Swap the salty breeze of the coast for the crisp mountain air and embark on a camping adventure at Lake Jocassee. While many visitors flock to South Carolina’s popular coastal destinations like Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Hilton Head Island, they often overlook the stunning lakes nestled within the state’s 32,000 square miles of land. Scattered throughout are remarkable lakes, each boasting inviting campgrounds. If you’re drawn to sparkling turquoise waters and scenic waterfalls, gather your tent and sleeping gear and make your way to Lake Jocassee for a memorable camping experience.
Lake Jocassee covers an expansive 75,000 acres and plunges to depths of 300 feet. Situated in the northwestern corner of South Carolina, this reservoir was created by the impressive 385-foot-tall Jocassee Dam, stretching 1,750 feet in length. The striking blue waters provide an ideal backdrop for a refreshing retreat. Spend your days lounging along the shoreline soaking up the sun, enjoying a refreshing dip, or taking a boat out to fully immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this exquisite lake.
Lake Jocassee, situated within the serene surroundings of Devils Fork State Park in Oconee County, boasts a rich diversity of fish species, including brown trout, bluegill, and white bass. This man-made lake was developed in 1973 through a collaboration between the state and what is now known as Duke Energy. The expansive state park, covering 622 acres, was created nearly 20 years later, opening its doors in 1990.
For those interested in camping on Lake Jocassee, there are two primary campgrounds located along the southern shore. These campgrounds feature a total of 59 well-maintained paved campsites, providing a perfect spot for visitors to immerse themselves in nature.
All of the campsites at Lake Jocassee provide campers with essential amenities, including electrical hookups, water connections, picnic tables, and fire pits. Campgrounds are equipped with restrooms, which feature showers, and conveniently placed trash and recycling bins are available throughout the area. The rates for camping are quite affordable for an overnight stay, though many sites require a minimum reservation of two nights. To book your campsite, you can visit the Devil’s Fork State Park website.
Additionally, several campsites are suitable for RVs, with a maximum length limit of 40 feet.
Spending time outdoors at Lake Jocassee offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and enjoy the stunning mountain lake scenery. For those who may not be avid campers or lack the necessary gear, there are still plenty of alternatives for a relaxing weekend retreat by the lake.
For a more comfortable stay along the shores of Lake Jocassee, Devils Fork State Park provides excellent accommodations that cater to those who prefer a bit more luxury during their getaway.
The park features 20 charming lakeside villas available in two configurations: two-bedroom/one-bathroom and three-bedroom/two-bathroom setups. Each villa is fully equipped with essentials such as linens, kitchen appliances, cooking utensils, and climate control for your comfort. For pet lovers, some of these inviting lodges are also pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friend along on your getaway. Generally, a two-night minimum stay is required when booking the villas; however, during peak seasons, reservations may need to be made for at least seven nights. You can easily secure your stay through the Devils Fork State Park website.
For those eager to enjoy water activities, the park offers rentals of kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and pontoon boats through Eclectic Sun, the on-site outfitting service. Their office is conveniently located just a short 10-minute stroll from the campground.
You can easily book kayaks and other watercraft through the Eclectic Sun website. There’s truly nothing more relaxing than gliding out to the center of a vast lake, surrounded by the sounds of birds chirping, the soft rhythm of water brushing against your kayak, and stunning mountain views with the sun sparkling off the lake’s surface.
Lake Jocassee is fed by several beautiful waterfalls, such as Laurel Fork, Mill Creek, and Moondance Falls, with Laurel Fork Falls being the most favored among visitors.
To reach the impressive 80-foot Laurel Fork Falls, you have two main choices: either paddle a watercraft or embark on a challenging hike. Opting for the hike is the more arduous path, requiring you to traverse the 8.4-mile Foothills Trail, which typically takes about five to six hours one way. A more leisurely alternative is to kayak or canoe from the south shore of the lake to the falls, situated on the northeast side. If you decide to take the hiking route, it’s highly advisable to download the AllTrails app on your mobile device. This handy tool will help you keep track of your journey and ensure you don’t lose your way. We find it incredibly useful and recommend it wholeheartedly.
While Lake Jocassee may not be as well-known as its southern neighbors, Lakes Marion and Murray, it certainly deserves a spot on your itinerary. With its shimmering blue-green waters and breathtaking waterfalls, this lake invites visitors to unwind and soak in the stunning scenery of northern South Carolina. Offering a variety of accommodation options, guests can tailor their stay to suit their preferences.