Visit Oconee County, SC in Autumn and Enjoy These Top Fall Activities!
1. Fish our lakes and rivers
Fall and winter in Oconee County are prime times to go fishing! Lake Jocassee and Lake Hartwell, along with the Chattooga and Chauga Rivers, are well known to anglers looking to catch trout. Head out alone or go with local fishing guides who will do their best to ensure you have a fresh catch to take home for dinner. We recommend Chattooga River Fly Shop, Jocassee Lake Tours, Jocassee Charters, and Southern Outlaw Adventures.
2. Hike our trails to amazing waterfalls
This time of year is perfect for traipsing through the woods. The forest landscape is ablaze with color, and cooler temperatures mean being active is even more invigorating. There are dozens of hiking trails on public land throughout Oconee County, and many trails will lead you to amazing waterfalls. Issaqueena Falls is one of many destinations that typically puts on a show of autumn hues. It’s a short hike to the falls, which are surrounded by deciduous trees whose leaves are beautiful this time of year. Oconee State Park is in the middle of Sumter National Forest. The park’s trails offer a good place to view colorful foliage.Â
3. Soak up the water scene
Whether you enjoy bundling up for a motor boat ride on one of our lakes or prefer to self-power your own craft on the Chattooga River, it’s a great season to get on the water! This time of year, temperatures are generally mild and pleasant. Public parking areas are less crowded, and the shoreline views from the water are glorious and picturesque. Simply enjoying peace in natural scenic settings makes visiting this time of year especially memorable!
4. Shop our small towns and local markets
Each of our towns have neat and unique places to shop. Walhalla is hosting a Merchant Market where stores will have fall deals and discounts along with food, music and kids activities. With cooler temperatures, we’re more likely to be home indoors, which is comforting especially when surrounded by autumn scents and seasonal treats! Stop by roadside markets in Long Creek, SC for locally grown apples, baked goods and yummy products to take home so you can savor the taste of autumn as long as possible.
5. Enjoy our fall festivals
Westminster hosts October events including Music on Main and the South Carolina Bigfoot Festival which take place downtown on Main Street. The third week of October is when the town of Walhalla celebrates its German heritage with the annual Oktoberfest. This will be the 45th year for the the weekend festival–which takes place at Sertoma Field. Come experience polka music, Bavarian dancers, German beer, arts and craft vendors, carnival rides, fireworks and more! If you’re interested in learning about Walhalla’s German heritage, the Oconee History Museum offers an in depth look at Why We Celebrate: Oktoberfest.
6. Roam around for fall foliage
Beginning in early October, our vast hardwood forests start to shift from green to autumn colors. By the middle of the month, Leaf Lookers are wowed by orange, yellow, and red leaves galore! View our article about fall leaf sightseeing that includes an interactive foliage prediction map and suggested fall leaf driving routes that will lead to roads known for their vibrant views. Even after the leaves have peaked, the forest remains showy and once the leaves have fallen you’ll be able to see further through the trees.
7. Let loose in Long Creek
Spend an afternoon getting a taste of Life in Long Creek where you’ll be surrounded by national forest. Book a zipline adventure with Chattooga Ridge Canopy Tours for a chance to see the colors up close and personal. If you’re in town on the weekend, don’t miss lunch and the scenic view at Chattooga Belle Farm! If time allows, stop by the Distillery to sample their selection of seasonal spirits made from fruit grown on the farm. Willie’s Tavern, over at Chattooga River Lodge is a comfortable atmosphere and they often have live music.
8. Fill Your Belly
Hungry? There are a delightful mix of dining spots, throughout Oconee County, where you can indulge in both savory meals and sweet treats. You can enjoy classic Southern comfort food or grab a quick bite at a family-owned diner that’s been serving the community for years. Don’t miss the local ice cream shops and artisanal bakeries for their decadent cakes, pies, and pastries—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a day of exploring the scenic sights.
9. Patronize the Arts
Fall is a super time to slow down and appreciate artistic places. End of the Road Studios, Gateway Arts Center, Blue Ridge Arts Center and The Gift SC all feature the work of talented local artisans. You can create your own itinerary with self guided drives to see large-scale works of art along Oconee’s Mural Trail or the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail. Gateway Arts Center in Westminster, and The Blue Ridge Arts Center in Seneca, both offer exhibits and classes with seasonal focus. For those who enjoy musical entertainment, Walhalla Performing Arts Center has a great lineup of music coming this fall. Check our Events page to see a wide variety of things planned in Oconee County, SC.
10. Come stay somewhere cozy
Chilly weather means there are fewer people, fewer bugs, and more reasons to be outdoors! Pitch a tent or park your RV at one of the terrific county parks or state parks located in Oconee County. Or snuggle up at one of our unique stays where you can spend the night(s) and play longer! It’s amazing how many cool places you’ll find to rent for the weekend throughout Oconee County. Tree houses, lake houses, mountain cabins, sunny retreats, and more.Â