One of the best things about living in Upstate SC is how close we are to so many lakes. With summer in full swing, people are looking for a place to cool off and relax and what better place is there than the lake!
Whether you enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, boating, or just laying out in the sun, we compiled a list of some of the best lakes in the Upstate to spend your day at.
Upstate South Carolina’s Best Lakes
Lake Jocassee
Probably the most famous lake in the Upstate, Lake Jocassee is known for its super clear, blue water! There is a large swimming area, a sandy beach to tan on, and 2 picnic areas! The park also has 3 public boat ramps. If you enjoy fishing, the lake is one of the best places to go trout fishing in South Carolina. The only public access to Jocassee is through Devils Fork State Park; there is an admission fee to enter the park, children 5 and under are free. There are many islands spread throughout the lake that are only accessible by boat but if you can get to one, it’s a great place to go swimming! Be on the lookout for scuba divers who are exploring the flooded town below the lake.
Lake Keowee
South of Lake Jocassee you will find Lake Keowee. Keowee is 26 miles long and along its shore, you will find many beaches. High Falls County Park and South Cove County Park are two of the most popular swimming locations on the lake; there is a $2 parking fee at both locations. There are many hiking trails in Keowee-Toxaway State Park that lead you along the lakeshore; swimming is permitted but there are no lifeguards, so swim with caution. The park also has a kayak/canoe access point where you can launch your non-motorized vessels. The closest boat ramp for motorized vessels is five miles from the park.
Lake Hartwell
Lake Harwell sits on the border of South Carolina and Georgia, right next to Clemson. If you are looking to swim in the lake, 12 Mile Recreation Area is the place to be; its long sandy beach and playground areas make it the perfect place to bring your kids. If you head down I-85, you will find Lake Hartwell State Park. The park has 2 boat ramps and a few grilling areas; swimming is permitted but there is no designated area. The park has no boat rentals, so you either need to bring your own or go across the border to Georgia and visit Harbor Light Marina.
Lake Placid
Lake Placid is the closest lake to Greenville SC with a designated swimming area. Access to the lake, which is located in Paris Mountain State Park, is included in the park admission fee. The park has a few other lakes within its borders but they are not for swimming. You can rent kayaks at the park for a small fee but you can not bring your own boat into the park; no motorized boats are allowed on any of the lakes in the park.
Lake Pinnacle
Lake Pinnacle lies at the base of Table Rock Mountain, giving it a spectacular view of the mountain! The lake offers many amenities such as boat rentals, picnic shelters, bathrooms, and many hiking trails. This 36-acre lake has a swimming area for those who want to cool off during the summer. The park also has a diving board but it is only open when there is a lifeguard on duty. You can rent fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats on Lake Pinnacle. If you’d like to use your own boat at the park, you must head over to Lake Oolenoy and use the boat ramp there. Gas motors are prohibited but the use of an electric trolling motor is allowed.
We hope this list helps you decide which lake to spend your next weekend at!
Are you thinking about making a trip to the ocean? Read our blog on The Closest Beaches to Upstate SC.
If there are any great lakes in the Upstate that we missed, please let us know by leaving a comment down below.
