Spotlight: Lake Keowee
Bring a fishing rod and a thirst for adventure to this South Carolina gem
When viewed on a map or from the air, Lake Keowee in northwestern South Carolina is often said to resemble a Christmas tree. Long, narrow and fringed with shoreline that’s frayed with thousands of branching inland coves, the lake is actually a long and deep valley, one that was flooded after the construction of three massive hydroelectric dams over the course of the 1960s and 70s.
Standing on the shores of this marvelous man-made gem, it’s easy to see why Lake Keowee is such a popular vacation spot for Palmetto State residents and visitors alike.
Spread across more than 18,000 acres and sporting more than 300 miles of shoreline, the lake is a popular destination for anglers, boaters, kayakers, bird watchers and backcountry hikers. To the north rise the rocky summits of Sassafras Mountain and Pinnacle Mountain—the nearest of the Blue Ridge peaks—creating a stunning alpine backdrop. And the comparatively big city of Greenville is less than an hour’s drive away to the east, meaning the luxury and amenity of world-class dining, shopping and entertainment options remains close at hand.
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Lakeside Living
Most will find themselves setting up camp in the towns of Seneca, Walhalla, Clemson or Salem. Each offers their own unique vibe wrapped in heaping dollops of the kind of laid-back charm one would expect from a series of small lakeside communities.
Seneca and Walhalla are particularly worthwhile, and serve as either the homes-of or stepping-stones-to a handful of the most worthwhile attractions in the entire Keowee region.
Anyone with an ear for history won’t want to miss the Oconee Heritage Center or the Museum of the Cherokee, both located in Walhalla. Both places tell the stories of Native Americans through artifacts, art work and superb exhibits.
For More Information
South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism
803-734-1700
www.discoversouthcarolina.com
