Lauded in 2012 by National Geographic as one of the “last great places in the world,” the Jocassee Gorges which occupy part of both North and South Carolina are certainly worthy of the praise. And found within the gorges, Lake Jocassee is particularly stunning. With steeply rising mountains all around the lake, this spot feels even more secluded than ever. And with crystal clear waters that fill the lake via the many waterfalls that carry fresh, cold mountain water into the lake, it’s a dream to visit in the heat of the summer.
Nowhere else in South Carolina can you find the pristine paradise found all around Lake Jocassee.
Access to the lake, however, is primarily allocated to private property owners. But there is one place you can go to enjoy the spoils of this cold water mountain lake: Devils Fork State Park in Salem, South Carolina.
The park is home to a swim beach, complete with pristine sand. It also has a marina (where you can rent boats), two campgrounds, and incredible cabin rentals.