Lake Monticello (Monticello Reservoir) is a 6,700-acre lake in Fairfield County near Jenkinsville, northwest of Columbia along the Broad River.
We rent MasterCraft wakesurf boats, Sea-Doo jet skis and water toys on Lake Monticello, and everything is ready for you at the lake. Add a captained charter with lessons for every level.
It was built in 1978 to supply the V.C. Summer nuclear station and the Fairfield Pumped Storage plant, with Parr Reservoir just below on the Broad River.
Boat, jet ski and water toy rentals at Lake Monticello
Just show up and ride — your boat, jet skis and gear are ready at Lake Monticello with no towing required.
- Wakesurf and ski boat rentals – MasterCraft boats seating 12 to 18, set up for a full day of surfing, skiing and tubing on Lake Monticello.
- Sea-Doo rentals – rent a single jet ski or several for your group's day on Lake Monticello.
- Boat tours & private charters – relax while an experienced driver-instructor handles the boat, with wakesurf, wakeboard and ski lessons for every level.
- Water toys – tubes, lily pads, water trampolines, paddle boards and more to keep the whole group busy.
Book Now or call or text 1-888-594-6610 – we answer 7 a.m.–10 p.m. every day.
Lake Monticello at a glance
| Location | Jenkinsville, Fairfield County |
|---|---|
| Size | About 6,700 acres |
| Depth | Up to about 89 feet |
| Paired with | Parr Reservoir |
| River basin | Broad River |
| Setting | Open water, wooded shores |
Best things to do on Lake Monticello
- Wakesurfing – calm coves on still mornings.
- Water skiing and tubing – open water on the main lake.
- Jet skiing – long open runs.
- Fishing – known for big catfish.
Where to launch at Lake Monticello
- Public access areas – ramps on the east and west sides near Jenkinsville.
Weekday mornings are the quietest time on the water. Your rental from us is ready at the lake.
Tips for a great day on Lake Monticello
- Mornings are calmest for surfing.
- South Carolina requires an observer or a wide-angle mirror when towing.
- Jet skis can't run between sunset and sunrise in South Carolina.
South Carolina boating rules to know
- Every boat needs a wearable life jacket for each person on board. Children under 12 must wear one on boats shorter than 16 feet, and everyone on a jet ski or being towed must wear one.
- Towing a skier, wakeboarder or tuber requires an observer besides the driver or a wide-angle mirror, and the person being towed must wear a life jacket. Towing isn't allowed between sunset and sunrise.
- Jet skis can't be operated between sunset and sunrise, and the engine cut-off lanyard must be attached to the driver.
- Stay at idle speed within 50 feet of anchored boats, docks and people in the water, and within 100 feet of docks and piers on many of the big reservoirs. Wakesurfing must stay at idle speed within 200 feet of docks, moored boats and swimmers.
Map of Lake Monticello
Lake Monticello rental & boating FAQ
What can I rent at Lake Monticello?
MasterCraft wakesurf and wakeboard boats, Sea-Doo jet skis, water toys like tubes and lily pads, and private boat tours with lessons.
Do I have to tow the boat to Lake Monticello myself?
No. Your rental is ready for you at Lake Monticello, so you don't need a truck or trailer.
Where is Lake Monticello?
In Fairfield County near Jenkinsville, northwest of Columbia.
Can you jet ski on Lake Monticello?
Yes. Jet skiing, waterskiing, wakeboarding and wakesurfing are all popular on Lake Monticello.
How big is Lake Monticello?
About 6,700 acres and up to about 89 feet deep.
Is Lake Monticello good for fishing?
Yes. It's well known in the area for big catfish.