As the crisp fall air settles in and the leaves around Lake Murray start to change into beautiful shades of red, orange, and gold, there's no better way to embrace the season than by hosting a fall-themed lakeside BBQ. Whether you're planning a gathering with friends, family, or neighbors, the peaceful backdrop of Lake Murray combined with delicious fall flavors makes for a memorable outdoor celebration. Here’s how to plan the perfect fall-themed BBQ at Lake Murray.

1. Choose the Perfect Lakeside Spot

Setting the Scene

When hosting a lakeside BBQ at Lake Murray, location is everything. If you’re staying at a lake house with a private dock or deck, you already have the perfect venue. For those visiting the area, Lake Murray’s many parks and picnic areas offer excellent spots for an outdoor gathering.

Ideal Locations:

• Private Dock or Deck: If you're staying at our 5-bedroom chalet, you'll have access to a spacious deck and private dock, providing an ideal spot for hosting a BBQ. The peaceful lake view adds a serene ambiance that makes your BBQ feel extra special.
• Dreher Island State Park: This park offers plenty of picnic tables and grills right by the lake, perfect for hosting a BBQ with scenic views of the water and fall foliage.
• Lake Murray Dam Picnic Area: Another popular option, this area offers open spaces and stunning sunset views over the lake, providing a beautiful setting for your fall gathering.

2. Plan a Seasonal Menu

Embrace Fall Flavors

A fall-themed BBQ wouldn’t be complete without incorporating the delicious flavors of the season. Think warm spices, hearty sides, and seasonal produce to create a menu that captures the essence of autumn. Here are some menu ideas to inspire your fall lakeside BBQ.

Main Course:

• Grilled Apple Cider BBQ Chicken: Marinate your chicken in apple cider, garlic, and rosemary, then grill to perfection for a flavorful fall twist.
• Pumpkin Spice Ribs: Coat ribs with a pumpkin spice rub and slow cook on the grill for a unique fall take on BBQ ribs.
• Burgers with Caramelized Onions and Smoked Gouda: Elevate classic burgers with the rich, smoky flavors of caramelized onions and smoked gouda cheese.

Sides:

• Grilled Vegetables: Use seasonal veggies like sweet potatoes, squash, and brussels sprouts. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill them for a delicious and healthy side dish.
• Butternut Squash Salad: Serve a fall-inspired salad with roasted butternut squash, cranberries, goat cheese, and toasted pecans.
• Maple Bacon Baked Beans: Add a sweet, smoky twist to classic baked beans by mixing in maple syrup and crispy bacon.

Desserts:

• S'mores Bar: Set up a lakeside fire pit for toasting marshmallows and let guests make their own s’mores. For a seasonal touch, include pumpkin spice marshmallows and caramel squares.
• Apple Crisp: Prepare individual servings of apple crisp in foil packets and place them on the grill to warm them up. Serve with vanilla ice cream for the perfect fall treat.

3. Create a Cozy, Fall-Inspired Atmosphere

Set the Mood with Seasonal Decor

Decorating your lakeside BBQ with fall-inspired touches can help create a warm and cozy atmosphere that complements the beauty of the season. You don’t need to go overboard—simple, rustic decorations can transform your space into the ultimate fall retreat.

Easy Decor Ideas:

• Fall Colors: Use tablecloths, napkins, and plates in fall hues like deep reds, oranges, and browns to bring the season’s colors into your decor.
• Pumpkins and Gourds: Scatter small pumpkins, gourds, and fall flowers like mums around the picnic area or deck for a seasonal touch.
• Lanterns and String Lights: As the sun sets, light up the area with lanterns, string lights, or candles in mason jars to create a cozy and inviting ambiance.
• Blanket Stations: Set up a basket filled with cozy blankets for guests to use as the temperature cools in the evening.

4. Plan Fun Fall Activities

Keep Guests Entertained

Hosting a fall BBQ at Lake Murray is not just about the food; it’s also about creating lasting memories. Plan a few fun fall-themed activities that your guests can enjoy while taking in the beautiful lakeside surroundings.

Activity Ideas:

• Pumpkin Decorating: Set up a pumpkin decorating station with small pumpkins, paints, and craft supplies for both kids and adults to enjoy.
• Lakeside Lawn Games: Bring along classic lawn games like cornhole, horseshoes, or ladder toss. These are perfect for friendly competition and keeping guests entertained.
• Fall Photo Booth: Create a simple fall-themed photo booth with hay bales, pumpkins, and fall foliage. Your guests can take fun photos with the lake in the background, capturing memories of your BBQ.
• Fire Pit and Marshmallow Roasting: If you have access to a fire pit, light a fire as the evening cools and let guests roast marshmallows or enjoy the warmth while sharing stories by the lake.

5. Drinks to Keep Everyone Warm

Serve Fall-Inspired Beverages

Don’t forget the drinks! Keep your guests warm and happy with a selection of fall-inspired beverages that can be served hot or cold. You can even set up a DIY drink station so guests can help themselves.

Drink Ideas:

• Apple Cider Bar: Serve warm apple cider in a crockpot with cinnamon sticks and an optional bourbon or rum add-on for adults.
• Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate: For a family-friendly option, offer pumpkin spice hot chocolate with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Fall Sangria: Mix together apple cider, white wine, cinnamon sticks, and sliced seasonal fruit like apples and pears for a refreshing fall sangria.
• Spiked Hot Toddies: For those chilly fall evenings, warm up with a classic hot toddy made with honey, lemon, and your favorite whiskey or bourbon.

6. Watch the Sunset and Relax

End the Evening in Fall Style

As your fall-themed BBQ winds down, take some time to relax with your guests and enjoy the peaceful lakeside atmosphere. Watch the sunset over Lake Murray as the sky turns shades of orange and pink, signaling the end of a perfect fall day. As the temperatures cool, gather around the fire pit, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the company of friends and family under the stars.

Host Your Fall BBQ at Lake Life South Carolina

There’s no better place to host a fall-themed lakeside BBQ than at Lake Murray, where the stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for your seasonal celebration. Whether you’re gathering with family, friends, or neighbors, fall is the perfect time to enjoy good food, great company, and the beauty of the lake.

Stay with Us

Make your fall lakeside BBQ even more special by staying at our luxurious 5-bedroom chalet at Lake Life South Carolina. With a spacious deck, private dock, and stunning views of Lake Murray, our chalet is the perfect spot for hosting an unforgettable fall gathering. Book directly through our website at Lake Life South Carolina Bookings, or find us on Airbnb and VRBO.

Plan your fall BBQ at Lake Murray and experience the beauty and charm of the season in the perfect lakeside setting!