Parks open at Lake Murray for spring season

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — It’s time for spring fun on Lake Murray.

South Carolina Electric & Gas Co. has opened up its public parks on the Lexington and Irmo sides of the dam at the lake for the 2013 season.

The boat-launching park on the Irmo side is now open through Labor Day. The beach and recreation area on the Lexington side is open through mid-September.

The parks are open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. until May 4. After that, they’re open until 8 p.m. Weekend and holiday hours are from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.

The public boat launch has two ramps and is open 24 hours a day. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited, and restrooms and picnic facilities are available.