Bordered on both sides by the Clemson Experimental Forest, this section is very beginner friendly. This section is the upper reach of Lake Hartwell where the Twelve Mile River enters the lake.  Paddling conditions are flatwater.

Put in is located upstream of Madden Bridge Road, river right.  A future park will be located downstream of this bridge, river-right.  A small off-road parking area and limited roadside parking are available upstream of the road on river-right. A 500-foot trail leads to a small sandy beach along the lake.  Paddling this stretch is flatwater. After putting in at Madden Bridge Road, paddlers will see clear, wide channels.  After crossing under the SC Highway 133 bridge, the Twelve Mile Recreation Area will be river-left, about 0.3 miles downstream of the bridge.  Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the park has a boat launch, playground, picnic shelters, and restrooms.  Swimming at your own risk is allowed and fishing is permitted. There is a parking fee of $4 from March 1 - October 31; $3 boat launching fee from November 1 - February 29.  Picnic shelters can be reserved in advance for $40. (each). Do not consume fish caught in the Twelve Mile River or upper reaches of Lake Hartwell due to a PCB Advisory still in effect.