Planning your summer vacation? Or maybe thinking of getting away for a weekend? With so many stay-cation options right here in South Carolina, it can be hard to decide from among the great choices. But we’ve got just the place for you! Lake Jocassee, S.C., located within the Blue Ridge Escarpment and the world-acclaimed Jocassee Gorges, offers an outdoor adventure like no other.

In 2012, National Geographic declared the Jocassee Gorges to be "One of the World's Last Great Places."
TripAdvisor/Trudy C
Spend any time at all at this spring-fed mountain lake in South Carolina and you'll agree!
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The lake is part of the Jocassee Gorges tract, which is comprised of approximately 43,500 acres that extends from the upstate of South Carolina into North Carolina.
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The area is home to the second highest rainfall amounts in the U.S. The runoff from all that rain can be seen daily on the lake.
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Hidden waterfalls pour down the steep mountain grades that encapsulate the lake. Most can only be discovered by way of boat access.
Flickr/ Stephen Taylor

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The high rainfall and steep terrain provide some one-of-a-kind adventures in the Palmetto State. From Devil's Fork State Park in Salem, you can launch a boat to explore all that Jocassee has to offer. Kayak and canoe rentals through an outside vendor are also available at the park.
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For an adventure like no other, visit the one spot in South Carolina that National Geographic says is "a destination of a lifetime."
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Trust us; you won't be disappointed.
I can personally attest to just how beautiful this spot in South Carolina truly is. During my first Lake Jocassee visit with my family, we took a waterfalls tour by boat with a local service, one of the best things to do at Lake Jocassee.
AnneMarie/OIYS
The majestic mountain backdrop seen while on the lake can leave you in awe, speechless.
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In my opinion, the best time to visit Lake Jocassee is late spring into early summer before it gets to the hottest part of the season for South Carolina. Just don't forget to pack some great sunscreen!
South Carolina Living/Facebook

The best place to find public access for Lake Jocassee, S.C. is at Devil’s Fork State Park. The park is located at 161 Holcombe Circle, Salem, SC 29676.

Love chasing waterfalls? We’re betting you’ve never done it on horseback! Discover the horseback waterfall tour in South Carolina that’s simply amazing!

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Lake Jocassee, S.C. & Related Info

AnneMarie | April 06, 2024

What are the best outdoor adventures in South Carolina?

South Carolina is a wonderful place for outdoor adventures, and some of our favorites include:

  • Big Water Marina & Campground – The RV Campground with a splash island water zone, a kid zone, and a restaurant
  • The Hulk – A 7-mile bike path named after one of your favorite childhood superheroes
  • Hitchcock Woods – An attraction where you’ll find South Carolina’s miniature Grand Canyon
  • Riding a seakart – A unique adventure on the water in Murrells Inlet
  • An adventure at any of our beautiful state parks

 

Find more of the best outdoor adventures in South Carolina.

Which state parks should I visit in South Carolina?

You really can’t go wrong with a visit to any of the 47 state parks in South Carolina, so deciding on one really depends more on what it is you’re looking to do or see for this visit. Some of our recommendations include:

  • Oconee State Park – The most remote state park, perfect for a weekend escape
  • Hunting Island State Park – Features a lighthouse and oceanside camping
  • Santee State Park – Sleep in cabins over the water
  • Caesars Head State Park – Hike to the state’s tallest waterfall
  • Keowee Toxaway State Park – Enjoy over five miles of hiking trails.

 

Explore more of South Carolina’s state parks.

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Lake Jocassee, United States