.

The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Visitor Center, located at 264 Latitude Lane,

has created an inviting atmosphere to welcome visitors. A full assortment of brochures and information is available there.

We hope that this “Living on Lake Wylie”

newcomer magazine gives you some idea of why so many new families are making this

place their home. Visit lakewyliesc.com to learn more about all the area has to offer.

Sincerely,

Susan Bromfield, President

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Regattas are held regularly on Lake Wylie. (Photo by Jan Todd)

8

Living On Lake Wylie


ABOUT LAKE WYLIE

History & Fun Facts The Buster Boyd Bridge connects North and South Carolina across Lake Wylie. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

Scan to see our showroom

Where the Love of Fine Jewelry Begins Full Service Jeweler Jody Chandler/ Graduate Gemologist-GIA Retail and Custom Design, Jewelry Repair, Watch Repair and Appraisals We buy Gold and Silver!

5 EXECUTIVE COURT | SUITE 101 | LAKE WYLIE | 803-818-1100 d J_ALDEN_LAKEWYLIE 2026 Newcomers Guide

9


ABOUT THE AREA

F

or millennia before there was a Lake Wylie, the 224-mile Catawba River ran through our region, undeterred by dams. Originating in the Appalachian Mountains in western North Carolina, the river was named for the Catawba tribe of Native Americans, whose name was translated in their language as “the people of the river.” European settlers eventually came to the region and built homes along the banks of the river, but the shoalfilled, turbulent waters were not viable for significant traffic. In the late 1800s, a physician named Dr. Walker Gill Wylie realized the potential of the river. Wylie, who was born in nearby Chester, was an accomplished surgeon in New York. In addition to his medical skills, Wylie had a civil engineering degree from the University of South Carolina and had an interest in the process of harnessing water to produce electricity, a revolutionary idea at the time. Dr. Wylie yearned to spur industrial development near his hometown, and along with his brother, Dr. Robert H. Wylie, planned to build a hydro station at India Hook Shoals. Dr. Gill Wylie persuaded one of his patients, J.B. “Buck” Duke, to help finance the project. The two brothers created the Catawba Power Co. and completed the dam in 1904, resulting in a lake they christened “Catawba Lake.” The dam was enlarged in 1924, expanding the lake to its current size of about 13,400 acres with 325 miles of shoreline. Commonly known to locals as “the river,” Catawba Lake was renamed Lake Wylie in 1960 to honor Dr. Gill Wylie. His power plant merged with Duke Power Co. in 1927. Lake Wylie is the oldest lake along

10

Living On Lake Wylie

the Catawba-Wateree River chain, now consisting of 11 lakes providing power to communities from Marion, N.C., down to Camden. S.C. Lake Norman, north of Charlotte, is the largest lake in the chain, and Lake Wylie is second largest. Lake Wylie is located in three different counties, York in South Carolina and Gaston and Mecklenburg in North Carolina. The unique diversity in the three counties offers residents a variety of different lifestyles, from rural areas to near metro. Until the 1970s, much of the land surrounding the lake was owned by Duke Energy Corp., and leased to individuals for recreational use. People built lowcost cabins, or “river shacks”, or perhaps installed mobile homes, on their leased lots. When Duke Energy began to release these lots for sale, some new owners replaced existing cabins with permanent homes, and new communities such as River Hills and Tega Cay began to develop. Today, only a few of the original river cabins remain, some owned by families of the original lessors, and others used as “weekender” properties. There are many styles of neighborhoods along the shorelines of the lake today. The lake and shorelines are regulated by Duke Energy, partnering with local government and agencies. Duke Energy issues permits for building and renovating docks, and is responsible for managing and stabilizing shorelines, managing lake levels and scheduling flow releases. Lake Wylie generally does not experience radical fluctuations in levels, and is designed as a “year-round” lake so that residents can enjoy boating, fishing and water recreation all year long. The Buster Boyd Bridge, joining the North Carolina side of the lake to the South

A plane flying under the Buster Boyd Bridge, which opened in 1923. (Photo/Provided by Jan Todd)

This 1950s 'river shack' was typical of many of the homes on Lake Wylie before the 1970s. (Photo/Provided by Jan Todd)

Carolina side, has been a landmark since the first one was built in 1923. It was named for a farmer and politician who fought for the construction of the bridge, and donated land on the N.C. side. The original bridge was replaced in 1960 and again in 2001, when it was expanded to four lanes. A marker on the bridge is visible from the lake, identifying the position of the state line. Interestingly, North Carolina is on the southern end of the bridge, and South Carolina is on the northern end!


Lake Wylie

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Working Together Supporting Each Other

Working Together Staying Connected Supporting Each Other WConnected e Succeed Staying We Succeed THE BUSINESS OF A THRIVING COMMUNITY

Interested in joining this winning team? Call Charlie at 803.831.2827 www.lakewyliesc.com

The Business of a Thriving Community Interested in joining this winning team? CallCharlie Kathy at Call at803.831.2827 803.831.2827 www.lakewyliesc.com


OUR COMMUNITIES

LAKE WYLIE

A cove at River Hills Marina on Lake Wylie. (Photo/Jan Todd)

T

he community of Lake Wylie is one of the fastest-growing areas in the Piedmont region of South Carolina. Population has nearly tripled in the past decade, and new neighborhoods have sprung up ranging from multifamily apartment and condominium complexes to new luxury home developments. With its close proximity to Charlotte, Gastonia, and the Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), residents find Lake Wylie a convenient place

NUMBERS YOU NEED

Living On Lake Wylie

the Allison Creek peninsula on Lake Wylie. Although this area shares the 29745 ZIP code with York, its inclusion in the CSD and closeness to Lake Wylie pull residents in to the business economy and shopping and restaurant district of Lake Wylie. This area, too, has experienced explosive growth with luxury lakeside developments and new mid-priced neighborhoods. The first neighborhood development Continued on page 13

All phone numbers are 803 area code, except where noted

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce.....831-2827 264 Latitude Lane, #101, Lake Wylie, SC 29710 lakewyliechambersc.com York County Water & Sewer ........... 909-7275 Duke Energy ............... 800-769-3766 York Electric Co-op............................ 684-4248

12

to live, whether they work in York County or across the state line. The “town” of Lake Wylie is an unincorporated portion of York County that stretches from the Buster Boyd Bridge on S.C. 49, up to neighborhoods along Pole Branch Road and S.C. 274, and down to Lake Wylie Road. It shares the Clover ZIP code of 29710, and is part of the excellent Clover School District. Farther south on S.C. 274, the Clover School District extends to

York County Natural Gas Authority ....323-5304 York County Economic Development....802-4300 D&D Sanitation ........................ 222-3862 Comporium.................................888-403-2667 Clover School District .......................... 810-8000


Continued from page 12 in Lake Wylie was River Hills Plantation, begun in the early 1970s. This gated community, with a marina, country club with golf and tennis, lakeside parks and abundant recreation opportunities, set the stage for Lake Wylie as a resort locality. The natural beauty of the area and abundance of leisure activities on and surrounding the lake provide attractive lifestyle options for families and individuals of all ages. As people cross the bridge into Lake Wylie from North Carolina, they’ll find lower gas prices and taxes than in the Tar Heel State. They’ll find plenty of casual dining opportunities, many with outdoor seating. Lake Wylie offers a small-town atmosphere, with friendly people who have moved here from all over the country and even the world. Because Lake Wylie is an emerging community with many residents from elsewhere, new arrivals will find a welcoming atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to get involved in local clubs and organizations. The Lake Wylie Athletic Association provides team sports opportunities for children, and the Clover School District Community YMCA has an outstanding aquatic center with indoor and outdoor pools, gymnasium and racquetball courts. Field Day Park at Lake Wylie, located near Paddlers Cove, is a 32-acre complex featuring many amenities, including lighted ballfields and multipurpose fields, walking trail, concession stand, restrooms, picnic areas and community center, to name a few. Several neighborhoods in the area have swimming pools and other amenities promoting active lifestyles. Lake access for residents is available in a few neighborhoods, and the public boat landings in Lake Wylie and nearby Allison Creek have areas for public fishing. Local farms in York County offer fresh-grown produce and meat products with easy-access farm stands in the Lake Wylie shopping district. Or, residents can venture to the farms for pick-your-own strawberries, hard cider tastings, corn mazes and festivities. The emphasis on locally

grown produce has become evident in Lake Wylie restaurants, as well. The star of the show in Lake Wylie, though, is the lake itself. Those lucky enough to live on the waterfront have instant access to the lake for boating, fishing, sailing, and water sports. Neighborhood and public marinas, and boat landings provide access to the water. Many social activities revolve around lake activities, where people can escape to the serenity of the water,

reflecting on the blessings and joy of living in Lake Wylie. The Charlotte airport, one of the busiest in the U.S., has more than 160 nonstop destinations around the world. Lake Wylie residents find it easy to travel for business or pleasure with quick access to the airport. In addition, mountain destinations are just a two-hour drive away, and beaches are within a three-to fourhour drive.

2026 Newcomers Guide

13


OUR COMMUNITIES

The Lake Wylie Athletic Association provides a variety of team sports activities for children in the area. (Photo by Jan Todd)

A truckload of peaches from one of York County's many produce farms. (Photo/Kim McManus)

Because Lake Wylie is an emerging community with many residents from elsewhere, new arrivals will find a welcoming atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to get involved.

14

Living On Lake Wylie


OUR COMMUNITIES

Paddleboarding is a popular activity on Lake Wylie. (Photo/Jan Todd)

Welcoming New Patients at Carolina Family Dentistry Schedule your appointment today.

New Patients Receive

50 OFF

$

Any Dental Procedure Expires 12/31/26

244 Latitude Ln., Suite 103 | www.CarolinaFamilyDentistry.com

803.831.2171

2026 Newcomers Guide

15


OUR COMMUNITIES

Lake Wylie continues strong growth trend

by Susan Bromfield, President Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

L

ake Wylie’s economic growth shows no signs of abating. Residential and commercial developments continue to sprout up all over the Lake Wylie area. The resort lake lifestyle is an economic engine for the region. An influx of new residents provides

opportunity for existing businesses to grow and for new businesses to invest and locate to the area. The abundance of new housing developments illustrates the high demand from families and retirees seeking to move here. Of course, with growth come challenges of a strained infrastructure and the need for the county to have a long-range plan and ordinances in place to guide the growth in this unincorporated part of the county.

The lake also attracts a variety of water-related businesses, such as boat sales and repair, watercraft rentals and others. Dining options are increasing to cater to the growing residential and tourist populations. In fact, a new Starbucks is now open at Lake Wylie. Lake Wylie is home to River Hills Country Club, the first gated, environmentally sensitive and planned community in the Charlotte region. A major building renovation project

The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

264 Latitude Lane Lake Wylie, SC, 29710 You can call the staff at 803831-2827. Go online to www. lakewyliesc.com for more information.

The resort lake lifestyle is an economic engine for the region.

16

Living On Lake Wylie


OUR COMMUNITIES was completed in 2023 that included extensive renovation and redecoration to the club facility. The community also includes a fitness center, swimming pools, tennis courts and an 18-hole golf course, one of the most beautiful and challenging in the area. River Hills Marina has updated its facility and has rental offices, boat docks and a picnic pavilion. River Hills’ tag line, “Come Home to a Resort … Every Day,” clearly describes the appeal to this beautiful neighborhood on the lake. Membership to the club, the only gated golf course and marina community on Lake Wylie, is open to the public and is very affordable. The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce is known for being a progressive leader in the community. It has been welcoming visitors and making an excellent first impression to people coming into South Carolina for 18 years at its Visitor Center. The chamber also operates a Lake Wylie Small Business Center with beautifully

Population data for ZIP Code 29710 40,000

35,000

30,000

24%

Percent growth from 2015 – 2023

33,542

35,157

36,944

37,256

37,494

37,607

2021

2022

39,272

34,361

31,611

25,000

20,000 2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2023

Source: US Census Bureau

furnished rental offices, making it easy for new businesses to relocate or for startups to launch. Now in its 45th year, the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce continues to promote the Lake Wylie area and

encourage positive, sustainable growth while helping businesses prosper in the fast-growing area. With the chamber’s hands-on approach, business prospects and visitors to the area are welcomed and given personalized attention.

Enjoy our Lake Wylie location at Joyner’s Marina as well as reciprocal access to Lake Norman, Myrtle Beach, Wilmington, Charleston, Savannah and 400+ other locations in the US, Canada, Europe and Australia. We Buy and Maintain Boats

You Join the Club

Get Unlimited, FREE Training

Reserve a Boat and Enjoy!

704-943-4485 • FreedomBoatClubLKW.com

2026 Newcomers Guide

17


OUR COMMUNITIES

A classic 2-bedroom river cabin, built in 1943. Over the years, the interior was beautifully renovated and outdoor living spaces were expanded. Located near The Palisades, with wide open views, the property sold in 2024 for $812,000.

Winter Real Estate Market turns up the heat

W

By Drew Choate

e’re entering what is typically the “sleepy season” for real estate activity. Buyers are usually preoccupied with busy year-end work and school activities, holiday schedules and winter weather challenges. Sellers sometimes take a break from marketing their homes until spring flowers start to bloom. 18

Living On Lake Wylie

Traditionally, home sales start tapering off when school starts. This year, however, there was a surge of activity in September/ October — signaling a strong finish for 2025 after a sluggish start to the year. Higher inventory levels throughout the year, lower mortgage rates and slowing price increases spurred buyers to action.

Available inventory (number of listings) has tapered off a bit, and with the recent uptick in buyer activity, prospective sellers may want to consider listing now to take advantage of reduced competition. Through the end of September, year-to-date home sales in the greater Lake Wylie area were 12% higher than the same period last year. In the Clover


School District, sales were up 16%. New home sales in Lakeside Glen and Westport (neighborhoods in the southeastern section of the district) were responsible for a good chunk of this growth. Both on and off the lake, the average listing has been staying on the market longer. Time on market is typically 55 days for a non-waterfront, and 71 days for a waterfront home prior to securing a purchase contract. When priced correctly, a new listing sells more quickly and for near — or even above — the asking price. The longer a property is on the market, the steeper the discount is from the seller’s original goal. The average home price is about $525,000 for a non-waterfront home, and $1,475,000 for a waterfront home in the Lake Wylie area. An undeveloped waterfront lot averages about $630,000 for a parcel under two acres in size. Lake lot inventory is extremely tight, driving prices up significantly compared to just a few years ago. Over the past five years, Lake Wylie non-waterfront home prices have increased 65%, and waterfront home prices have jumped 93%. Undeveloped waterfront lot prices are up a whopping 134%, due to tighter inventory as building along the shorelines has increased. Comparing price tags, a buyer in

In recent years, buyers have been drawn to lots with “river cabins”, small structures designed for recreational use of the lake. When the shoreline of Lake Wylie was developed more than sixty years ago, many of the early lots leased and then sold by Duke Energy featured long range views and premium access locations. The original buildings on

these lots were usually not primary homes and contained only the basic necessities for enjoying a weekend on the water. During the past couple of decades, buyers who plan to build on Lake Wylie have sometimes purchased these river cabins, either removing the original building immediately to begin construction on their new

2019 would pay a premium of about $450,000 for a waterfront home compared to a similarly appointed home off the lake. Currently, the premium is about $950,000. The jump has priced some buyers out of the market for lakefront property. However, lake enthusiasts will find a wide range of neighborhoods in close proximity to boat landings, featuring interior homes with lake views or a few homes with limited lake access. Properties that touch the water that are ineligible for a dock — yet provide some direct lake access for launching kayaks or paddleboards — generally sell for about $425,000 less than similar waterfront homes that are dockeligible. Assessing the value of lake property can be tricky, with variables including location, view, water depth, area-specific restrictions, and shoreline enhancements. You’ll find that an experienced Realtor’s familiarity with the area and knowledge of lake property will ensure the best outcome in your sale or purchase. Drew Choate and The Lake Wylie Man team are affiliated with Keller Williams Fort Mill. The Lake Wylie Man team has been the leader in Lake Wylie waterfront sales each year for over a decade. For more information on the market and recent sales, visit TheLakeWylieMan.com.

home or perhaps enjoying the cabin for a few years prior to building. Last year, 22 “river cabins” were sold for an average price approaching $800,000. The supply of such properties is dwindling, and only 7 sold through late October of 2025. Depending on the location and view, these properties are still in very high demand.

2026 Newcomers Guide

19


OUR COMMUNITIES

Clover's small-town charm is evident in its many gardens and family farms. (Photo/Jan Todd)

CLOVER

A

town with the motto, “The Town with LOVE in the Middle.” must certainly offer its fair share of Southern hospitality and charm. Locally owned shops and home-style restaurants line its Main Street, and a steady population growth has mixed newcomers with residents whose families have lived in the area for generations. The town of Clover began as a railroad stop in the late 1800s, midway between Yorkville (now York) and Gastonia, N.C. According to

NUMBERS YOU NEED

Living On Lake Wylie

parade show off local pride. The small-town quality of life is highly valued and preserved. Clover has two public parks and an active community center. The parks and recreation department offers a variety of sports programs for youths and adults, along with special community events such as movies in the park and holiday events. Providing top-notch cultural entertainment to Clover and the surrounding communities, the 1,500-seat Clover School District Auditorium has hosted nationally acclaimed

All phone numbers are 803 area code, except where noted

Town of Clover.................................... 222-9495 116 Bethel Street, Clover, SC 29710 www.cloversc.org Clover Police Department................222-9494 Water/sewer ........................................ 222-9495

20

local folklore, water spilling over from the train station’s water tank caused a patch of clover to grow, and people began referring to the area as “Clover Patch.” The name stuck, and the community grew to a town sustained primarily by its textile industry. Its population is now estimated at just over 6,000 people. Parades and festivals, such as the annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival, the Barbecue CookOff held each spring, the Fall Festival and Auto Show, the Clover Highland Games and ScotsIrish Festival in November, and the Christmas

Duke Energy ............... 800-769-3766 York Electric Co-op...........684-4248 Trash and recycling ............222-7700 Comporium.................................888-403-2667 Clover School District..........810-8000


The small-town quality of life is highly valued and preserved.

Curtin Farms demonstration. (Photo/Jan Todd)

musicians, theater, comedians and performing artists. Clover High School is home to an award-winning band program, one of the most successful in the state, and the multiyear state championship choir, The Choraliers. Their concerts are attended by the entire community and always play to a full house. The Clover School District, one of the top systems in the state, serves Clover as well as students in the unincorporated Lake Wylie, Allison Creek, Bethel, Bethany and Bowling Green communities. A bond referendum passed in 2022 will fund the building of a second high school on Daimler Road to ease overcrowding at Clover High. Though several new housing developments have sprung up around Clover, much of the area surrounding the town is still pristine farmland, home to peach orchards, beef and dairy farms, poultry producers and small family farms. Some of these farms have developed into agritourism destinations, such as Curtin Farms, “The Cabin” at Rock Ridge Farm, and Sanders Peach Farm. Just a few miles from the bustling activity of Charlotte and Lake Wylie, residents and visitors can experience a true taste of country living in Clover.

ML Ford & Sons Inc. furniture store is the oldest business in Clover. (Photo/Susan Bromfield)

A train mural adorns a building wall in downtown Clover. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

2026 Newcomers Guide

21


OUR COMMUNITIES Sunset on Lake Wylie at York. (Photo/Jan Todd)

YORK

Y

ork is the county seat of York County. The first European settlers arrived in the early 1750s, migrating south from Pennsylvania. Yorkville, later known as York, was named the county seat in 1785. This “White Rose City,” a moniker representing the symbol of England’s House of York, has over 180 landmarks that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Steeped in its rich history, York has sometimes been called the “Charleston of the Upcountry.” Downtown York is known for its exceptional architecture, its quaint shops offering everything from antiques to gift shops to original art, and its nostalgic Sylvia Theater, a 100-plus-year-old venue that offers music,

NUMBERS YOU NEED

movies and other performances. The York County Courthouse and other governmental offices are located downtown, surrounded by law offices. Downtown restaurants and cafes do a bustling lunchtime business, serving the government clientele, locals and tourists. Nearby, The Garden Cafe has been a dining destination for years, and serves as a wedding and special event venue. The city of York has a population of just over 8,600 people. Family roots run deep, and the Southern charm of this quiet town is renowned. The fourth Saturday of each August, the town is anything but quiet as crowds in excess of 40,000 attend the annual Summerfest in downtown York. Named a Top

All phone numbers are 803 area code, except where noted

City of York........................................... 684-2341 10 N. Roosevelt St.,York, SC 29745 yorksc.gov Water and sewer ................................ 684-2341 Duke Energy ......................................... 800-769-3766

22

Living On Lake Wylie

20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society, this end-of-summer celebration brings in vendors and festival food trucks from surrounding states, a classic car show, music and other festivities. Visitors and locals also look forward to the annual Yorkville Historical Society’s “Christmas in Olde York,” featuring a tour of historical homes and sites. This holiday highlight is yet another one of York’s opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle of modern day life and remember the ways of yesteryear. York’s McCelvey Center is a grand historical building in downtown that hosts a performing arts series each year. The Center

York Electric Co-op............................ 684-4248 Trash and recycling ............................. 684-7172 York County Economic Development............802-4300 Comporium.................................888-403-2667 York School District.............................. 684-9916


Downtown York is known for its exceptional architecture, its quaint shops ... and its nostalgic Sylvia Theatre.

The Garden Cafe in York is a popular dining and event venue site. (Photo/Jan Todd) Bush-N-Vine strawberries. (Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

The Sylvia Theatre in downtown York. (Photo/ Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography

also provides a hall for wedding receptions, community activities and various social events. There is a large field behind the center for recreation, plus a number of other city parks with basketball courts, walking trails and playgrounds. The largest employer in York is Duke Energy’s Catawba Nuclear Station. Manufacturing and agriculture also contribute to the economy. Farms and produce markets, including Windy Hill Apple Farm, Bush-NVine, Black’s Peaches, and Penland Christmas Tree Farm are a few that call York their home. An annual Ag and Art Tour, blending agriculture and art, offers an opportunity to visit many local farms in York and surrounding counties and see the work of local artisans and craftspeople. Outside the city limits of York, the York postal code of 29745 stretches east to Lake Wylie, and contains the Allison Creek and Concord Road communities, which are designated in the Clover School District. This area of the lake is growing rapidly, with several new neighborhoods.

Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography

The Allison Creek Fishing Pier is a popular spot to wet a hook. (Photo/Jan Todd)

2026 Newcomers Guide

23


OUR COMMUNITIES The Palisades is one of the largest residential developments in Steele Creek. (Photo/Jan Todd)

STEELE CREEK, N.C.

T

his southwest corner of Mecklenburg County in North Carolina is one of the fastestgrowing communities in Charlotte. Twenty-five years ago, this area was primarily rural farmland. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the widening of N.C./S.C. 49, the replacement of the Buster Boyd Bridge with a new fourlane span into South Carolina, and the development of retail and commercial spaces has transformed Steele Creek. The Steele Creek community began in the late 17th century with ScotsIrish settlers. A large portion of the township was eventually annexed by the

NUMBERS YOU NEED

City of Charlotte. The rapidly growing community, south of Interstate 485 and west of I-77, has a population estimate of over 12,000 people in the Censusdefined area of about 19 square miles. The 46 square miles that encompass all of the Steele Creek area have an estimated population of over 76,000. The Steele Creek Residents Association was formed in 1980 to help ensure quality development, monitor land use and zoning, and promote recreation and community. Retail centers, including RiverGate and Charlotte Premium Outlets, along with new medical centers and restaurants, have

All phone numbers are 704 area code, except where noted

Mecklenburg County .......................... Valerie Woodard Center, 3205 Freedom Drive, Charlotte, NC 28208 mecklenburgcountync.gov Creek Residents Assoc. ..................... P.O. Box 39396, Charlotte, NC 28278 info@steelecreek.com | steelecreekresidents.org

24

Living On Lake Wylie

sprung up. Large housing developments such as The Palisades, Chapel Cove and Berewick are some of the hottest real estate markets in Charlotte. New apartment complexes are plentiful, and Steele Creek offers the two largest waterfront condominium neighborhoods on the lake. Thanks to the McDowell Nature Preserve and The Sanctuary, the Steele Creek portion of Lake Wylie has large areas of preserved natural shorelines. McDowell Nature Preserve is a 1,132-acre public park with hiking trails, a Nature Center, fishing docks, picnic shelters and a campground. The 20-acre Copperhead Island is part of the preserve, offering public boat ramps

Duke Energy ......................................... 800-769-3766 Mecklenburg School District................980-343-6270


Thanks to the McDowell Nature Preserve and The Sanctuary, the Steele Creek portion of Lake Wylie has large areas of preserved natural shorelines.

Red Fez Shrine Club. (Photo/Jan Todd)

and guided kayaking tours. The Sanctuary is a 1,350-acre luxury nature reserve community with seven miles of mostly undisturbed shoreline. Several clubs offer recreation and lakefront amenities in the area. The Red Fez Shrine Club, close to the Buster Boyd Bridge, hosts many special events. Near the end of Youngblood Road, the Catawba Yacht Club provides sailing and rowing programs for members and guests. Off Shopton Road, Long Cove Resort on Lake Wylie has been recently refurbished and features tiny-house “glamping” accommodations. With a private beach, pool, picnic facilities and boat slips, the public is offered seasonal memberships or day passes. A little farther north, the Charlotte Yacht Club welcomes new members and offers boat slips, fishing docks, picnic and camping areas, and a private boat ramp. Steele Creek has long been one of Charlotte’s hidden gems, with its proximity to the Charlotte Douglas International Airport and uptown Charlotte, and its opportunities to enjoy life on Lake Wylie.

The Catawba Yacht Club on Lake Wylie near Steele Creek provides dock space and programs for rowing and sailing. (Photo/Jan Todd)

Evening entertainment on the beach at Long Cove Resort. (Photo/Jan Todd)

2026 Newcomers Guide

25


OUR COMMUNITIES The Carolina Show Ski Team is based in Tega Cay. (Photo/Jan Todd)

TEGA CAY

T

ega Cay, which means “beautiful peninsula” in Polynesian, is a planned city that began in the mid-1970s. It started with 2.5 square miles, and has since grown in size to 3.2 square miles by annexing adjacent property to include some retail space and additional residential neighborhoods. Approximately 12,000 people reside in the city of Tega Cay, and it is one of the fastest-growing cities in South Carolina. The earliest development in Tega Cay carried a strong Polynesian theme in the style of houses and even the names

NUMBERS YOU NEED

of the streets. Bora Bora Drive, Molokai Drive, Tana Tea Circle, Pago Pago Drive, and Mai Kai Way are just a few of the exotic addresses that people call home. Later development transitioned to more traditional homes, including mid-priced neighborhoods as well as luxury homes. Growth in Tega Cay has been carefully planned, with a focus on creating “villagestyle” neighborhoods and mixing in commercial development and amenities to support the residents. Tega Cay offers resort-type amenities, including a multitude of parks and playgrounds, miles

All phone numbers are 803 area code, except where noted

City of Tega Cay ................................... 548-3512 7725 Tega Cay Drive, Tega Cay, SC 29708 tegacaysc.org Utilities .................................................. 548-3514 Duke Energy ......................................... 800-769-3766 York Electric Co-op............................ 684-4248

26

Living On Lake Wylie

of walking trails, a 27-hole golf course and country club, beaches, swimming pools and marinas. Athletic fields provide a place for the 4,500 participants each year in sports programs for all ages, managed by Tega Cay’s Parks and Recreation Department. Music in the park, land and boat parades, food truck rallies, holiday parties and festivals sponsored by the city build community spirit and provide residents entertainment and opportunities to get to know their neighbors. Tega Cay has 13 miles of shoreline

Trash and recycling ............................. 548-4108 York County Economic Development......802-4300 Fort Mill School District........................... 548-2527 Comporium..............................................888-403-2667


Tega Cay offers resort-type amenities, including a multitude of parks and playgrounds.

Fourth of July Celebration. (Photo/Jan Todd)

Tega Cay's Windjammer Park includes a lakefront playground. (Photo/Jan Todd)

along Lake Wylie, and water activities often take center stage. The Carolina Show Ski Team practices and performs at Tega Cay’s Windjammer Park, with shows several times a month during the summer. Independence Day is celebrated each July with parades, a Canoe Joust, ski show, a fish fry and fireworks. Several waterfront parks and beaches provide public access to the lake for residents. The Tega Cay Marina serves boaters on the southern end of Lake Wylie, with a fuel dock, lakeside convenience store, boat rentals and dock slips. Students residing in Tega Cay attend schools in the Fort Mill School District, one of the highest ranked in the state. Less than 20 miles from uptown Charlotte, many residents commute to work in the city, while others stay closer to home and work in Fort Mill, Rock Hill or Pineville, N.C.

A gazebo in Tega Cay offers a nice water view on Lake Wylie. (Photo/Jan Todd)

2026 Newcomers Guide

27


OUR COMMUNITIES

FORT MILL

O

ne of the fastest-growing areas of the state, Fort Mill is located along the Interstate 77 corridor in the northern tip of South Carolina. Some refer to the town as a “suburb of Charlotte,” but truth is, Fort Mill has a distinct identity of its own. The town was incorporated in 1873, and was named for two nearby points, a colonial-era British “fort” and a grist “mill” that operated on Steele Creek. Early growth of Fort Mill can be attributed to textile manufacturing, driven by a company that became Springs Industries. While the corporate

NUMBERS YOU NEED

headquarters moved outside the U.S. in 2006, the company’s contributions are still very evident in the town. The Anne Springs Close Greenway is the crown jewel of Fort Mill, a 2,100-acre recreational park with 40 miles of hiking and biking trails, lakes and ponds for kayaking or canoeing, horseback riding stables, and venues for corporate and private events. Fort Mill’s historic downtown is a charming trip to the past, with several of the buildings dating back to the late 1800s. The Fort Mill History Museum is a wonderful place to learn about

Living On Lake Wylie

the early years from the time of the Catawba Indians up through more recent history. The museum offers a Historical Home Tour in December, and a ghostly “Lanterns and Legends Tour” in September. In the spring, the weeklong Strawberry Festival draws 50,000 people to witness Fort Mill’s pride. In addition to its rich history, Fort Mill has a vibrant future. The Fort Mill School District has earned the reputation as one of the top systems in the state, well above national standards. Business is thriving. Of the top 25 employers in York County, Fort Mill is home to 16 of

All phone numbers are 803 area code, except where noted

Town of Fort Mill ................................ 547-2034 200 Tom Hall St., Fort Mill, SC 29715 fortmillsc.gov Water/sewer ........................................ 547-2034 ext. 1172 Duke Energy ......................................... 800-769-3766 York Electric Co-op............................ 684-4248

28

A mural in historic Fort Mill. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

Trash and recycling ............................. 547-7158 York County Economic Development......802-4300 Fort Mill School District........................... 548-2527 Comporium.................................888-403-2667


With the growing population and business expansions, Fort Mill's retail, restaurant and housing industries are thriving.

Anne Springs Close Greenway. (Photo/Kim McManus)

Downtown Fort Mill is home to a variety of shops and restaurants. (Photo/Kim McManus)

these companies, including the top two employers, LPL Financial and Wells Fargo Home Mortgage; distribution centers for Ross Stores, US Foods, Inc., and Stanley Black & Decker; manufacturing facilities for Schaeffler Group USA and Shutterfly; and corporate offices and facilities for several other major companies. With the growing population and business expansions, Fort Mill’s retail, restaurant and housing industries are thriving. For recreation enthusiasts, Fort Mill offers several golf courses, athletic clubs and close proximity to Lake Wylie for boating and water sports. A portion of Carowinds amusement park is located in Fort Mill, drawing visitors from all over the Carolinas and beyond. Approximately 25,000 people live inside Fort Mill’s town limits, and 50,000 reside in the Fort Mill Township, which includes Tega Cay and unincorporated communities in eastern York County and northern Lancaster County, which share ZIP codes with Fort Mill.

Confederate Park provides green space in downtown Fort Mill. (Photo/Kim McManus)

2026 Newcomers Guide

29


OUR COMMUNITIES Belmont is home to the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. The Orchid Conservatory is one of many facilities there highlighting the beauty of nature. (Photo/Jan Todd)

BELMONT, N.C. CITY NAME

A

small-town atmosphere, loaded with Southern charm, makes Belmont a wonderful place to visit or live. Historical homes, streetlamps, restaurants and quaint shops line the downtown area, and Stowe Park in the center of town hosts a multitude of festivals, music and movies in the park, and a shady place for kids to play. Belmont is part of North Carolina’s Main Street Program, with downtown revitalization projects that have breathed new life into the economic development. Once a town sustained by the textile industry, Belmont now thrives on tourism, recreation, education and retail.

NUMBERS YOU NEED

Many residents commute to nearby Charlotte or Gastonia for employment opportunities. Belmont is very close to the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, and proximity to Interstate 85 provides an easy commute to the city. Outside of downtown, Belmont stretches out to residential areas along Lake Wylie. Gated neighborhoods such as Misty Waters, Woodland Bay and Reflection Pointe have attracted residents in recent years. McLean, a waterfront community now being developed along five miles of Lake Wylie’s shoreline, offers several neighborhoods and parks, with wooded trails surrounding the historic

All phone numbers are 704 803 area code, except where noted

City of Belmont ................................... 825-5586 City Hall, 115 N. Main St., P.O. Box 431, Water Services: 115 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 cityofbelmont.org Duke Energy ......................................... 800-777-9898

30

Living On Lake Wylie

Daniel Stowe homestead. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, situated on 380 acres along the banks of Lake Wylie, is the crown jewel of Belmont. Its Orchid Conservatory, Lost Hollow Children’s Garden, awe-inspiring water features, everchanging exhibits and holiday celebrations provide an unforgettable experience for locals and tourists. Continuing education classes in horticulture, photography, art and health are offered throughout the year for all age groups. A growing network of trails, including the Carolina Thread Trail, links hikers and bikers to the botanical garden, the lake, historic homes and neighborhoods. The

Trash and recycling: Waste Pro,185 Manor Rd. SW, Concord, NC 28025........................... 792-0800 Gaston County School District ........ 866-6100


quiet coves and less congested channels of Lake Wylie in the Belmont area are perfect for rowing, paddling and water sports. The Belmont Rowing Center, on the northernmost part of Lake Wylie, offers summer youth camps as well as master rowing programs and regattas. Harbortowne Marina, accessed by land through the Harbortowne neighborhood, provides boat storage, a marine store, boat service and repair, picnic areas and boat ramp. McLean is planning to add a second marina and restaurant, Seven Oaks Marina, beside the New Hope Road Bridge. Belmont schools are highly ranked, and are part of the Gaston County School District. Belmont Abbey College, a small, liberal arts institution, was named to the list of Top 10 Best Regional Colleges in the South by U.S. News & World Report. As the greater Charlotte area continues to grow, Belmont’s outlook for growth is extremely positive, as a place where people can escape some of the hustle and bustle of the big city and truly enjoy the natural resources of the area.

Downtown Belmont is a blend of Southern charm and small-town appeal. (Photo/Jan Todd)

Goat Island across from Ebenezer Park in Rock Hill. (Photo/Jan Todd)

ROCK HILL

T

he largest city in York County, Rock Hill occupies an 11-mile stretch on Lake Wylie with shoreline from the end of Little Allison Creek, next to the sandbar, to the dam that joins the Rock Hill and Fort Mill sections of the lake. Properties on this portion of Lake Wylie include “river cabins” from days gone by, large luxury homes, and everything in between. The

Lake Club in Rock Hill, with a marina and a waterfront townhome and condo community, is located on the main channel of Lake Wylie. Piedmont Medical Center, located in Rock Hill, provides health care to residents throughout the county and is the largest employer in Rock Hill. The second largest employer is Comporium, providing internet, TV services, landline

and wireless phone and home security services to many residents in York County and surrounding areas. Rock HIll’s social scene has undergone a revitalization in recent years, with concerts and art expos in Old Town. Festivals such as the 10day “Come-See-Me” springtime event and four-day Christmasville during the holidays are popular among locals and tourists. York County’s Ebenezer Park, located on the Rock Hill portion of Lake Wylie, offers public access to the lake with campsites, a boat ramp, swimming with seasonal lifeguards and picnic areas.

EVENT XXX

The Lake Club in Rock Hill has marina space and access to Lake Wylie. (Photo/Jan Todd)

2026 Newcomers Guide

31


AROUND THE AREA Lake Wylie and the communities along its shores offer a lifestyle that is close to nature while still within easy reach of all the modern amenities of a major city. (Photos/Jan Todd)

32

Living On Lake Wylie


The Wood sto many rides ck Whirlebird is ju st one of th at nearby e Carowind s.

Ju

n on the lake.

y for celebratio

ways a big da ly Fourth is al

lebrations are d community ce

an Street festivals area. the Lake Wylie

Daniel Stowe Bo tanical Gardens in Belmont is alive with colo r and natural beau ty.

held throughout

the year in

pular annual

event.

2022 Newcomers Guide 2026

33

boat The Christmas

parade is a po


EDUCATION Clover High School and the Clover School District consistently rank among the best in South Carolina. (Photo/Kim McManus)

Clover School District strives for excellence with all students

C

lover School District is one of South Carolina’s highest-performing districts and offers students a wide array of academic and extracurricular offerings. Clover students perform in the top third on every state assessment from third grade through high school. The percentage of CSD students who are proficient on state assessments exceeds the state percentage from between 7.5% and 25.9%, depending on the assessment and grade level. Clover High School’s graduates demonstrate a commitment to the South Carolina Profile of a Graduate. Ninetyfour percent of CHS students graduate on time. More than 87 percent of them are deemed “College and Career Ready” by their performance on state assessments. The Applied Technology Center is one of

the state’s top sites for Career and Technical Education. Students have an opportunity to select from 19 career pathways to explore their interests. Pathways cover everything from diesel engine technology, fire and emergency services, engineering, to cybersecurity. CHS also boasts other outstanding programs, including the nation’s largest and most-awarded Air Force Junior ROTC program, which recently earned a perfect score in its Air Force unit evaluation. The Pride of Clover Marching Band appeared in Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in March 2024, and they will appear in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, in January 2026. The CHS Drumline is among the best in the world, taking high honors over the last three years. For 30 years, the

CHS Choraliers have been the highest scoring choral program in the statE. In November 2022, Clover voters approved a $156 million bond referendum to construct Lake Wylie High School. Construction is underway on the facility located off Cannonball Run. LWHS is expected to open in fall 2026, along with a new elementary school under construction next to the new high school. An existing building is receiving renovations to become the district’s third middle school. The current ninth grade campus will become Roosevelt Middle School in fall 2026. An Arts Wing is being added to the facility to support arts programming as the new middle school is launched. For more information on the Clover School District and individual schools, visit the Clover School district website at clover.k12.sc.us.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Clover School District

Clover High School 1625 Highway 55 E. | 803-810-8200 clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/16

Kinard Elementary School 201 Pressley St. | 803-810-8700 clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/12

604 Bethel St., Clover, SC 29710 P: 803-810-8000 | F: 803-222-8010 clover.k12.sc.us Superintendent: Dr. Sheila Quinn

9th Grade Campus - Clover High School 1555 Highway 55 E. | 803-810-8200 clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/2637

Lake Wylie High School 1464 Cannonball Run | 803-810-8000 York, SC 29746 clover.k12.sc.us/o/lwhs

Bethany Elementary School 337 M. Grayson Road | 803-810-8800 clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/8

Clover Middle School 1233 Soaring Eagles Road | 803-810-8300 clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/14

Larne Elementary School 3598 Filbert Hwy. | 803-810-8600 clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/13

Bethel Elementary School 6000 Highway 55 E. | 803-631-8300 clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/9

Crowders Creek Elementary School 5515 Charlotte Hwy. | 803-810-8500 clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/10

Blue Eagle Academy (Magnet) 300 Clinton Ave. | 803-810-8420 clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/17

Griggs Road Elementary School 100 Griggs Road | 803-631-8200 clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/11

Liberty Hill Elementary School 1428 Cannonball Run | 803-810-8000 York, SC 29745 clover.k12.sc.us/o/lhe

34

Living On Lake Wylie

Oakridge Elementary School 5670 Oakridge Road | 803-631-8400


clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/2435 Oakridge Middle School 5657 Oakridge Road | 803-631-8000 clover.k12.sc.us/Domain/15 Roosevelt Middle School 1555 Highway 55 East | 803-631-8500 Clover, SC 29710 clover.k12.sc.us/o/rms

River Gate Elementary School 15340 Smith Road, Charlotte, NC 28273 980-344-1000 schools.cms.k12.nc.us/rivergateES

Belmont, NC 28012 704-836-9612 gaston.k12.nc.us/spoint

Steele Creek Elementary School 4100 Gallant Lane, Charlotte, NC 28273 980-343-3810 schools.cms.k12.nc.us/steelecreekES

PRIVATE/CHARTER SCHOOLS

Fort Mill School District

Winget Park Elementary School 12235 Winget Road, Charlotte, NC 28278 980-343-1063 schools.cms.k12.nc.us/wingetparkES

2233 Deerfield Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29715 P: 803 548-2527 | F: 803 547-4696 www.fortmillschools.org Superintendent: Chuck Epps

Palisades High School 15221 York Road, Charlotte, NC 28278 980-343-0878 cmsk12.org/palisadesHS

Pleasant Knoll Elementary School 2346 Pleasant Road, Fort Mill, SC 29708 803-835-0090 pkes.fortmillschools.org Gold Hill Elementary School 1000 Dave Gibson Blvd, Tega Cay, SC 29708 803-548-8250 ghes.fortmillschools.org Gold Hill Middle School 1025 Dave Gibson Blvd, Tega Cay, SC 29708 803-548-8300 ghms.fortmillschools.org Catawba Ridge High School 1180 Fort Mill Parkway, Fort Mill, SC 29715 803-835-5222 crhs.fortmillschools.org Fort Mill High School 215 N. U.S. 21 Bypass, Fort Mill, SC 29715 803-548-1900 fmhs.fortmillschools.org

Charlotte–Mecklenburg Schools 600 E. Fourth St., Charlotte, N.C. 28202 980-343-3000 www.cms.k12.nc.us Superintendent: Hugh Hattabaugh Berewick Elementary School 5910 Dixie River Road, Charlotte, NC 28278 980-344-1010 schools.cms.k12.nc.us/berewickES

Gaston County Schools 943 Osceola St. Gastonia, NC 28054 704-866-6100 | gaston.k12.nc.us Superintendent: W. Jeffrey Booker Belmont Central Elementary School 310 Eagle Road Belmont, NC 28012 704-836-9137 gaston.k12.nc.us/belmontcentral Catawba Heights Elementary School 101 Ivey St., Belmont, NC 28012 704-836-9119 gaston.k12.nc.us/cheights New Hope Elementary School 137 Stowe Road, Gastonia, NC 28056 704-836-9112 gaston.k12.nc.us/newhope North Belmont Elementary School 210 School St., Belmont, NC 28012 704-836-9135 gaston.k12.nc.us/nbelmont Page Primary School 215 Ewing Drive, Belmont, NC 28012 704-836-9116 gaston.k12.nc.us/page Belmont Middle School 110 Central Ave., Belmont, NC 28012 704-836-9611 gaston.k12.nc.us/belmontmiddle

Elementary School 13620 Erwin Road, Charlotte, NC 28273 980-343-3680 schools.cms.k12.nc.us/lakewylieES

Forestview High School 5545 Union Road, Gastonia, NC 28056 704-861-2625 gaston.k12.nc.us/forestview

Palisades Park Elementary School 15321 York Road, Charlotte, NC 28278 980-343-9895 schools.cms.k12.nc.us/palisadesparkES

South Point High School 906 South Point Road,

Gaston Day School 2001 Gaston Day School Road, Gastonia, NC 28056 704-864-7744 | gastonday.org Lake Pointe Academy 3168 Hands Mill Hwy., York, SC 29745 803-631-5253 lakepointeacademy.com Palisades Episcopal 13120 Grand Palisades Pkwy., Charlotte, NC 28278 704-583-1825 | pescharlotte.org Riverwalk Academy 5750 Mt. Gallant Rd., Rock Hill, SC 29732 803-327-8400 | riverwalkacademy.com Walnut Grove Christian 1036 Maxwell Mill Rd., Fort Mill, SC 29708 803-835-2000 walnutgrovechristianschool.com

HIGHER EDUCATION Belmont Abbey College 100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Road, Belmont, NC 28012 704-461-6700 Type: Private 4 Year Enrollment: 1,523 | Tuition: $18,500 belmontabbeycollege.edu Winthrop University 701 Oakland Ave., Rock Hill, SC 29733 803-323-2211 School Type: Public 4 Year Degrees Offered: Undergrad/Graduate Enrollment: 6,109 | Tuition: $15,220 winthrop.edu Clinton College 1029 Crawford Road, Rock Hill, SC 29730 803-327-7402 School Type: Private 2 Year, Undergrad Enrollment: 200 | Tuition: $7,949 clintoncollege.edu York Technical College 452 S. Anderson Road., Rock Hill, SC 29730 803-327-8000 Type: Public 2-year, Undergrad Enrollment: 4,604 | Tuition: $4,817 yorktech.edu

2026 Newcomers Guide

35


HEALTH CARE & EMERGENCY SERVICES

L

Health care and wellness options plentiful at Lake Wylie

ake Wylie’s location across three counties in two states means there is a variety of medical and wellness options within a few miles of the Buster Boyd Bridge. It can also mean some complicated choices when it comes to making sure you have adequate health care insurance coverage. At Lake Wylie, on the South Carolina side, CaroMont Family Medicine and a new CaroMount urgent care center are at Village Harbor on Charlotte Highway (Highway 49). CaroMont also has a new medical facility on Nautical Lane that opened in fall 2023. Lake Wylie is home to chiropractors, orthodontists, eye care professionals, dentists, a pediatric dentist, acupuncturist, massage and physical therapy offices.

YOUR

Across the lake on the North Carolina side of the Buster Boyd Bridge is the Steele Creek area with many more options. Atrium Health in Steele Creek, the area’s first health care pavilion, offers 24-hour emergency department; advanced diagnostic imaging (CT scan, ultrasound, X-ray); laboratory services; retail pharmacy; internal medicine specialists; pediatric specialists and women’s health specialists. It is located at 13640 Steelecroft Parkway. For general information, call 704-512-5500 or visit www.cmc.steelecreek.org. Across the street, Steelecreek Parkway houses medical specialist offices. CVS locations in Steele Creek and at Lake Wylie have minute clinics. Full-service hospitals are in several

locations near Lake Wylie. Atrium Health hospital and emergency facilities are located minutes away in Charlotte, Caromont Health Hospital is a few minutes away in Gastonia and Piedmont Medical Hospital and emergency is also minutes away in Rock Hill. Upon moving to Lake Wylie, newcomers should check with their health insurance company to determine which health care network providers are within their insurer’s network. Lake Wylie – River Hills EMS is a local nonprofit paramedic ambulance service that has served the Lake Wylie area since 1980. Its facility is located on Heritage Drive at the entrance of River Hills and primary service area covers about 25 miles from the Buster Boyd Bridge in all directions. For emergencies call 911.

Hometown PHARMACY

Fast & Friendly Service Free Prescription Delivery Medical Equipment Rentals Immunizations Scan to learn more about

Lake Wylie Pharmacy. 221 Latitude Ln, Suite 109 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803)-831-2044 LakeWylieRx.com 36

Living On Lake Wylie

Serving the Lake Wylie community since 1990!

LAKE WYLIE PHARMACY (803)-831-2044


The right care for your family. Now right around the corner. CaroMont Health has opened a new facility on Nautical Lane in Lake Wylie. (Photo/Provided)

MEDICAL FACILITIES

• New Patients Welcome

Atrium Health - Levine Children’s Hospital

• Platinum Invisilign Provider

CaroMont Women’s Health 704.865.7416

One convenient location. Three expert Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Ctr. • Complete General and medical teams care 1000 Blythe Blvd., Charlotte, NCoffering personalized Cosmetic Dentistry 704-355-2000; atriumhealth.org for your entire family. To schedule an • Emergency Patient appointment, visit caromonthealth.org. Same Day Pain Relief 1000 Blythe Blvd., Charlotte, NC 704-381-2000

Atrium Health Pineville

CaroMont Family Medicine 803.631.2858

• Restorative/Preventative • Periodontics

10628 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 704-667-1000; atriumhealth.org

• We Treat Children

Atrium Health – Steele Creek

• Whitening

CaroMont Pediatric Partners 803.831.2796

• Implants

13640 Steelecroft Pkwy., Charlotte, NC 704-512-5500; atriumhealth.org

519 Nautical Drive in Clover

Atrium Health Urgent Care

1656 Riverchase Blvd., Suite 1800 Rock Hill 803-909-1850

Carolinas HealthCare - Urgent Care 704 Gold Hill Road, Suite 1200 Fort Mill 803-835-0430

Dr. Chad Vanourny

Dr. Britany Baker

Carolinas Rehabilitation – Mount Holly 275 Beatty Drive, Belmont, NC 704-822-2550

2026 Newcomers Guide

37


MEDICAL FACILITIES CaroMont Family Medicine

1200 Village Harbor Drive, Lake Wylie 803-631-2858

CaroMont Regional Medical Center 2525 Court Drive, Gastonia, NC 704-834-2000; caromont.org

CaroMont Health Family Medicine - Lake Wylie 519 Nautical Lane, Lake Wylie 803-631-2858

CaroMont Urgent Care

Gold Hill Emergency Department 995 Gold Hill Rd, Fort Mill 803-802-0995

Novant Health Charlotte Orthopedic Hospital

1901 Randolph Road, Charlotte, NC 704-316-2000; novanthealth.org

Novant Health Matthews Medical Center

1500 Township Pkwy., Matthews, NC 704-384-6500; novanthealth.org

Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center

1201 Village Harbor Drive, Lake Wylie 803-831-6859

200 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 704-384-4000; novanthealth.org

Doctors Care

Novant Urgent Care Steele Creek 13129 S. Tryon St, Ste. 120, Charlotte, NC 980-337-4662; novanthealth.org

2174 Cherry Road, Rock Hill 803-325-8280

First Care Medical Clinic

1462 Constitution Blvd, Rock Hill 803-909-4040

Piedmont Medical Center Fort Mill 1000 Wellness Way, Fort Mill 803-802-3662

Serving the Clover School District area, CAAC provides essential support for those in need. Our services include a FullChoice Food Pantry, financial assistance, financial literacy classes, and connections to local social service agencies. Together, we’re building a stronger, more supportive community.

Piedmont Medical Center

222 S. Herlong Ave., Rock Hill 803-329-1234; piedmontmedicalcenter. com

Piedmont Urgent Care Center at Baxter Village

502 Sixth Baxter Crossing, Fort Mill 803-396-8100

Piedmont West Urgent Care Center 1190 Filbert Highway, Suite 110 York 803-628-0004

Riverview Medical Center & Urgent Care 1393 Celanese Road Rock Hill 803-329-3103

The Imaging Center at Baxter Village 509 Sixth Baxter Crossing, Fort Mill 803-802-4949 Women's Diagnostic Center 218 Herlong Ave, Rock Hill 803-3272828

To make a donation, volunteer or find out how to get help, call or visit: www.cloverareaassistance.org 803.222.4837 1130 Hwy 55 E, Clover, SC 29710 Hours Monday & Wednesday- 9-4 Thursday- 9-3 Services are by appointment only

38

Living On Lake Wylie


HEALTH CARE & EMERGENCY SERVICES

Your Ambulance Service R iver Hills/Lake Wylie EMS is your local, nonprofit paramedic ambulance service that has served the Lake Wylie area since 1980.

Squad Facts

• Serving Bethel/Lake Wylie area since 1980. Current staff is about 50, most of which are volunteers. • Only 911 service in York County to offer no-charge service and transport for amount not covered by insurance. • Provides 24/7 paramedic care and transport to residents and visitors in the greater Lake Wylie area.

Lake Wylie is centrally located within an area served by a Level 1 trauma center, primary chest pain centers, comprehensive stroke centers and pediatric specialty centers. It is also a short distance from an ER affiliated with a major hospital organization that can handle nonemergency patients as well as stabilize critical patients before transporting them to the appropriate hospital. Our primary service area is about 25 square miles going from the Buster Boyd Bridge to Ridge Road south to the Allison Creek bridge and north to the North Carolina border. Since January 2014, we have become one of three York County-contracted 911 services, which means we are now being called into a larger response area. Our facility on Heritage Drive by the entrance to River Hills Plantation houses our ambulances, office, training facility and bedrooms for the crew. Our paramedic ambulance is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During the day, we may be located somewhere other than our building for better response times to the community. We exist thanks to the support of our community through volunteers and donations supplemented with money supplied by insurance companies for those patients having insurance. Anyone not having insurance is transported free of charge and we do not collect the co-pay if the patient is a resident of York County. To donate, mail checks to 152 Heritage Drive, Lake Wylie, S.C. 29710 or online at rhems.org. Email us at rhes@comporium.net or call 803-831-9888.

• First-class service and state-of-the-art equipment, thanks to community donations. Donations are essential and volunteers are always welcome. • Our volume is now ranging between 100 and 150 calls per month. – Richard Mann, Director, River Hills/Lake Wylie EMS

Now providing specialized dental services for infants, adolescents and those with special healthcare needs.

Dr. Ryan Colosi

(803) 619-5155 | www.LakeWyliePediatricDentistry.com 2026 Newcomers Guide

39


LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES York County Sheriff’s Office Moss Justice Center, 1675-2A York Highway, York, SC 29745 803-628-3059 yorkcountysherriff.com

Gaston County Sheriff’s Office 425 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Gastonia, NC 28052 704-869-6800 gastoncountysherriffoffice.com

Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Dept. 700 E. Fourth St., Charlotte, NC 28202 704-336-8100 mecksherriff.com

Belmont Police Department 201 Chronicle St., Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-3792 cityofbelmont.org/departments/ police/

Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Dept. Steele Creek Division, 2227 Westinghouse Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28273 704-336-7800 charlottenc.gov/cmpd/Home

Gaston County Police Department 420 W. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia, NC 28053-1578 704-866-3300 gastongov.com

Tega Cay Police Department 7705 Tega Cay Drive, Tega Cay, SC 29708 803-548-0340 tegacaysc.org/187/Police

Clover Police Department 112 Bethel St. Clover, SC 29710 803-222-9494 cloversc.org

WORLD-CLASS TECHNOLOGY, FROM RIGHT DOWN THE ROAD. At Comporium, we take great pride in supplying our neighbors in York County with the technology they need to make life easier and more enjoyable. Whether it’s Gig Internet, Stream TV or Interactive Home Security, you don’t have to look far to find the cutting-edge technologies you want in your new Lake Wylie home.

888-403-2667 COMPORIUM.COM

40

Living On Lake Wylie


SPORTS & RECREATION The YMCA Aquatic Center in Lake Wylie features two indoor pools, an outdoor, 50-meter Olympic pool and exercise facilities. (Photo/Jan Todd)

Clover School District YMCA Aquatic Center

L

ake Wylie is home to the Clover School District Aquatic and Fitness Center, operated by the Upper Palmetto YMCA. The $17.8 million, 73,500-square-foot pool and fitness facility located near Crowders Creek Elementary School serves the CloverLake Wylie area. The facility is home to the Clover High School swim team, the YMCA’s Kicking with Confidence program for fourthgraders and an after-school care program. The facility has two indoor pools, a 50-meter Olympic-sized outdoor pool, and several rooms for weights and exercise space. There is a picnic shelter that can be reserved and rented for groups and parties, along with a walking

track, spin room, meeting room and a variety of classes offered. Thanks to community donations and $1 million from York County hospitality tax, funding for a $1.7 million outdoor water park was included. The gym space allows for activities like pickle ball, a sport for active senior adults, as well as for a mix of badminton, tennis and ping pong. Plus, there will be sports leagues for basketball, softball and soccer. This facility provides an opportunity for a variety of fitness and swimming activities and competitions. There is one entry and exit on Charlotte Highway for members, and a bus entry, with ample parking of about 250 spaces.

HOURS Monday – Friday 5 a.m.–9 p.m.

Saturday

7:30 a.m.–6 p.m.

Sunday 1–6 p.m.

ADDRESS & PHONE

5485 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-9622 2026 Newcomers Guide

41


Since 1935, Bank of York has served York County longer than any other community bank. We know how important it is to keep pace with the times and remain your community bank providing the best customer service. That’s why we offer:

Online & Mobile Banking with BillPay and Mobile Deposits, Online Account Opening, Loans for consumers, Loans for small businesses, and much more! For more information, visit bankofyork.com or call us at 803-831-8343.

42

Living On Lake Wylie


Lake Wylie living is simply grand – any time of the year!

Whether you’re cracking the sails in a crisp spring breeze ... Enjoying a summertime round of golf on a beautiful course like River Hills Country Club ... Wetting a line on a perfect fall afternoon … Or even taking a walk on a brisk winter day -- it doesn’t snow much around here, but when it does, it sure is beautiful -You can find so much to do at Lake Wylie, every day, all year long.

2026 Newcomers Guide

43


SPORTS & RECREATION RECREATION LEAGUES Lake Wylie Athletic Association

Recreational sports in Lake Wylie, offering weekly organized play and continued development for over 1,000 players each year. Kyle Crow, President: president@lwsports.org lwInfo@lwsports.org lwsports.org

Belmont Parks and Recreation Department

Belmont Parks and Rec offers youth and adult sports throughout the year. J. Paul Ford Center: 37 E. Woodrow Ave, Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-8191 cityofbelmont.org Brian McGonagle, Athletic Director: 704-901-2070 Alex Godette, Recreation Specialist: 704-901-2089

Field Day Park at Lake Wylie

L

ake Wylie's newest backyard, Field Day Park at Lake Wylie, is open to the public. Located in the Paddlers Cove neighborhood, the park has lighted baseball and multipurpose fields, a playground, walking trail, picnic shelter, dog park, basketball, tennis and pickleball courts. The complex can host a wide varierty of events. The scorer's tower, which houses restrooms and a concession stand, provides a 360-degree view of the 32acre complex. The community center can handle events of 70 people and more.

Town of Clover Parks & Recreation Department

Town of Clover Parks & Recreation Department offers a variety of youth and adult sports programs. 256 Community Park Drive Clover, SC 29710 803-222-9493 cloversc.org Joe Ross, Recreation Director: jross@cloversc.org

Steele Creek Athletics Assoc.

Living On Lake Wylie

Charlotte Tennis Association

CTA is affiliated with the USTA, the governing body for tennis in the United States. charlotte.usta.com

MINOR LEAGUES

SCAA is a volunteer-managed, nonprofit organization that is dedicated to youth team sports. 13530 Choate Circle, Charlotte, NC 28273 Randy Helms, President: r_helms59@hotmail.com scaasports.com

Charlotte Checkers

Tega Cay Parks and Recreation The Parks & Rec Department is home to over 4,500 participants year-round, offering youth and adult sports. 4220 Beach Club Lane, Tega Cay, SC 29708

Minor league baseball team, Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. The Knights play at BB&T Ballpark, 324 S. Mint St., Charlotte, NC 28202 704-274-8300 | charlotteknights.com

PRO LEAGUES

GOLF COURSES

Carolina Panthers

Fort Mill Golf Club 101 Country Club Drive, Fort Mill, SC 803-547-2044 playfortmill.com

Charlotte Hornets

The Palisades Country Club 13704 Grand Palisades Pkwy., Charlotte, NC 704-504-0099 thepalisadescc.com

Charlotte FC

River Hills Country Club One Country Club Drive, Lake Wylie SC, 29710 803-831-2126 riverhillscc.org

NFL. Bank of America Stadium 800 S. Mint St., Suite 675 Charlotte, NC 28202 panthers.com NBA. Time Warner Cable Arena 333 E. Trade St. Charlotte, NC 28202 nba.com/hornets MLS, Bank of America Stadium 704-593-4100 charlottefootballclub.com

Charlotte Independence

United Soccer League (USL) Queen City Soccer Club LLC 1523 Elizabeth Ave. Suite 120, Charlotte, NC 28204 704- 206-1515 charlotteindependence.com 44

803-548-3787 Joey Blethen, Director: jblethen@tegacaysc.gov tegacaysc.org/253/Parks-Recreation

East Coast Hockey League, 210 E. Trade St., Suite E480, Charlotte, NC 28202 The Checkers play at Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St., Charlotte, NC 28202. 704-342-4423 | gocheckers.com

Charlotte Knights

Tega Cay Golf Club 1 Molokai Drive, Tega Cay, SC 803-548-3500 tegacaygolfclub.com


ON THE LAKE Many lakefront businesses and marinas on Lake Wylie offer daily boat and kayak rentals. (Photo/Kim McManus)

WHERE TO RENT A BOAT

HOW TO CHECK LAKE LEVELS

Boat Clubs

CareFree Boat Club 704-557-0848 carefreeboats.com

www.duke-energy.com

Freedom Boat Club 704-943-4485 FreedomBoatClubLKW.com

NEED A TOW?

Boat Rentals

Sea Tow

Lake Wylie Boat Rentals 704-516-2674 lakewylieboatrental.com

www.seatow.com 704-895-8699

Marinas

Pier 88 River Hills Marina Gas Dock 803-831-0088 pier88yachtclub.com Tega Cay Marina 803-548-3715 tegacaymarina.com

Tow Boat U.S.-Lake Wylie Skiing is a popular activity on Lake Wylie. (Photo/Jan Todd)

www.towboatLKW.com 803-681-0911 2026 Newcomers Guide

45


ON THE LAKE

No boat? No problem

Y

ou might think you need a boat or other watercraft to really get the most out of Lake Wylie. But that’s not true. Boats, jet skis, canoes and kayaks are necessary for most on-the-water activities, but the lake offers plenty in the way of relaxation and recreation for those who stay on dry ground. Thankfully, there are lots of places to admire Lake Wylie, no boat required. Many natural areas along the shore are prime for lake gazing or bird watching with rustic wooden benches and picnic tables. For those looking for a bit more action, there are more than a few fishing spots along Lake Wylie banks and piers open to anyone with a fishing license.

McDowell Nature Preserve

This 1,115-acre park offers miles that hug the shore of Lake Wylie — with a number of picnic sites, fishing sites and a waterfront deck for lake gazing. Copperhead Island at McDowell Nature Preserve offers bank and pier fishing, trails and picnicking. Visitors may also reserve the picnic shelter for day use or rent the entire “island” for overnight group camping. 15222 York Road (Hwy. 49), Charlotte, N.C. Visit parkandrec.com or call 704-588-5224 for more information.

Ebenezer Park

This 26-acre park offers five picnic shelters, fishing and a public swimming beach. After Labor Day, park admission is free. For those wishing to “get away,” the park offers nearly 70 campsites along the lake shore. Park hours are daily from 6 a.m. until dusk. Visit yorkcountygov. com/ebenezer or call 803-366-6620 for more information. 4490 Boatshore Road, Rock Hill, S.C.

Allison Creek

A public pier on Allison Creek has been a favorite fishing spot for the community for many years. Cast a line or just admire

46

Living On Lake Wylie

McDowell Nature Preserve's waterfront deck. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

the expansive lake views.

Seven Oaks Preserve Trail

One of the most popular trails among the Carolina Thread Trail, this is the longest continuous trail along Lake Wylie. Located on land protected by the Catawba Lands Conservancy, the 2.8-mile trail also connects with additional trails at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, so stop by after your hike to learn more about native

and exotic botany. 6900 S. New Hope Road, Belmont, N.C.

South Point Park at River Hills

For River Hills residents and their guests, a waterfront park at South Point offers beautiful lake views. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere or take a dip in the beautiful lake.


Lake Wylie offers numerous access points for kayaks and canoes. (Photo/Jan Todd)

Allison Creek picnic area. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

We warmly invite you to join our church community. Our friendly and caring congregation is dedicated to the teachings of Christ and to serving others with kindness and compassion.

Currently meeting for services on Sundays at 4 pm at Redeeming Grace PCA Church at 4800 Charlotte Hwy., Lake Wylie SC 29710.

South Point Park at River Hills. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

Visit our website and our Facebook page to learn more about us! www.stjamesLW.com | 661.303.8101 | frjohnplus@yahoo.com 2026 Newcomers Guide

47


ON THE LAKE River Stop Food Mart 3900 Mt. Gallant Road Rock Hill, SC 29732 803-329-0002

WalMart - Lake Wylie 175 S.C. 274 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-2115

WalMart - Newport

FISHING LICENSE INFORMATION A fishing license is required for anyone age 16 or older when fishing in any public water, including coastal waters, in both

4875 Old York Road Rock Hill, SC 29732 803-323-2080

WalMart - Tega Cay 1151 Stonecrest Blvd. Tega Cay, SC 29708 803-578-4140

Carolinas. Purchase N.C. licenses by calling 888-248-6834 or at www.ncwildlife.org. S.C. licenses are available at www.dnr. sc.gov or by calling 803-734-3833. A seven-day license can be purchased for out-of-state visitors. Must have a valid state ID.

Grab N Go

13920 S. Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28278 704-587-0045

LW Chamber partners with York County to clean our waterways

T

he Lake Wylie Chamber, in partnership with York County, supports the Adopt-a-Stream and Storm Drain Marking programs as part of its Green Initiative. Businesses, neighborhoods and individuals support these programs and make the lake and community a beautiful place. Get Involved. Adopt a Stream or Cove and/ or Mark Storm Drains in your area. Organize your group or neighbors to join and help keep our waterways clean.

Adopt-a-Stream Benefits • Keep Waterways Litter-free • Awareness of your watershed • Training on how to monitor the health of your stream • Recognition of your group on an Adopt-A-Stream sign • Certificate of appreciation

48

Living On Lake Wylie

• Community pride in our streams and coves

Storm Drain Marking Information

Storm drains are the drains that you see at street corners or low points in the street or parking lot, used for transporting stormwater. Whatever goes into a storm drain is discharged directly into our waterways.

Marking drains with a simple message about not dumping waste can help increase awareness and public involvement of this very important issue. For more information about these and other conservation programs, contact Tom Dissington, York County Environmental Outreach, at 803-909-7136 or email tom.dissington@yorkcountygov.com or call the Lake Wylie Chamber office at 803-831-2827.


N.C. & S.C. Lake and Boating Rules North Carolina

• Anyone driving a boat age 28 or younger is required to take a certified safe-boating course. • No person younger than 14 can operate a personal watercraft. Ages 14-16 must have a boater education certificate or be physically accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. • Personal watercraft riders must always wear personal flotation devices. A safety kill switch lanyard must be attached to the operator, and personal watercraft are not allowed to operate between sunset and sunrise. • Children 13 years old or younger must always wear a personal flotation device on the water. • At least one properly functioning personal flotation device must be onboard a vessel for each person riding. • Operation of any vessel, or use of water skis or other towed devices, is not allowed while “under the influence of an impairing substance.” A blood-alcohol level of .08 or greater is not allowed.

• Watercraft traveling within 50 yards of a state-owned or controlled boating and fishing access area must do so at “no-wake” speed. • Vessels should operate at “no-wake” speed when passing within 100 feet of a law enforcement vessel flashing blue lights unless the vessel is in a narrow channel, where 50 feet is required. • Towing is prohibited between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise, or any other time unless the vessel has a rear vision mirror, there is an observer in addition to the operator or the person being towed wears a flotation device. • Putting litter, raw sewage or other liquid or solid materials rendering the water “unsightly, noxious or otherwise unwholesome” and determinantal to public health or welfare is prohibited. • All navigational markers and buoys should be observed. Go to www.ncwilslife.org for details.

South Carolina

• Vessels may not be operated more than idle speed within 50 feet of an anchored vessel, wharf, pier, dock or person in the water. • All boast must have a Coast Guard approved wearable personal flotation device for each person on board or being towed.

• Boats 16 feet in length or longer must carry a Type IV throwable flotation device. • Any person younger than 12 must wear a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device when on board a class “A” (less than 16 feet long) boat. • Navigation lights must be on between official sunset and sunrise. • Boats less than 39.4 feet must carry an efficient sound-producing device. Vessels from 39.4 to 65.6 feet must carry a whistle and a bell. • Each person on a personal watercraft must wear a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. • Personal watercraft may not be operated between sunset and sunrise and must have a self-circling or lanyard engine cutoff switch. • Personal watercraft may not be operated in a manner to leave the water completely while jumping the wake within 200 feet of the vessel creating the wake. • Boat operators younger than 16 must complete a boating course approved by the SCDNR to operate any watercraft with a 15hp motor or greater, unless accompanied by an adult age 18 or older. • Vessels cannot discharge in a No Discharge Zone.

Gift Certificates Available! A full-service med spa featuring: Laser Hair Removal Physician Weight Loss Botox/Daxxify Hair Restoration Vitamin Injections IV Therapy

Skin Tightening & Rejuvenation Facials Medical Esthetics Dermal Fillers Memberships & More! Owners Dr. Robert & Tracy Latham

1616 Village Harbor Drive, Lake Wylie, SC 29710 | 803.619.4061 www.rejuvenatelakewylie.com | contact@rejuvenatelakewylie.com 2026 Newcomers Guide

49


CARING COMMUNITY Supporting Neighbors, Strengthening Community: Clover Area Assistance Center

F

By Cameron Hurst

or more than 25 years, Clover Area Assistance Center (CAAC) has been a trusted resource for residents facing food insecurity, financial strain, or unexpected hardships, and a meaningful way for neighbors to support one another.

Outreach programs like Community Cafe help many people in the Lake Wylie area. (Photo/ Kathy Widenhouse)

A Full-Choice Pantry That Honors Dignity

CAAC operates a full-choice food pantry, which functions much like a small grocery store. Instead of receiving pre-boxed food, households shop directly from the shelves once each month and choose items that best fit their family’s needs and preferences. This model supports dignity, reduces food waste, and allows families to feel more in control during difficult times. The pantry is stocked with a variety of fresh produce, dairy, meat, pantry staples, and personal care items, thanks to generous community donations and partnerships with local farms and businesses. In addition to in-person shopping appointments, CAAC also offers a delivery program for households with limited transportation, ensuring that no one is left without access to nutritious food.

Seasonal Support for Local Families

Each year, CAAC provides holiday meal assistance to hundreds of households, ensuring families can enjoy a special meals without added financial stress. Holiday food kits typically include traditional items such as turkeys or hams, along with sides and pantry staples to create a full, festive meal. This program is made possible through community donations and is one of the many ways CAAC helps families celebrate the holidays with dignity and comfort.

Support Beyond Groceries

While the food pantry remains the center of CAAC’s work, the organization also offers broader support to help households stay stable during challenging times. This can include assistance with essential needs, such as rent, utilities, or other urgent costs, as resources allow. Staff work closely with each household to understand their situation and provide guidance, referrals to partner agencies, and practical next steps. 50

Living On Lake Wylie

CAAC recently expanded its capacity with the opening of its new Outreach and Administration Center. This dedicated space now serves as a hub for client consultations, financial literacy programming, and community workshops. It also provides room for partner agencies to offer on-site services, making it easier for families to access a range of support services in one convenient location.

Empowering Through Education

CAAC offers financial literacy classes throughout the year, covering topics such as budgeting, understanding needs versus wants, goal setting, and managing credit wisely. With the new Outreach and Administration Center now open, CAAC is continuing to broaden its educational opportunities and bring in programs led by health, nutrition, and financial experts from across the region.

Community Support Makes It Possible

CAAC’s impact is built on the generosity of local residents, churches, civic groups, and businesses. Community members support CAAC in a variety of ways: • Donating food: Shelf-stable items, fresh produce, and household essentials help keep the pantry shelves full year-round. • Giving financially: Monetary donations

allow CAAC to purchase needed items in bulk and provide direct assistance during emergencies. • Volunteering time: Volunteers help with pantry appointments, stocking shelves, answering phones, delivering food, and assisting with seasonal programs. • Hosting drives: Schools, neighborhoods, employers, and clubs frequently collect food and hygiene items to support the pantry. • Sharing information: Spreading the word about CAAC’s services ensures residents know where to turn when they or someone they know need support.

A Welcoming Resource for Anyone in Need

Whether someone is facing a temporary setback or a long-term challenge, CAAC strives to be a place of compassion and practical assistance. The organization serves people from all backgrounds, creating a welcoming environment where neighbors can receive help without judgment. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please call CAAC at 803-222-4837. For those looking to get involved, Clover Area Assistance Center represents the very best of what it means to be part of this community: neighbors helping neighbors, with dignity and kindness at the forefront.


Victory Farm offers therapeutic & adaptive horsemanship programs. (Photo/Jan Todd)

2026 Newcomers Guide

51


CARING COMMUNITY Vale Campus Brings Wellness and Sustainability to Lake Wylie Living

L

ake Wylie’s newest development, Vale Campus, is more than an apartment com-munity. It is a 25-acre vision that blends sustainability, and a true sense of place cohesive destination. Still under construction but already drawing attention, Vale is setting itself apart with green building practices, a focus on healthy living, and amenities that are as open to the community as they are to residents.

First of its Kind The project is the first of its kind for founder and managing principal of Archetype Investments, Jaykant Patel, who is spearheading Vale Campus alongside his longtime friend and partner, Rama Penta. The two first conceived the concept during the height of the COVID pandemic. Quarantines, changing lifestyles, and a heightened awareness of health and wellbeing along with an increased ap-preciation of the outdoors shaped their thinking. Patel had worked on green-certified projects before, but the pandemic reinforced the need to look beyond environmental sustainability toward the wellness of the people who live, work, and gather inside and around those spaces. “Green buildings focus on how materials, con-struction, and processes impact the environment,” Patel explained. “Well-certified buildings focus on how the environment inside impacts the occu-pants. There is

Aerial rendering of Vale Campus Lake Wylie, showing its mix of modern residences, green space, and community-focused design. Photo courtesy of ARCHETYPE

overlap, but the emphasis is different. We wanted to fuse both.” The result is a community designed to meet Green Globes standards for sustainability while also achieving WELL Certification, a program that evaluates a building’s air, water, nourishment, light, movement, thermal comfort, sound, and materials to optimize health. This combination is rare in any market and virtually unheard of in multifamily developments.

It’s All in the Technology Patel’s partner, Rama Penta, brought a unique perspective from his career in technology and business development. The two began discussing ways to embed wellness technologies directly into everyday living— particularly in multifamily environments where controlled settings and scale make advanced features more affordable. This thinking gave rise to WELLIFIZE, a proprietary, patent-pending digital platform that will be integrated throughout Vale Campus. WEL-LIFIZE is designed to

personalize wellness, con-necting residents with healthy choices, events, and services in real time.

Campus and Community Focused Living

The campus itself is divided into two major sections: residential and commercial. The residential portion, covering roughly 16 acres at the back of the site, will feature three apartment buildings. As of late summer, the first building—housing most of the community amenities—was nearly half leased. The second building is awaiting its certificate of occupancy, and the largest, third building is projected for completion by the end of September. The residential amenities are intentionally designed to foster a sense of connection and encourage healthy living. While certain spaces, such as interior courtyards, will be reserved for residents, much of the outdoor environment will be open to the public. Vale’s scenic pond, walking trails, and pavilion will welcome visitors from across the Lake Wylie community. Patel envisions the pavilion hosting local musicians, community events, and wellnessoriented programs, creating a vibrant gathering spot that has long been missing in the area. “The community has grown so much, but there is not a true central gathering space,” Patel said. “We want to build that from the ground up—somewhere people can walk, meet friends, hear music, and feel part of something.”

Wellness Centric Retail A closer look at Vale Campus’ central pavilion and outdoor gathering space designed for concerts, markets, and community events. Photo courtesy of ARCHETYPE

52

Living On Lake Wylie

The commercial phase, which fronts the prop-erty, will feature boutique retail, restaurants, and service providers—all chosen


for their alignment with Vale community’s health and wellness theme. The goal is to attract businesses that complement the residential environment and offer value to the entire region. Construction on the retail section is set to begin in late spring or summer next year, and Patel expects it will move quickly. In the meantime, the open areas may be used for temporary activities such as soccer or outdoor play, further integrating the site into local routines even before the shops and restaurants open.

Long-term Community Investment

Beyond the individual components, Vale Cam-pus is being developed with a longterm mindset. That commitment has shaped decisions from de-sign to operations. Larger-than-usual lobby spaces will accommodate business and civic events, providing meeting areas for local community organizations. Outdoor spaces will be designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind, offering shaded seating, water features, and places to work remotely or just relax. Even with the community still taking shape, interest has been strong. Visitors touring the property have included homeowners ready to downsize. The appeal of a purpose-built, wellness-focused envi-ronment is evident, especially as residents prioritize health, connection, and convenience in their living choices.

Persistence Plus Timing For Patel, the significance of the project goes beyond the buildings themselves. The story of acquiring the land, which he first tried to purchase as far back as 2016, is one of persistence and timing. After losing out on the site to another buyer, Patel assumed the opportunity had passed—until the property unexpectedly came back on the market and Archetype Investments secured it. “It was meant to be,” Patel said. “The location is perfect, and it gave us the chance to bring this unique concept to life right here in Lake Wylie.” When Vale Campus is fully realized, it will be a destination that combines sustainable design, personalized wellness technology, and a mix of residential and commercial spaces open to the broader community. Patel and Penta believe that the model could be replicated in other markets, but their focus now is on making Vale a point of pride for Lake Wylie. For more information or to schedule a tour, visit valecampus.com.

Get Involved Bethel Volunteer Fire Department (At Lake Wylie)

chief@bvfdinc.com facebook.com/bethelscvfd

Clover Area Assistance Center P.O. Box 521 Clover, SC 29710 803-222-4837 caac@bellsouth.net cloverareaassistance.org

Clover Rotary Club cloverrotary@gmail.org cloverrotary.org

Lake Wylie Athletic Association lwinfo@LWsports.org president@lwsports.org lwsports.org

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

264 Latitude Lane #101 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-2827 lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com lakewyliesc.com

Lake Wylie Rotary Club

president@lakewylierotary.org lakewylierotary.org

River Hills/Lake Wylie Emergency Squad

4 Heritage Drive Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-9888 - Non-emergency Phone rhes@comporium.net info@thems.org rhems.org

River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club gene_ius@att.net RHLWLions.org

River Hills Yacht Club

54 Marina Road Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-439-5394 – Club Phone Rhyachtclub@gmail.com riverhillsyachtclub.com

Sweet Repeat Charitable Foundation

4082B Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0722 - Sweet Repeat store facebook.com/SRLW2015/?fref=ts

HELPING OUT

Lake Wylie residents and businesses are very active in their participation in area nonprofits and charities. Donating time, money and other resources to a good cause is an excellent way to help make the lives of less-fortunate people better and maintain the natural beauty of the lake.

2026 Newcomers Guide

53


FOOD/DRINK Seared salmon at Zo.ra Food and Wine. (Photo/Provided)

Lake Wylie n i d n u o b a s Dining option

D

ining options around Lake Wylie have never been more varied. From fast food to fast casual to sit-down culinary experience, Lake Wylie and its surrounding communities continue to add new choices and changes to old favorites. New restaurants are coming to all parts of the lake, including Clover, Steele Creek, Lake Wylie and Fort Mill. Papa Doc’s Shore Club offers tranquil lake views from its outdoor area and much of its indoor seating. Expanded and updated indoor and outdoor areas and an exciting new menu help make it one of Lake Wylie's most popular dining destinations. The area’s growing population has made it attractive to national and regional restaurant chains in the past five to 10 years, with an influx of major brands, including Moe’s Southwest Grill, Arby’s, Zaxby’s and others. 54

Living On Lake Wylie

The Copper Premium Pub offers a spacious outdoor dining area. (Photo/Copper Premium Pub)


Papa Doc's Shore Club is a popluar outdoor eating spot. (Photo/Papa Doc's)

2026 Newcomers Guide

55


DINING GUIDE Christopher’s Bar and Grille

Rey Azteca Mexican. (Photo/Jan Todd)

1500 Village Harbor Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-2461

Copper Premium Pub 4516 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-701-7021

Domino’s Pizza

125 E. Evergreen Rd. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-7075

Dunkin Donuts

335 Vesla Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-675-6044

Famous Toastery of Lake Wylie 5217 S.C. Hwy. 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-675-6000

Jersey Mike’s

604 Nautical Drive, Suite 101 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0912

Kochi Japanese Steakhouse 5360 S.C. Hwy. 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-610-0146

Lake Wylie Pins N' Wins 4034 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-2553

Lake Wylie Italian and Pizza

Arby’s

Big Papa’s Pizzeria

Azteca Grill

Bojangles

Lee’s Hoagie House

Bagel Boat – Bagels

Cherry – Asian Cuisine

Lily’s Bistro

511 Nautical Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803- 831-5555 604 Nautical Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-8930 4090 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-5995

Best China

5243 S.C. Hwy. 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-5540 56

Living On Lake Wylie

5800 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-619-4111 4927 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-9346 4034 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-9594

Chilpotle Mexican Grill 5001 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710

4074 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0855

312 Bulkhead Way Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-619-4046 4547 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-701-7788

McDonald’s

5262 S.C. Hwy. 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0577


DINING GUIDE Moe’s Southwest Grill 312 Bulkhead Way, #105 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-398-1663

Panda Hut

144 S.C. Hwy. 274 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-631-1988

Papa Doc’s Shore Club 3990 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0043

Papa John’s

221 Latitude Lane, Suite 101 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0101

Pier 88 at River Hills Marina 54 Marina Rd. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0088

Pizza Hut

5241 S.C. Hwy. 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-1188

River Hills Country Club

Waffle House

Starbucks

Wendy’s

Subway

Wylie’s Eats and Drinks

Sweetwater Grille

Zaxby’s

Taco Bell at Lake Wylie

Zo.ra Food and Wine

1 Country Club Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-2126

1201 Village Harbor Drive, #101 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 704-591-5361 5245 S.C. Hwy. 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0143 4582 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-1788

311 Vesla Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-701-7068

5013 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0315 5188 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710-8099 803-831-2687 4052 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-701-7295 143 S.C. Hwy. 274 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-2634 1201 Village Harbor Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-619-4047

Thai Fusion

125 Evergreen Rd.. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-746-5047

Rey Azteca Mexican 4052 Charlotte Hwy. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-9277

Zo.ra Food and Wine offers a variety of menu options. (Photo/Provided)

2026 Newcomers Guide

57


CALENDAR OF EVENTS JANUARY Carowinds

Open year-round starting in 2023 with weekend hours in January, February and early March. Check online at carowinds. com/calendar-and-hours for dates and times.

MARCH Old Town Rock Hill St. Patrick’s Day Festival

Live Irish music, Irish dancers, food and beverages and more. onlyinoldtown.com/ stpatricks

Clover St. Patrick’s Day Festival Family friendly entertainment, food vendors, rides, a St. Patrick’s Day dog show and a “Leprechaun Leap” 5k run/ walk. cloversc.org

Carowinds spring opening day

Kickstart the spring season with worldclass thrill rides, fun-filled family attractions, live entertainment and more. The park is open through Dec. 31. carowinds.com

Children’s Day on the Farm

Historic Brattonsville’s annual family event focuses on farm life in the 18th and 19th centuries. This historic learning opportunity offers a wide variety of hands-on activities. chmuseums.org/ brattonsville

City of Rock Hill Easter Egg hunt The Great Easter Egg Classic is held at Cherry Park for children. wrhi.com/ events/easter-egg-classic

Carowinds Easter Eggstravaganza and Spring Break Photos with Eggward and Snoopy, as well as special activities, crafts and entertainment. carowinds.com

APRIL Clover Choraliers spring concert

The award-winning Clover Choraliers will hold their annual spring concert on several dates in April. Go online to www. CloverChoraliers.com for box office hours and information.

Come-See-Me festival

Rock Hill’s annual salute to spring. More details online at comeseeme.org

58

Living On Lake Wylie

Earth Day Event

River Jam

Carowinds Taste of the Carolinas

Rock the Park at Carowinds

The Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill hosts its annual Earth Day event with canoeing, kayaking, face painting, horse rides and farm animals. ascgreenway.org Experience the best of Carolina cuisine on Saturdays and Sundays through May. Sample authentic regional cuisine, try local craft beer and wine and enjoy home-grown entertainment. carowinds.com

Strawberry Saturdays at Bush-N-Vine

Pick-your-own berries, strawberry-themed treats, music and more at this York farm. Dates to be determined by weather and strawberry availability. Check the website, bushnvinefarm.com/strawberry-saturdays, or call 803-684-2732 for updates.

MAY S.C. Strawberry Festival

The award-winning, two-day festival in Fort Mill includes arts, crafts, amusements, a car show, live music and a fireworks display. scstrawberryfestival. com

A free, outdoor weekly concert series through September at the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte. National musical acts and food and craft beer selections. usnwc.org Carowinds showcases a variety of musical acts. Purchase advance tickets online at rocktheparkfest.com/tickets

York County Ag Art Tour

A free, self-guided tour of farms and local artisans in York County that is part of the statewide Ag Art Tour. Visit agandarttour.com for a list of participating farms.

Tega Cay Summer Food Truck Rallies

Monthly food truck rallies held at Runde Park with music acts, kids’ activities and concessions. Email jblethen@tegacaysc.gov or call 803-548-3512.

Father’s Day weekend at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden Free garden admission for all fathers with family crafts and activities, live music and more. dsbg.org

Clover Choraliers Candlelight performance

JULY

Glencairn BloomFest

Lake Wylie’s annual fireworks display can be viewed from many parts of the lake near the Buster Boyd Bridge. lakewyliechamber.com

The award-winning choir’s candlelight performance, featuring classic choral music. Go online to CloverChoraliers. com for ticket details. This family event in Rock Hill features plants, garden art, pottery, baskets and other garden-themed items for sale from local vendors. cityofrockhill/bloomfest

JUNE Sip & Stroll at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Wine, live music and a scenic setting at Lost Hollow’s Hillside Theatre. Free with garden admission. dsbg.org

Lake Wylie Community Fourth of July Fireworks

Tega Cay Fourth of July Celebration

Tega Cay celebrates the town’s and nation’s birthday on July 4 each year with parades on land and water and other allday activities, including a large fireworks display. tegacaysc.org

AUGUST York Summerfest

One of the largest festivals in South Carolina includes concerts, food, an antique car show, unique craft vendors and more. yorksummerfest.com

SEPTEMBER

Hard Cider tastings at Windy Hill Orchard Saturdays in the fall, features live music, an open-air farm stand, pick-your-own apples and a hayride at the York farm. windyhillorchard.com


2026 Newcomers Guide

59


CALENDAR OF EVENTS Fiddle ‘n Pig Shindig

The Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill hosts the annual barbecue and bluegrass festival featuring bluegrass acts from the Carolinas and a variety of barbecue and other food trucks. ascgreenway.org

Great Pumpkin Fest at Carowinds

Family friendly Halloween attractions for the little ghosts and goblins Saturdays and through October. Visit carowinds.com for ticket information.

Piedmont Pottery and Pickin’ Festival

Potters from the Carolinas will be on hand at Historic Brattonsville. Also, demonstrations in 18th-century cooking with pottery on an open hearth, music, barbecue, tours and booths. chmuseums. org/brattonsville

OCTOBER Lake Wylie Children’s Charity Inc. Fall Benefit Concert The annual fall benefit raises funds to help families of children with lifethreatening illnesses. facebook.com/ LKWchildcharity

Curtin Farms Fest

A community gathering featuring a marketplace for handmade, handcrafted and hand-restored goods at a working farm in Clover. curtinfarms.com

Lost Hollow Music Festival

Live music and jam sessions with the Catawba River Bluegrass Association at Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens. Food trucks, craft beer, kids’ activities and

60

Living On Lake Wylie

more. dsbg.org

Apple Harvest Festival

Annual fall festival at Windy Hill Orchard in York. windyhillorchard.com

Tega Cay Fall Festival

Arts and crafts, businesses, food/beverage vendors and more. tegacaysc.org

NOVEMBER Feis Chlobhair Scottish Games in Clover

The two-day festival celebrates the town’s Scots-Irish heritage. cloversc.org

Visit with Santa at Stowe Dairy Farms

Santa Claus will arrive and greet children. The farm will also have choose-and-cut Christmas trees. stowedairyfarms.com

Winter Wonderland Craft Fair at Anne Springs Close Greenway

More than 150 artists and crafters will offer unique holiday gifts and decorations. ascgreenway.org

NarroWay Theatre holiday shows

NarroWay Productions puts on new productions every holiday season. For tickets, show details and more information, visit narroway.net

DECEMBER Christmasville in Rock Hill

Old Town Rock Hill will come alive as a charming, picturesque holiday village and outdoor art festival, including horse-drawn

carriage rides, strolling carolers, an artisan craft market, a real ice skating rink and more. christmasvillerockhill.com

Clover Woman’s Club “Christmas in Historic Clover” home tour The annual tour visits historic homes decorated for the holidays. cloverwomansclub.com

Town of Clover Christmas celebrations

Tree lighting ceremony and annual Clover Highland Christmas parade. cloversc.org

Christmas Candlelight Tours at Historic Brattonsville

Experience a Southern-style Christmas in the Carolina Backcountry. Activities for all ages, campfire, music and food available. chmuseums.org

Christmas in Olde York Towne Home Tour

Annual holiday tour of historic homes and other buildings benefits the Yorkville Historical Society. yorkvillehs.com

Clover Choraliers winter concert

Annual winter concert is held on several dates in December. cloverchoraliers.com

Downtown Christmas Village in Belmont

This family friendly event features carriage rides, trolley rides, carolers, Santa and more. cityofbelmont.org

Lake Wylie’s Lights on the Lake Boat Parade and Christmas on the Lake A family friendly event with warming huts, a live Nativity, music and a luminary release. lakewyliechambersc.com


Map data: Google, DigitalGlobe

274

274 152

279

274

152

Oakridge Rd

Hwy 557

1116

49

49

Lake Wylie

152

49

55

160 49

460

49 274

98

L

ake Wylie is a census-designated place (CDP) in York County. The population was 13,655 in the 2020 census. Lake Wylie is located on a peninsula along the northwest shore of Lake Wylie, a manmade reservoir on the Catawba River that was named for Dr. W. Gill Wylie in 1960. The community is

an affluent suburb of Charlotte, N.C., which is about a 20-minute drive to the northeast. Lake Wylie has a total area of 4.7 square miles, of which 3.5 square miles are land and 1.3 square miles (26.58%) are water. The average elevation is 512 feet. 2026 Newcomers Guide

61


NEWCOMER INFORMATION ELECTRICITY

VOTER REGISTRATION

Steele Creek Public Library

803-329-5500 cityofrockhill.com

803-684-1242 yorkcountygov.com/ RegistrationandElections

York Public Library

City of Rock Hill

Duke Energy

803-547-2007 or 803-684-9939 duke-energy.com

GOVERNMENT OFFICES

York Electric Cooperative

155 Johnston St., Rock Hill 803-325-2500 cityofrockhill.com

803-548-4244 (Fort Mill) 803-684-4248 (York) yorkelectric.net

Natural Gas

York County Natural Gas Authority 803-329-5255 ycnga.com

GARBAGE

Big C Disposal & Recycling Service, LLC 803-610-2212 bigcdisposal.com

D&D Sanitation 803-222-3862 d2sanitation.com

City of Rock Hill

City of Tega Cay

7725 Tega Cay Drive, Tega Cay 803-548-3512 tegacaysc.org

City of York

City Hall Building 10 N. Roosevelt St., York 803-684-2341 yorkcitysc.com

Town of Clover

116 Bethel St., Clover 803-222-9495 cloversc.org

Town of Fort Mill

803-372-6666 lgarbage.com

PO Box 159 (29716) 200 Tom Hall St., Fort Mill 803-547-2116 fortmillsc.gov

TELEPHONE

City of Belmont

Liberty Waste Services

AT&T (Clover) 803-780-2355 att.com

Comporium Communications 803-324-9011 803-548-9011 803-684-1012 comporium.com

CABLE TV

Comporium Communications 803-324-9011 comporium.com

Spectrum (Clover)

115 N. Main St., Belmont, NC 704-825-5586 cityofbelmont.org

York County Government 6 South Congress St., York 803-628-3954 yorkcountygov.com

York County Libraries yclibrary.org

York County Library - Main Branch 138 East Black St., Rock Hill 803-981-5860

704-228-7248 spectrum.com

Clover Public Library

DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES

Fort Mill Public Library

305 Hands Mill Highway, Rock Hill 803-329-6332 3071 U.S. 21, Fort Mill 803-547-8350 scdmvonline.com

62

Living On Lake Wylie

107 Knox St., Clover 803-222-3474

1818 2nd Baxter Crossing, Fort Mill 803-547-4114

Lake Wylie Public Library 185 Blucher Circle, Lake Wylie 803-831-7774 yclibrary.org

13620 Steele Creek Road, Charlotte 704-416-6800 cmlibrary.org/branch/steele-creek 21 East Liberty St., York 803-684-3751

LAKE WYLIE UTILITIES

York County Water & Sewer: 803-909-7275 Natural Gas - York County Natural Gas Authority: 803-323-5304 Sanitation - D&D Sanitation: 803-222-3862 Lake Wylie (York County) Collection and Recycling Center: 803-628-3181 Hours: 7AM – 7PM M-F, except Wed.; 102 Bethel School Road, off Hwy. 557 W. Electricity - Duke Energy: 800-769-3766 or 800-Poweron York Electric Co-op: 803-684-4248 Comporium Communications: 803-684-1012 AT&T: 800-288-2020

BELMONT

Water Services - 115 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012, PO Box 431 Water Billing Questions: 704-825-5586 Finance: 704-825-5586 Fire: 704-825-0502 Parks & Recreation: 704-825-8191 Planning & Zoning: 704-901-2610 Police: 704-825-3792 Public Works: 1401 E Catawba St., Belmont, NC 28012; P: 704-825-0507, F: 704-825-6502

FORT MILL

Water / Sewer Bill: 803-547-2034 Business License: 803-547-2034 Codes and Inspections: 803-547-2034 Planning and Zoning: 803-547-2116 Engineering: 803-396-9728 Facility Rental: 803-547-2116

TEGA CAY

Water Services: 704-825-5586 Water Billing Questions: 704-825-5586 Finance: 704-825-5586 Fire: 704-825-0502 Parks & Recreation: 704-825-8191 Planning & Zoning: 704-901-2610 Police: 704-825-3792

STEELE CREEK

Steele Creek Residents Association PO Box 39396 Charlotte, NC 28278 info@steelecreekresidents.org steelecreekresidents.org/default.htm


CAMP THUNDERBIRD– FUN FOR EVERYONE

Lake Wylie is home to YMCA Camp Thunderbird, which has hosted children and families for more than 80 years. The camp spreads out over more than 100 acres along 1.7 miles of Lake Wylie shoreline, and provides outdoor activities and educational programs for just about any interest and young age group. From waterskiing to wall-climbing, craftmaking to canoeing and much more, Camp Thunderbird offers memories and friendships that last a lifetime.

2026 Newcomers Guide

63


Living on the lake

While there might not be a pot of gold at the end of this rainbow, it makes for a beautiful scene over Lake Wylie. Rain or shine, the lake abounds with natural splendor and provides residents with year-round boating, fishing and recreational opportunities. The Lake Wylie region has experienced significant growth over the past decade-plus as more and more people discover what a special place this is to live and work.

(Photo/Jan Todd)

64

Living On Lake Wylie


THE RIGHT PARTNER MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE For more than 185 years, we’ve forged personal relationships with our customers and communities, funding economic development and rallying around the causes that are important to our neighbors. With local bankers you know and trust, businesses and individuals throughout the Carolinas continue to choose United Bank.


Proudly serving the Clover and Lake Wylie area for over

25

If you are looking for an unparalleled sales or service experience, this is the place! Check out our Google reviews.

Variable Service Discount Coupon

Fred Caldwell Chevrolet 974 Bethel Street Clover, SC 29710 803.222.4581 www.FredCaldwellChevy.com Spend This

Save This

$50.00 - $99.99 $100.00 - $199.99 $200.00 - $299.99 $300.00 - $399.99 $400.00 and up

$10 $20 $30 $40 $50


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Lake Wylie - Newcomers Guide 2026 by SC Biz News - Issuu