Outdoors
Opportunities galore for exploring outdoors…
In Oconee County, SC the great outdoors includes access to 200+ miles of trails, 29 waterfalls, 200,000 acres of Sumter National Forest, 4 lakes, 4 state parks and 3 county parks!
Travel Tip:
ARRIVE EARLY
Especially if you are coming to enjoy a day on Lake Jocassee or Lake Keowee.
Parking at lake public access points is limited.
Devils Fork State Park–the only public access for Lake Jocassee–is a very popular destination. Depending on the season, the parking lot gets full early in the day. If you’re not there by 9:30AM, you will likely be turned away.
Roads near Lake Keowee have been experiencing heavy traffic. We strongly discourage parking in private neighborhoods along the lake.
Note: The restaurants listed below offer outside seating.
Fall Creek Falls
Multiple falls range from 30 to 40 ft. within a 1-mile stretch. A long, steep, but not dangerous 2-mile hike made more difficult during spring and summer by foliage. Best viewing is in winter. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.82246 W 083.25079
Fishski Business, LLC
Guided fishing on Lake Hartwell and Lake Jocassee with Captain Steve Pietrykowski. Hartwell is a great choice for families or even a corporate outing. Multiple fishing boats for large groups can be arranged. Captain Steve offers day and night guided fishing on Lake Jocassee, which is the only major lake in South Carolina that has an abundant trout population.
Foothills Trail
This National Recreation Trail has its southern terminus in Oconee State Park and extends to the north and east for 77 miles. Sections very in length and difficulty. Day-hikers can access the trail from different points; thru-hikers can spend a week backcountry hiking on the trail. Maintained by the Foothills Trail Conservancy.
Forest Spring Family Campground
A well-kept campground surrounded by peaceful serenity that offers 30 spacious campsites. Daily, weekly and monthly campsites all with full hook-ups either 30 AMP or 50 AMP. Handicapped-accessible heated bathhouse, free WiFi, playground, sites have fire pit and picnic table, exercise room, Camp Store. Also available: 9 rustic cabins that are furnished and handicapped-accessible to sleep 1-4 people.
Fork Mountain Trail
6.4 mile trail, a spur of the Foothills Trail, starts in SC at the Sloan Bridge Picnic Area and ends in NC where it joins the Bad Creek Trail in the Ellicott Rock Wilderness Area. From there the trail eventually joins the Chattooga Trail and continues to Burrell’s Ford. The trail weaves along the northern flanks of Fork Mountain through numerous coves and ravines. At the junction with Bad Creek Trail you can return, or extend your hike 1.3 miles to historic Ellicott Rock.
Go Fish!
Go Fish! is fishing area (pay lake) located near Seneca and Westminster, South Carolina
Grapevine
Primitive campsites that are first-come, first-served. Good for car camping, but doesn’t have amenities or facilities. Grapevine is located at the end of Forest Service Road 764, off of Chattooga Ridge Road (approximately 1.4 miles south of intersection with Whetstone Road.)
Hampton Inn & Suites
The Hampton Inn & Suites Seneca-Clemson Area is just a short drive from numerous local restaurants and golf courses and many beautiful lakes, state parks, and waterfalls. Seneca attractions including Clemson University, Lake Hartwell, the World of Energy and the Blue Ridge Mountains are easily accessible.
Hidden Falls
Near the head of the Foothills Trail, this 50 ft. waterfall over granite ledges can be reached with a moderate, one-hour hike. Best show of waterfall occurs after a rain. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.863309 W 083.09820
High Falls Boat Rentals, LLC
Need a boat for a day or a week? High Falls Boat Rentals has pontoon and ski boats for rent on Lake Keowee.
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All boats are equipped with USCG required safety equipment, anchors, bimini tops, depth finders, fenders and dock lines. Tubes and water skis are also available for rent.
High Falls County Park
46 acre park located on the shores of beautiful Lake Keowee. There are 91 campsites with 10 being waterfront; two boat ramps; 3 rental buildings/shelters; playground; picnic tables with charcoal grills; swimming area; restroom; miniature golf; tennis and basketball courts; volleyball; fishing pier and more. $3 park entry for cars; $5 fee for boats and trailers.
