Nothing marks the start of summer like a dip in the water. Whether you’re getting your toes wet in the ocean, a river, a lake, or a swimming pool, it’s all good. We’ve lined up some little known swimming holes in South Carolina for this list. Pick your preference, get the crew together, and then make it happen.

1. Chau Ram County Park
Facebook/Chau Ram County Park
Nothing beats a good old-fashioned waterfall swimming hole in South Carolina! You'll find the perfect one with easy access at this county park. Mix up your swimming time with a hike or two along one of the trails. There's another swimming hole here also - just under the bridge. Chau Ram County Park just may be one of the best kept secrets in South Carolina. More information is included in #1 on this list in this previously published article.

Address: 1220 Chau Ram Park Road, Westminster, SC, 29693
2. Hickory Knob State Park
South Carolina Parks
Hickory Knob State Park may be one of the best kept secrets in the state - and for more reasons than just an in-ground swimming pool. But you have to admit, it does look pretty relaxing. In season, campground and cabin guests at this state park have a cool pass to this amazing oasis. Or, if you prefer fresh water, you can always swim in the river. More information is included in this previously published article.

Address: 1591 Resort Drive, McCormick, SC, 29835
3. Lake Jocassee (via Devils Fork State Park)
lake swimming hole in south carolina
Trover/Chelsea Rosen
This cold water lake in South Carolina dishes up endless opportunities to get outside and to get IN the water. From swimming in the water to getting on TOP of the water, this mountain creek and spring-fed lake has some of the most pristine, clear water in the state. More information is included in this previously published article.

Address: 161 Holcombe Circle, Salem, SC, 29676

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4. Little-known Beaches
Flickr/Matt Sledge
Hit one of these little known beaches in South Carolina for some fun in the sun and sand. It may be difficult to believe, but not all of our beaches are crowded with visitors. The Palmetto State has a number of pristine beaches that have little development and much in the way of natural charm. Check out seven of those hidden gems in the following link. More information is included in this previously published article.
5. Lake Placid (via Paris Mountain State Park)
TripAdvisor/275GTS
A swim in Lake Placid, Greenville's hidden gem just outside of town, is a fun time for the whole family. This lake is located inside Paris Mountain State Park, and there's a lifeguard on duty at certain times. You'll find the lifeguard schedule on the parks' website here. If it's been a while since you visited this amazing state park, this summer is your chance to see exactly what you've been missing! More information about this park is included in this previously published article.

Address: 2401 State Park Road, Greenville, SC, 29609
6. Hidden Beaches
hidden beach swimming hole in south carolina
TripAdvisor/SavantIII
Let's face it, some beaches are more work to get to than others. It's amazing how empty a beach will be when you have to lug all your gear for half a mile or more to get there. But the peace and quiet are totally worth it. The now temporarily inaccessible Botany Bay is a prime example. Thanks to Hurricane Matthew, Botany Bay is the most secluded beach on the South Carolina coast this year. And then there's this one, Mitchelville Beach on Hilton Head Island. You have to know where it is and how to find it. And the payoff is a quiet, secluded paradise you'll share with only a handful of people. More information is included in this previously published article.
7. Waterfall Campground (via Jones Gap State Park)
TripAdvisor/Kristin S
This magical campground at Jones Gap State Park is home to several opportunities for water play. A hike (warning, it's a strenuous hike) to Rainbow Falls will land you at the base of a free-falling 100-foot waterfall where you're certain to enjoy some splash or mist action. The Middle Saluda River also flows through this gorgeous park, offering opportunities to dip your toes in some cold mountain spring water. If you want to spend the night, there are several hike-in camp sites available where you'll awaken to the soothing sounds of the Middle Saluda River only steps from your tent. More information is included in this previously published article.

Address: 303 Jones Gap Road, Marietta, SC, 29661

When temps soar, sometimes the best way to cool off is with a dip in the water. What are some of your favorite swimming holes in South Carolina?

For more outdoor summer fun in South Carolina, take this Hidden Beaches Road Trip.

 

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Swimming Holes In South Carolina

Robin Jarvis | July 08, 2019

What is the cleanest lake in South Carolina?

Lake Jocassee, a man-made reservoir located in the Upstate of South Carolina, is widely lauded for its crystal clear, pristine waters. The lake and the Jocassee Gorge in South Carolina were named in National Geographic's list featuring 50 of the World's Last Great Places. After one visit to Lake Jocassee, you'll fall in love with this mountain paradise.

Does South Carolina have any natural inland lakes?

All of the major lakes in South Carolina are man-made reservoirs, however, the state does have natural ponds.  The largest of the lakes is Lake Marion, with a surface of 171.2 square miles.

What is the only state with no natural lakes?

Maryland seems to be the only state in the US with no natural lakes, but it does have natural ponds.

What state has the least amount of lakes?

Second to Maryland, West Virginia has only one natural lake. Called Trout Pond, the lake's modest surface area fluctuates between two and three acres. Trout Pond in West Virginia is located in Hardy County in the town of Wardensville.

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