If you’ve lived in the Palmetto State very long, you know that there are plenty of amazing parks that are wonderful for camping in South Carolina. The one we’re featuring today is particularly lovely: Devils Fork State Park camping in Oconee County, SC. It’s tucked away on the shores of beautiful Lake Jocassee near Salem, and it’s easily one of the most beautiful campgrounds in South Carolina. Let’s take a closer look at Devil’s Fork Campground in SC:

Lake Jocassee is a man-made reservoir nestled within a canyon. It's one of the most stunning mountain lakes in South Carolina. In all, the lake spans 7,500 acres - some spots are more than 300 feet deep!
TripAdvisor/David C
Devils Fork Campground is carved into the natural landscape. The tent sites have been leveled and filled with soft earth and sand for an optimal camping experience.
Tom K/Google Local
Imagine waking up in the morning to this view that is just steps away! Lake Jocassee is known for its pristine water. Much of it comes down from mountain springs, so not only is it clear, but it's also much cooler than most lakes in South Carolina.
Yelp/Kelly T
There's also a second campground at Devils Fork State Park. Tent campers will love the added bonus at this campground: a boat-in-only campground located on a small island that's not too far from shore!
Cory Smith/Google Local
Kayakers, paddle boarders, and canoers alike all love Lake Jocassee for the adventures that are available on this crystal clear lake.
TripAdvisor/JimmyJ
You never know what's around the corner.
YouTube/Discover South Carolina

Related Stories

This Amazing Lakeside Campground In South Carolina Has Its Own Lazy River You'll Absolutely Love

This Amazing Lakeside Campground In South Carolina Has Its Own Lazy River You'll Absolutely Love

 8 Spectacular Spots In South Carolina Where You Can Camp Right On The Beach

8 Spectacular Spots In South Carolina Where You Can Camp Right On The Beach

 This Waterpark Campground In South Carolina Belongs At The Top Of Your Bucket List

This Waterpark Campground In South Carolina Belongs At The Top Of Your Bucket List
There are several waterfalls you'll only see if you paddle to them or take a waterfall tour offered by some of the boat rental companies, which is what we did the first time we visited this state park.
Flickr/amytrippmyers
Several of the tent sites in the "mainland" campground are hike-in, but there's a paved path most of the way. Campers and RVs are also welcome and there are perfect sites for them, too.
TripAdvisor/bobditch
The main lakeside campground offers 59 paved sites with water and electrical hook-ups. Some of these sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet.
AnneMarie/OIYS
My family camped here during the Christmas holiday in 2023, and we had such a lovely time! It's less crowded during this time of year, so we had many options of campsites to choose from and were able to reserve one of the best right by the water with incredible views.
Get there early, set up camp, and then hit one of the two trails here at Devils Fork State Park. In spring, the Oconee Bell Loop is rich with spring blooms.
alltrails.com/IrishHeartbeat P
With so much to see and do, this stunning mountain escape is absolutely perfect for a "staycation" at any time of year.
TripAdvisor/Katie B
My children have enjoyed swimming in Lake Jocassee when we have visited this state park.
Are you more of a glamper than a camper? Devils Fork Campground in SC even has lakeside cabins that you can rent. The lake views are gorgeous!
Flickr/Mike Burton
I have stayed in a cabin at this state park in the past for my daughter's birthday celebration. We loved the cabin and the big screened porch with beautiful views of the lake.
Devils Fork State Park offers the only public access to Lake Jocassee. If you're a day visitor, you may experience long waits just to enter the park on the weekends. But if you're already enjoying Devils Fork State Park camping, you don't have to worry about the wait!
Yelp/Karen L

 

Check out this great video from Devils Fork State Park:

With pristine water, two campgrounds, cabins, kayak, and paddleboard rentals, and a view that literally tops them all, this park just may have the most beautiful places for camping in South Carolina! Have you camped here yet? We’d love to know about your experience in our comments!

To learn more about South Carolina State Park camping at Devils Fork, check out the South Carolina State Parks website. Interested in RV camping but haven’t gotten your own RV yet? Try it out by renting one through RVShare.com!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Devils Fork State Park Camping & Related Info

AnneMarie | February 08, 2024

What are the most unique places to spend the night in South Carolina?

When you are looking for a memorable getaway, the Palmetto State offers an abundance of one-of-a-kind stays:

  • On the banks of the Edisto River vacationers can spend the night sleeping among the treetops at the Edisto River Treehouse. This unique spot has top-notch amenities and incomparable scenic views.
  • In North Augusta, take a step back in time at Rosemary Inn where guests experience Victorian-style lodging surrounded by the classic glamor of the Old South.
  • Located in Greenville’s charming historic district, the Pettigru Place is a stunning red-brick nestled in a gorgeous setting and is considered to be among the prettiest places to stay Upstate.

 

What places in South Carolina should I see before I die?

Our state’s variety of scenic landscapes and fascinating history make it easy to discover amazing destinations to explore South Carolina’s unique local cultures:

  • One of the most highly regarded vineyards located within our borders is Victoria Valley Vineyards. This stunning spot is well known as an excellent producer of European Vinifera wines and touring the grounds feels like you’ve been transported to an old French vineyard.
  • The Hunting Island Lighthouse dates back to 1859 and is the only publicly accessible lighthouse in South Carolina. Located in the breathtakingly beautiful Hunting Island State Park, this significant historical structure offers visitors incomparable scenic views from its observation deck. You just have to climb 167 stairs to get there!

 

Can I camp right on the water in South Carolina?

While Devils Fork may be the most beautiful campground in South Carolina, it's not the only campsite with waterfront views. State Parks across all regions of South Carolina offer an exciting variety of campgrounds, cabins, and unique outdoor stays in idyllic waterfront settings. Whether you are a fan of rugged primitive camps or lean more towards the amenities of glamping, there are plenty of campgrounds in South Carolina to meet everyone’s needs:

  • Edisto Beach State Park has a wealth of recreational outdoor activities and is a beloved spot for camping along the stretch of 1.5 miles of shell-strewn sandy beach.
  • The amazing amenities of Ocean Lakes in Myrtle Beach make for an unforgettable camping adventure. This park is perfect for a family vacation and features a water park, mini-golf course, game center, and large pool as well as an abundance of natural activities.

Related Articles

Explore South Carolina

Featured Addresses
Devils Fork State Park, 161 Holcombe Cir, Salem, SC 29676, USA