Shoreline
EBENEZER PARK’S
NEW LOOK
Renovation makes room for swimmers, boaters, anglers, campers By Kathy Widenhouse
L
ake Wylie boasts just a single dedicated public swim beach. And it’s situated right in our backyard at Ebenezer Park in north Rock Hill. Set on Lake Wylie’s southwestern shore, the park draws a constant stream of visitors, thanks in large part to its stunning panoramic views and 67-site campground. Add to that water access, picnic shelters, grills, a volleyball court, and playground equipment and it’s no wonder that guests say it’s “an awesome place to enjoy the lake” with “beautiful scenery” offering “fun times every time we visit.” Yet through the years, the public beach combined with a boat launch and campground in a concentrated space had made for special challenges. Swimmers elbowed out anglers for space on the shoreline. Kayakers had no way to launch their boats safely. And parking lot runoff muddied the waters for everyone. Five years ago, visitors and residents alike began clamoring for a park facelift. The county complied in 2018 by approving a master plan for Ebenezer Park Improvements. And now, as Ebenezer Park enters its fourth decade, it’s gotten the makeover that residents and visitors have been asking for.
The park’s $1 lease
In the late 1980s, Duke Energy approached local officials with a proposal. The utility would lease its 26 waterfront acres to the county for $1 year. In turn, the county would develop a park, staff it, and maintain it. York County embraced the project and built the park. Named for the historic, unincorporated Ebenezer township several miles away — one of the earliest settlements in York County — Ebenezer opened the waterfront swim and picnic area in 1989. The campground was added in 1992. That was the same year Pat Morrison joined the staff as a park ranger helping to manage guests and maintain the park’s facilities. After a hiatus 2008-2011 to work in Charleston, Pat returned to York County and Ebenezer Park — this time as park superintendent. “When I sat down with my staff, I asked them an important question,” says Pat. “What can we do to improve the park for York County residents and other visitors?” The first step was clear: take care of the eroding shoreline. Spring 2021 | Lake Wylie Today
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