Walhalla State Fish Hatchery Tour — Mountain Rest, South Carolina

Discover the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery Tour in South Carolina

Located near Mountain Rest in the Blue Ridge foothills of South Carolina, the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery Tour offers visitors an educational look into fish propagation, conservation, and aquatic resource management. This guided experience focuses on how trout and other fish are raised, maintained, and released to support fisheries across the state.

Why it’s special:
This is not a factory tour—it’s a behind-the-scenes look at state-run environmental infrastructure. Visitors learn how hatcheries play a critical role in conservation, outdoor recreation, and ecosystem balance, all within a scenic mountain setting.

History/Story of Walhalla State Fish Hatchery

Operated by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery has served as a cornerstone of the state’s fisheries program for decades. The facility supports trout stocking programs and fisheries research, helping maintain healthy fish populations in South Carolina’s rivers and streams, particularly in the Upstate region.

What You’ll See & Do on the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery Tour

• Tour a working state fish hatchery

• Learn how fish eggs are incubated and hatched

• See raceways, tanks, and water systems used to raise fish

• Understand feeding, growth, and release processes

• Learn how hatcheries support conservation and recreational fishing

Hands-On Elements: Educational explanations and facility walkthroughs
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in most outdoor areas
Souvenirs & Extras: Educational materials provided; no retail shop

Pricing of the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery Tour

Tours are free of charge.
Advance scheduling is required.

Visiting information

Duration: Approximately 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided educational tour
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered year-round by appointment
Audience: Families, students, anglers, conservation enthusiasts
Accessibility: Partially accessible; outdoor areas and uneven terrain
Safety & Restrictions: Follow staff instructions around water systems
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: School and group tours welcome with advance booking
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes; weather-appropriate clothing
Facilities: Visitor restrooms, parking
Closures & Downtime: Tours may pause during operational needs or severe weather
Working hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (tours by appointment only)

Nearby

• Oconee State Park

• Chattooga River

• Mountain Rest scenic areas

FAQs About Visiting Walhalla State Fish Hatchery

Is this a factory tour?
No. This is an educational tour of a state-run conservation facility.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Tours are offered by appointment only.

Is the hatchery still operational?
Yes. Fish are actively raised and managed on-site.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. The tour is family-friendly and educational.

Can I fish at the hatchery?
Fishing is not permitted on hatchery grounds.