Lakes
Four spectacular lakes — from crystal mountain waters to the Great Lake of the South
On the Water
Blessed with four wonderful lakes.
Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee are known for pristine waters, endless mountain views, and room for every water activity. At the southern end, Lake Hartwell is one of the Southeast's largest recreation lakes. Hidden away, Lake Tugalo offers a rare slice of solitude.
Arrive Early!
Especially for Lake Jocassee and Lake Keowee. Parking fills by mid-morning on peak days. Devils Fork State Park turns away visitors once full — arrive by 9:30am for the best chance of entry.
4
Scenic Lakes
90K+
Acres of Water
1,400+
Miles of Shoreline
Year Round
Recreation
Lake Jocassee
7,500 acres
Surface Area
90 miles
Shoreline
Nestled in the Blue Ridge foothills, Lake Jocassee is fed by four mountain streams and several waterfalls, keeping its water crystal clear and unusually cool year-round. Holds the world record for Red Eye Bass and state records for Smallmouth Bass, Spotted Bass, Rainbow Trout, and Brown Trout. A paradise for anglers, scuba divers, boat tours, and swimmers. Devils Fork State Park — SC's #1 visited state park — provides access with lakeside villas, camping, boat ramps, and hiking trails.
Arrive by 9:30am — parking fills fast and latecomers are turned away. Check for reservations before visiting.
Lake Keowee
18,500 acres
Surface Area
300 miles
Shoreline
One of the most beloved lakes in the Upstate, Keowee offers endless room for water recreation with 300 miles of shoreline and pristine mountain views. Known for strong populations of Spotted Bass and Crappie. Multiple public access points across the lake including South Cove County Park, High Falls County Park, Mile Creek Park, and more.
Arrive early — parking at boat ramps fills quickly. Do not park in private neighborhoods along the lake.
Lake Hartwell
56,000 acres
Surface Area
962 miles
Shoreline
One of the Southeast's largest and most popular public recreation lakes, Hartwell comprises nearly 56,000 acres with 962 miles of shoreline. THE place to go for trophy Striped Bass, Hybrid Bass, and Catfish. Crappie fishing is also excellent. Lake Hartwell State Park just off I-85 offers camper cabins, 128 camping sites, boat ramps, swimming, and hiking.
Easily accessible off I-85 at the SC/GA border. Great for large groups and families.
Lake Tugalo
575 acres
Surface Area
Scenic mountain coves
Shoreline
A little-known 575-acre gem in the mountainous northwest corner of the region. Fed by the Chattooga and Tallulah Rivers, Tugalo is surrounded by forest-covered foothills. Strict 20HP motor limits keep the lake blissfully serene. Several small waterfalls tumble into the lake. Fish include trout, bass, and walleye. Perfect for paddlers and solo anglers seeking solitude.
The endpoint of the Chattooga Section IV raft run — a memorable arrival.
Ready to Hit the Water?
Pair your lake day with great fishing guides, nearby parks, and mountain town dining.