Herbert H. Jessen Public Boat Landing

Ahoy there, fellow adventurers! If you’re looking for a place that’ll make you feel as patriotic as a bald eagle soaring through a clear blue sky, then let me tell you about the Herbert H. Jessen Boat Landing in Summerville, SC. This spot is more American than apple pie at a Fourth of July barbecue! First off, let’s talk about the location. Nestled right by the picturesque waterways of South Carolina, this boat landing is a sight for sore eyes. I mean, if you squint just right, the view is so beautiful you might think you’re staring at a Thomas Kinkade painting! The shimmering water reflects the great American spirit—just like my old Chevy reflects the sun after a good wax job! Now, let’s dive into the real reason we’re here: the boating! I’ll tell you, this landing has more docks than a fishing tournament on a Saturday morning. Whether you’re launching your trusty fishing boat or just paddling around in a kayak with a ‘Don’t Tread on Me’ flag flying high, you’ll feel like you’re the captain of your own ship—complete with a crew of squirrels and ducks cheering you on! And speaking of cheers, don’t forget to bring your family along! This place is as family-friendly as a picnic in the park. The kids can run around, and you can teach them the fine art of fishing while keeping an eye on that sneaky raccoon who thinks he’s entitled to your lunch. Nothing says “family bonding” like a little competition over who can catch the biggest fish—or who can make the best dad jokes! The only downside? I didn’t see any hotdog stands. What’s a boat landing without a good wiener in hand? But hey, that’s just a minor hiccup in an otherwise perfect day. So, grab your fishing gear, some sunscreen, and the biggest cooler you can find—this is a place where memories are made, and laughter echoes across the water. The Herbert H. Jessen Boat Landing is a true gem in Summerville. It’s a place to celebrate life, family, and the great outdoors. So, hop in the car, crank up some country tunes, and get ready for a day that’ll make you feel as proud as a firefighter at a parade!

It's tidal water, you can fish here. Fish wasn't biting that day. They have restrooms for certain hours. Covered tables and benches for picnic, boat ramp.

The landing is close to home so we visit almost every day. Being new to the area we met many nice people here of all ages. People bring their dogs and the have stands with bags in case you aren't prepared. There's picnic tables and a pavilion. Couple of old fashioned park grills. Short boardwalk trails provide beautiful views of the river and wildlife. We have seen alligators, one was eating a fish. Had a snake slither by my foot while sitting at a picnic table close to the water. Harmless snake but be careful along the rocks along shore. Snakes are always seen there and some can be venomous. Others have seen otters, dolphins and manatee. I haven't fished here but have seen people catch catfish, mullet, bass, and a fish I couldn't identify. You can't swim here but there are alligators so it's not a good idea anyway. I understand the park will be expanded, they already own the property. More trails and boardwalk potentially connecting to the path that goes along the Sawmill Branch. The ramp and park is open 24/7 but beware, the restrooms are supposed to close at sunset but sometimes a little earlier. If you kayak use the launch behind the bathrooms. Hopefully they will build additional parking because it gets full quickly when the weather is nice. Easy boat parking but ramp could use a dock next to it for easier access.

Not just a boat launch. It is a nice place to have a picnic on the Ashley River. There is a couple of little fishing docks to set up shop and possibly catch a couple of fish, There are also a couple of trails around but be weary some of them lead to dead ends where there is clearly someone living in a tent or a little encampment. I dont mind seeing homeless people in parks but I dont want to be walking on a trail in the middle of the woods and come across an entire emcampment of people.

The launch was a great perk! Im new to kayaking, and this was helpful getting me in. HATE that I had to pickup so much trash in and around the river, but scenery was beautiful! Being July it was very hot, and low tide, but I'll definitely be back 🛶