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COME HOME TO OCONEE COUNTY
Enjoy yourself Read a book in the hammock Get lost in the woods Or at the spa Enjoy breakfast on the balcony Sleep in Take a hike Go mountain biking Make memories Take pictures & naps Laugh out loud Savor a sunset boat ride Be with family Go horseback riding Enjoy a round of golf Make new friends Have afternoon tea Learn to fly fish Smell the roses And the forest after a rain Go bare footed Ride a motorcycle up the mountain Go camping Raft a river Enjoy outdoor music Make s’mores Just relax In
OCONEE COUNTY SOUTH CAROLINA’S FRESHWATER COAST
Home of the National Wild & Scenic Chattooga River, SC National Heritage Corridor Scenic Highways and so much more...
www.oconeesc.com | www.experienceoconee.com www.scmountainlakes.com | www.InvestOconeeSC.com
Oconee County, South Carolina
DISCOVER OCONEE
T
he pristine waters of lakes Jocassee, Keowee and Hartwell, nestled under the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, are some of the best in the Southeast. The National Wild and Scenic Chattooga River was given special designation by the United States Congress in 1974 because of its special characteristics and geologic and cultural values. More than 150 waterfalls grace the escarpment of the Mountain Lakes Region. Oconee County is in the northwestern corner of South Carolina, known as the Mountain Lakes Region because of its climate, its spectacularly beautiful lakes and the beauty of its Blue Ridge Mountains. Today, outdoor recreation, adventure travel and family “together time� are eagerly sought by tourists, and Oconee County offers the perfect setting for an affordable vacation for active families, couples and retirees.
Lake Jocassee photo by Al Ward
#SCMOUNTAINLAKES Photo by Debbie Darby
FREE MAP INSERT
Table Of Contents 7 Traveling to Oconee County 8 Destination Of A Lifetime: Jocassee Gorges 11 Waterfalls 18 The Sumter National Forest: Andrew Pickens Ranger District 20 Parks 22 Hiking 27 Lakes 31 Dive Lake Jocassee 32 Rivers 34 Whitewater rafting on the Chattooga 36 Fishing 42 Biking 44 Gather 50 Cities and Towns 61 Relax 66 Eat 73 Celebrate 79 History 83 Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail 84 Arts and Culture 86 Agricultural Tourism 89 Play 93 Relocate 94 Oconee County Quick Facts
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Oconee County - South Carolina
Cover photo courtesy of Pam Nafziger casualmomentsphotography.com Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau Ken Sloan President/CEO 105 W.S. Broad St. Walhalla, South Carolina 29691 877.Mt.Lakes 877.685.2537 Info@SCMountainLakes.com The Journal Jerry Edwards Publisher 210 W.N. First St. Seneca, South Carolina 29678 For ad sales call: (864) 882-2375 or visit us at www.upstatetoday.com
The Journal
Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau Guide • © 2016 CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 5
Creating Community through People, Parks and Programs Stay & Play In Our Parks! We offer over 200 campsites in our three beautiful county parks. Electricity and water at each site, friendly staff, clean restrooms, hiking trails, playgrounds, Lake Keowee and Chauga River access, tent only areas as well as large RV sites!
Chau Ram County Park • 28 Camping Sites • Primitive Camping Areas •4 Shelters, 1 Recreational Building • Waterfalls • Hiking Trails • Chauga River Access Closed Nov. 20 thru first weekend in March
High Falls County Park
South Cove County Park • 88 Camping Sites • 1 Shelters •1 Recreational Building • Boat Ramp • 4 Tennis Courts • Playground • Fishing Pier • Lake Keowee
• 100 Camping Sites • 2 Shelters, 1 Recreational Building • Boat Ramp • Fishing Pier • Miniature Golf • Playground • Softball Field • Volleyball • Basketball • Tennis • Lake Keowee Day Use & Lake Access Open Year-Round Camping closed Nov. 20 thru first weekend in March
All Areas Open Year-Round
Experience Oconee, SC
www.ExperienceOconee.com Make Your Reservations at www.reserveamerica.com.
TRAVELING TO OCONEE COUNTY The Mountain Lakes region of Oconee County, South Carolina, is located in upstate South Carolina, north of I-85, 45 miles (72 km) west of Greenville, SC and approximately 125 miles (201 km) east of Atlanta, GA. Oconee County is the western-most county of South Carolina and its county seat is Walhalla. Other cities in the county include Seneca and Westminster. Towns include Salem and West Union, and other communities include Long Creek, Mountain Rest and Fair Play. South Carolina Highway 11, also known as the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway, begins in southern Oconee County at Interstate 85 at the Georgia state line. ■ AIRLINE SERVICE Four airports service the Mountain Lakes Region. Driving directions from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: Exit the airport following the I-85 north to Greenville signs. Continue on I-85 north through Atlanta, going 95.5 miles. Take Exit 1 as you enter South Carolina and follow the signage to SC Highway 11. Go 19.6 miles north to SC Highway 28 and exit to Walhalla. Driving directions from GreenvilleSpartanburg International Airport: Exit the airport onto I-85 south toward Atlanta. Travel 37.2 miles and take Exit 19B to merge onto SC 28 W/US-76 W/Clemson Blvd toward Clemson; travel 11.3 miles and turn onto SC 28 W/US-123 S/US-76 W/Tiger Blvd. Go 9 miles and merge right onto SC 28; travel 6.2 miles to Walhalla. Driving directions from Asheville Regional: Exit the airport following the signs to I-26 east; travel 13.3 miles and take Exit
54 to merge onto US-25 S toward US-176/N Carolina 225/Greenville. Travel 16.3 miles and turn left toward SC 11 S/Cherokee Foothills Scenic Hwy; go west on SC Highway 11 for 48.1 miles and exit at Walhalla. Driving directions from Charlotte International Airport: Follow the signage at the airport to I-85 south. Travel 120 miles south and take Exit 19B to merge onto SC 28 W/US-76 W/Clemson Blvd toward Clemson; travel 11.3 miles and turn onto SC 28 W/ US-123 S/US-76 W/Tiger Blvd. Go 9 miles and merge right onto SC 28; travel 6.2 miles to Walhalla. You can also ride Amtrak to the Upstate, arriving and departing in Clemson. Go to www.amtrak.com for more information. Shuttle service to and from Oconee County accommodations can be arranged by calling 877-MT-LAKES or 877-685-2537. ■ OCONEE COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT Oconee County Regional Airport (ICAO ID: CEU ) serves as the aviation gateway to Upstate South Carolina’s most scenic “Golden Corner.” In the realm of AIRPORT DATA , the airport’s 5000’ long runway has both precision GPS, non-precision GPS and NDB instrument approaches and is home for 75 based aircraft. It is a full service airport with fuel and rental car availability. It is located within five minutes of both Clemson and Seneca South Carolina. State Road S-37-394 Seneca, SC 29678 Phone:(864)882-2959 http://www.oconeesc.com/Departments/AJ/ Airport.aspx
www.facebook.com/MountainLakesCVB www.youtube.com/watch?v=mppdGa3jM2Y&feature=plcp CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 7
Destination Of A Lifetime
The Jocassee Gorges
One of the world’s
last GREAT places
O
conee County has been covered by CNN and “Southern Living” magazine – and now a part of the county can say it has been covered by “National Geographic.” “National Geographic” recently published a special edition: “50 of the World’s Last Great Places: Destinations of a Lifetime.” On pages 24-27 readers can find an article titled “Jocassee Gorges: an intense concentration of waterfalls,” along with a picture of Whitewater Falls in autumn and two blooming Oconee bells. The magazine featured parts of the world under five different categories: temperate, arid, coastal, equatorial and polar. Jocassee Gorges fell under “temperate” for its high number of waterfalls and indigenous Oconee bell. Ken Sloan, president and CEO of Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau in Oconee County, said he was surprised to find Jocassee listed inside “National Geographic,” but is not surprised Jocassee would fit the criteria for the publication. “I have had the opportunity to travel the world, and I’ve never seen a place more beautiful said. 8 • Visitors than GuideJocassee Gorges,” he#scmountainlakes www.SCMountainLakes.com
Jocassee was featured in the magazine along with places like the Florida Keys, Baja California, and the Galapagos Islands. Jocassee was doted on for having the Oconee bell, which botanists come to study in the Carolinas because the nearest closest relative to the plant can only be found in Asia, Sloan said. Sloan also said what makes Jocassee different from the other featured places is its unique ecosystem: Jocassee boasts 150 waterfalls in Oconee County alone (Jocassee covers North and South Carolinas) and it is a naturally undisturbed area. “You have this incredible environmental resource of mountains, forests, rivers, waterfalls and man-made lakes,” Sloan said. “You also see the Oconee bell, which is indigenous to this area. It’s just a pretty unique ecosystem.” Sloan said Jocassee is one of only two areas in the country that would adequately fit the “temperate” criteria (the other one being Badlands National Park in South Dakota). With National Geographic being a global publication, Sloan said he hopes to get a tremendous response that will help expose Oconee County. “By and large it’s a huge economic impact opportunity for Oconee County,” he said.
Steve Pagano, park superintendent of North Carolina Gorges State Park, said finding Jocassee in National Geographic was “cool.” “What’s surprising is we’ve been in articles, like in Southern Living, but they always call us,” he said. “This was a total surprise. Somebody discovered us, we didn’t discover them. It’s kind of cool that it came out that way.” Jocassee covers over 43,500 acres, and is federally protected and state protected. The area covered in the magazine article runs from Oconee and Pickens counties east to Jones Gap State Park, all surrounding Lake Jocassee. Most all of the land was once owned by Duke Energy and much of it still is. Pagano said to see Jocassee listed among the other places in the magazine is a huge honor. “You can’t get a higher compliment,” he said. “I think it’s well represented in there (National Geographic), and that’s a great place for it to show up.” Like Sloan, Pagano said he was surprised to find Jocassee in the magazine, but was not surprised at all that Jocassee would be one of National Geographic’s “last great places to visit.” “I think it fits in that Top 50 Places for sure,” he said. “We’re just happy.”
Lake Jocassee Photo by Al Ward CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 9
Suggested Waterfall Hikes Looking for something to do for one or two days? Here are some of our most popular waterfall hikes that you can combine into one or two day trips. Before you go, pack a lunch and carry plenty of water! Please take caution when hiking to any of our waterfalls. These magnificent natural wonders are best viewed from the trail. Every year, we experience several serious “accident” due to hiking negligence. DO NOT LEAVE THE TRAIL FOR A BETTER VIEW FROM THE TOP!!! ■ YELLOW BRANCH FALLS & ISSAQUEENA FALLS These falls are just across the street from each other. Yellow Branch is a moderate 45-minute hike one way, so plan on spending at least two hours. You will cross a few streams so your feet might get wet if you miss the stepping stones. This hike is entirely in the forest with magnificent views. It is a great place to have a picnic while enjoying the falls. Issaqueena is a very short hike, less than five minutes to a viewing platform. You can also walk through Stump House Tunnel while you are there and hike the Blue Ridge Railroad Trail. The trail passes by the “Middle Tunnel” and ends at Saddle Tunnel, neither of which are open for access but still are great hike through the forest. The falls, tunnel and trail all combined will take around three hours. ■ PIG PEN – LICKLOG – KING CREEK – SPOONAUGER – WHITE WATER FALLS This is a five falls hike that can be done in one day. Pig Pen and Licklog are on the same trail, just a few minutes apart. You can see both of them along with the Chattooga River in less than two easy hours. There are some great picnic areas and swimming holes on the river. After parking in the parking lot, follow the signs to the first falls, Pig Pen then cross the wooden bridge to Licklog which is a little difficult to see through the trees. Then continue down the trail to the river. Like most of our falls, this hike is totally submerged in a forest canopy. King Creek is about a 20-minute drive from Pig Pen on Hwy 107. The “Burrels Ford” street sign is apparently a great souvenir so the sign may not be there. If you get to the Fish Hatchery you have gone too far. Turn around and take the first right and follow the road down to the parking lot. This is a beautiful 30 – 40 minute easy to moderate hike through the forest and is one of our most popular falls. On the return hike, you can follow the Foothills Trail signs down to the Chattooga River, then hike upstream back to the parking lot (see the map for details). Just around the corner is a smaller waterfall, Spoonauger that is a moderate 15-minute hike. Total time for both falls is around three hours. If you still have some time left in the day, continue driving up Hwy 107 to Wigington Rd (right). Take time to stop at the Scenic Overlook for a breath taking view of Lake Jocassee and the Jocassee Gorges. Continue on Wigington to Hwy 130, then turn left to White Water Falls. This is state park that requires a parking fee. The hike to the overlook platform is an easy 10-minute walk on an asphalt walkway. If you feel energetic, you can take the stairs down to another viewing platform. This is a pretty steep and moderate walk that is relatively difficult getting back up. 10 • Visitors Guide
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WATERFALLS
Oconee’s river terrain features some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the nation – from the small to the majestic. Their rushing waters surrounded by stunning scenery make each one a special place to visit. Hikes to these waterfalls range from easy to extremely difficult, but each offers a rewarding, picturesque view at the end. Bee Cove Falls, Salem (Map - Waterfalls 1) (Zone 1) This remote multi-tiered falls is a difficult 2- to 3-hour hike but worth the effort. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28, BEAR RIGHT onto Hwy 107 for 12.5 miles. Park on LEFT and walk 150 yards to FS 702. BEAR RIGHT at 3-way intersection and follow the sounds to the waterfalls. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.98149 W 083.06280 Big Bend Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 2) (Zone 1)
Largest vertical drop of the Chattooga River is a sight to see, but it is a difficult 3-hour walk. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28. BEAR RIGHT onto Hwy 107 for 10 miles, then LEFT onto Burrells Ford Rd for 3 miles, park. Follow Foothills Trail 2.5 miles to Big Bend Trail. 0.5 miles hear the falls. Follow rugged paths to the falls. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.97128 W 083.11465 Blue Hole Falls, Mountain Rest (Map - Waterfalls 3) (Zone 1) Water rushes 75 feet down a narrow gap into a blue hole, thus the name. Moderate 30-minute hike. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28 for 7 miles then LEFT on Whetstone Rd, 1 mile then LEFT on Cassidy Bridge Rd for 1 mile. Turn LEFT onto Rich Mountain Rd, 3.3 miles then RIGHT on Cedar Creek Rd, 2.5 miles and park. Hike .3 miles down 2658 to intersection. RIGHT down short path to creek. Cross and follow downstream. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.76171 W 083.18613 CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 11
Brasstown Falls, Long Creek (Map - Waterfalls 4) (Zone 3) Four falls ranging from 20 to 40 feet. A beautiful, easy hike. WEST from Westminster on Hwy 76 for 11 miles then LEFT on Brasstown Rd for 4 miles to FS 751. Park and follow trail. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.71908 W 083.30158 Bull Sluice Falls, Long Creek (Map - Waterfalls 5) (Zone 3) A sight to see, with 14-foot drop on Chattooga River with whitewater in action. NORTHWEST on Hwy 76 from Westminster 17 miles. Parking area is before bridge at SC/GA line. Walk ¼ mile upstream. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.81473 W 083.30512 Chau Ram Falls, Westminster (Map - Waterfalls 6) (Zone 3) Beautiful 40-foot cascade over large boulders where Ramsey Creek and Chauga River meet. Two miles WEST of Westminster on Hwy 76 at Chau Ram County Park. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.68171 W 083.14542 Chauga Narrows, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 7) (Zone 1) Narrow 25-foot-high falls. NORTH 7 miles from Walhalla on Hwy 28. LEFT on Whetstone Rd (S193). Go 3 miles to Blackwell Bridge over Chauga. Park and follow trail for easy ¼-mile hike. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.83332 W 083.17399 Cheohee or Miuka Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 8) (Zone 1) This 75-foot waterfall on Townes Creek can be easily viewed with a 45-minute hike. NORTH from Walhalla on SC 28, BEAR RIGHT on Hwy 107 for 8.7 miles. Park on RIGHT and follow the Winding Stairs Trail signs with yellow posts on RIGHT. Trail turns RIGHT 0.2 miles. Make a sharp left and contiue 1.3 miles to clearing and hear the falls. Hike through foliage to creek. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.94110 W 083.08975 Fall Creek Falls, Long Creek (Map Waterfalls 9) (Zone 3) Multiple falls range from 30 to 40 feet within a 1-mile stretch. A difficult 2-mile hike. Travel WEST 16 miles from Westminster on Hwy 76, turn RIGHT on Chattooga Ridge Rd (S196). Go 2 miles to LEFT at Fall Salem 1 Creek Rd (FS 722). Take the LEFT fork across Fall Creek and park. Path on LEFT leads Walhalla West to base of first falls and strenuous downstream hike. GPS Union coordinates to parking area: N 34.82245 W 083.25079 3
Icon Key
Easy Moderate
12 • Visitors Guide
Strenuous
Boat Accessible Only
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Seneca Westminster
2
Zone Map www.SCMountainLakes.com
Hidden Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 10) (Zone 1) Near the head of the Foothills Trail, this 50-foot waterfall over granite ledges can be reached with a moderate, one-hour hike. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28. BEAR RIGHT on SC 107 for 2.5 miles to Oconee State Park (admission fee). RIGHT .8 miles to Foothills Trailhead. Park. Follow trail to its junction with Station Mountain Rd and the Tamassee Knob Trail. Crossing Station Mountain Rd go LEFT 10 yards on Foothills Trail. Follow signs to waterfall. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.86309 W 083.09820 Issaqueena Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 11) (Zone 1) An easy 5-minute walk gives you a view of the beautiful waterfall named for a Creek maiden who hid on a ledge to avoid capture during an Indian attack. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28 for 5.5 miles, turn RIGHT at the entrance of Stumphouse Tunnel Park. Follow signs to waterfall. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.80740 W 083.12158 King Creek Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 12 (Zone 1) This 70-foot tumble through a laurel-choked gorge is on King Creek. Moderate 30-minute hike. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28. BEAR RIGHT on Hwy 107 for 10 miles. LEFT onto Burrells Ford Rd for 2.3 miles. Park on left. Hike Chattooga Trail for .3 mile then LEFT by bank of creek. Cross bridge then LEFT on trail to falls. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.97128 W 083.11465 Laurel Fork Falls, Salem (Map – Waterfalls 13) (Zone 1)
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This is the one waterfall you should consider visiting by a means other than hiking. (Refer to page 36 for boat rentals.) Witnessing 80-foot high Laurel Fork Falls from a boat in the waters of Lake Jocassee is a once-in-alifetime shot. Drive NORTH from Pickens on US 178 for approximately 16.5 miles and turn left onto Laurel Valley Rd, take the gravel road to the RIGHT and drive .5 mile to the Foothills Trail/Laurel Valley Access parking lot on left. There is a 16 mile round trip hike. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 35 02.938 W 82 48.828
Boat Accessible Waterfalls LINA ARO Y TH C UNT NOR E CO E N OCO
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CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Lake Jocassee
Devils Fork State Park
Mile
Lake Keowee ! !
Visitors Guide • 13
Lee Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 14) (Zone 1 ) Oconee’s most scenic falls on Tamassee Creek, but no official trail make this a challenging hike. From intersection of Hwy 11 and Hwy 183, go NORTH on Hwy 11 for 4 miles. Turn LEFT on Cheohee Valley Rd for 1.4 miles. Turn LEFT onto Road 375 for 1 mile. Turn LEFT on Tamassee Knob Rd and RIGHT on Jumping Branch Rd. Turn LEFT on the second gravel road (FS 715A). GPS coordinates to parking area: N34.89344, W83.08131. Waterfall coordinates: N34.89428, W83.10191 Long Creek Falls, Long Creek (Map - Waterfalls 15) (Zone 3) Multi-tiered, 50-foot cascade into Chattooga River. WEST from Westminster on US 76 13 miles to Damascus Church Rd for 1 mile. Turn RIGHT on Battle Creek Rd for 1.8 miles, RIGHT on Turkey Ridge Rd for 3 miles. Park in clearing near FS 755I. Follow to small parking area and stay RIGHT to the fork. This is a moderate hour-long hike. Last 1/4 mile is steep downhill to river. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.77767 W 083.31212 Mill Creek Falls, Salem (Map – Waterfalls 28) (Zone 1) Located on Lake Jocassee this falls is only accessible by boat. Launch from Devils Fork State Park (parking fee required). Boat rentals and lake tours available. For exact locations of the falls, please stop by the Devils Fork Ranger Station for a map and detailed directions. GPS coordinates for Devils Fork State Park are: N 34.952139W 82.946134 Opposum Creek Falls, Long Creek (Map - Waterfalls 17) (Zone 3) Two-hour hike to this 50-foot cascade requires quite an effort. WEST from Westminster on US 76 13 miles. LEFT onto Damascus Church Rd 1 mile. RIGHT on Battle Creek Rd 1.8 miles. RIGHT on Turkey Ridge Rd 2.2 miles. Park on left and follow trail for 2 miles to the river then hike upstream. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.77332 W 083.30361 Pigpen/Licklog Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 18) (Zone 1) Two sets of falls 1/4 mile apart. From Hwy 28/US 107 intersection, NORTH on 107, 3 miles to a LEFT on Village Creek Rd for 1 mile. Turn RIGHT on Nicholson Ford Rd (FS 775) 2 miles to park. Access Foothills Trail toward Chattooga River and Falls. Easy one-hour hike. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.91905 W 083.12020
Reedy Branch Falls, Long Creek (Map – Waterfalls 30) (Zone 3) This 30-foot cascade is easily accessible via a 300-yard walk down a gravel road. The pull-off, with its large stone columns and iron gate, makes you think it’s private property. However, it is indeed public land as the U.S. Forest Service stake inside the gate indicates. According to a Forest Service ranger, the land was in the process of being developed for homesites when the Forest Service acquired it. Some remnants of this development remain. From Westminster, take U.S. 76 for about 15 miles. Look for the pull-off on the left after you pass Chattooga Ridge Road on the right. 14 • Visitors Guide
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Riley Moore Falls, Long Creek (Map - Waterfalls 20) (Zone 3) Once the site of a gristmill, this waterfall measures 12 feet high, 100 feet wide. Moderate 15-minute walk. WEST from Westminster 7.5 miles on US 76. RIGHT on Cobb Bridge Rd 1.4 miles. LEFT on Spy Rock Rd, which is gravel, 2 miles. RIGHT on FS 748C. End of road, follow short trail to falls. Moderate 15-minute walk. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.74106 W 083.18535 Secret Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 21 (Zone 1) ) Winding Stairs Trail leads to this waterfall off the beaten path. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28. BEAR RIGHT onto Hwy 107 for 8.7 miles, park on right. Follow Winding Stairs Trail beginning at yellow posts on RIGHT. Trail turns RIGHT 0.2 miles. Continue past clearing where you exit to view Cheohee Falls. At 3rd LEFT turn, leave trail and head through foliage, looking for ravine on LEFT. 300 yards from the trail you view the waterfall. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.94110 W 083.08975 Spoonauger Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 22) (Zone 1) This 50-foot waterfall is setet back into a hillside and surrounded by an explosion of shrubbery. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28. BEAR RIGHT on Hwy 107 for 10 miles then LEFT on Burrells Ford Rd. Drive approximately 2.4 miles. Park on shoulder of the road near the Forestry sign at the trail head. Follow the trail approximately 0.25 mile, cross over Spoonauger Creek. Just after the falls, turn RIGHT at the Falls sign and hike uphill to the falls. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.97480 W 08311478 Station Cove Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 23) (Zone 1) Station Cove Falls, a stepped 60-foot waterfall forms from headwaters atop Station Mountain. An easy, 30-minute hike through a gorgeous Appalachian cove takes you there. From the intersection of Hwy 11 and 183, drive 1.5 miles NORTH on Hwy 11. LEFT on Oconee Station Rd 2.4 miles to parking area at historic site. Follow trail signs to falls. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.84867 W 083.07463 Turtleback Falls, Mountain Rest (Map - Waterfalls 24) Turtleback Falls is one of the many falls on the Horsepasture River. See Rainbow Falls for details on how to find the area. This small falls is downstream (to the LEFT) of where the trail meets the river. The locals use it as a waterslide. Whitewater Falls, Upper, NC (Map - Waterfalls 26) (NC) Beginning in North Carolina and ending in South Carolina, these falls are the highest in eastern America. From Hwy 11 in Salem, go NORTH on Hwy 130 ten miles and follow signs to Whitewater Falls.
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 15
Whitewater Falls, Lower, Salem (Map - Waterfalls 27) (Zone 1)
Beginning in North Carolina and ending in South Carolina, these falls are the highest in eastern America. From Hwy 11 at Salem go NORTH on Hwy 130 10 miles. RIGHT at Duke Energy’s Bad Creek Hydro Station. Park in lot for Foothills Trail. 1.7 miles to the overlook. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 35.01246 W 082.99911 Wright’s Creek Falls, Salem (Map – Waterfalls 28) (Zone 1)
Located on Lake Jocassee this falls is only accessible by boat. Launch from Devils Fork State Park (parking fee required). Boat rentals and lake tours available. For exact locations of the falls, please stop by the Devils Fork Ranger Station for a map and detailed directions. GPS coordinates for Devils Fork State Park are: N 34.952139W 82.946134 Yellow Branch Falls, Mountain Rest (Map - Waterfalls 29) (Zone 1)
60-foot cascades over rock ledges makes this one of the favorites. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28 for 5.4 miles. LEFT to Yellow Branch Recreation Area. Hike short distance on nature trail to Yellow Branch Falls Trail. 1.3 miles to the falls. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.80557 W 083.12876
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It provides the user with a guide to 25 of the magnificent waterfalls in Oconee County. This app provides voice narration, stunning images, text descriptions and GPS enabled mapping to help you make the most out of your Mountain Lakes Region adventure.
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keyword search: “SC Mountain Lakes Waterfalls” 16 • Visitors Guide
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Chattooga Sounds Camp
The perfect base camp for your next adventure!
Chattooga Sounds Camp, located in Long Creek, offers campers the solitude and peacefulness of nature, but just moments away from all the outdoor action you’re looking for.
• Walk-In and Drive-In Tent Sites • Raised Camp Sheds • Large Group Camp Area • Covered Picnic Shelter, Camp Kitchen • Bathhouses • RV Sites • Kayak & Rafters, Lake Shuttle
For information and reservations: 864.647.6196 or chattoogasoundscamping@yahoo.com 2851 Damascus Church Road • Long Creek, SC 29658
The Perfect Team for the Perfect Adventure!
1-800-868-7238
www.southeasternexpeditions.com
THE SUMTER NATIONAL FOREST Andrew Pickens Ranger District The Andrew Pickens Ranger District is named for Revolutionary War General Andrew Pickens. This 85,000-acre portion of the Sumter National Forest serves as the gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains of South Carolina, Georgia and North Carolina. The district office, known as the “Stumphouse” Ranger Station, offers a small interpretive center, sales outlet, maps and Smokey Bear memorabilia. Ellicott Rock Wilderness Congress established the 3,300-acre Ellicott Rock Wilderness in 1975 and made additions in 1984. This wilderness now contains 8,274 acres in South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia and is located about 16 miles north of Walhalla, South Carolina. Surrounding part of the 15,432-acre Chattooga Wild and Scenic River corridor, it provides a large, undeveloped area within easy driving distance of Atlanta. USDA Forest Service Andrew Pickens Ranger District 112 Andrew Pickens Circle, Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.638.9568 Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. www.fs.usda.gov/scnfs www.facebook.com/scnfs 18 • Visitors Guide
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■ Camping In The Sumter National Forest Andrew Pickens Ranger District The District has a wide range of camping opportunities from developed campgrounds to primitive and backcountry sites. *Note: Groups of more than 75 require a special-use permit. Developed Campsites ♦♦ Cherry Hill Recreation Area • Open April – Sept. • Fee • First-come, first served sites and reservation-only sites ♦♦ Whetstone Horse Camp • Open year round • Fee • First-come, first served sites and reservation-only sites • ♦♦ Burrell’s Ford Campground • Open year round • Free • First-come, first-served sites These established campsites are within recreations areas on the district. They are standard, non-electric sites that include some amenities (fire ring, table, bathroom, water faucets). Group Camp ♦♦ Cassidy Bridge Hunt Camp • Open year round (no fees Oct. 1 - Dec. 31 and April 1 - 30). Reservation required remainder of the year • This group camp is for hunters during hunting seasons and can be reserved for groups camp-outs the remainder of the year. • Includes a pit toilet and trash cans.
Reservations can be made by calling 877.444.6777 or visit www.recreation.gov. CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Primitive Campsites These campsites have few, if any, facilities and do not require a permit Saddle, pack and draft animals are not permitted at any of the primitive campsites except Riley Moore Ford and Tamassee Camp. King’s Creek Big Bend Tamassee Camp Grapevine Riley Moore Ford Timmy Place Turpin Branch Fall Creek Thrifts Ferry Woodall Shoals Brasstown Falls Long Bottom Ford Nicholson Field Blackwell Bridge Double Branch Backcountry Camping Backcountry camping is allowed at locations that are at least 50 feet from a maintained trail, 50 feet from any river or stream, and 0.25 miles from an open road. Please read and respect specific limitations when posted. Group size limits exist north of the Hwy 28 bridge in the upper Chattooga corridor. Maximum 6 per group for overnight stays. ■ The Seven Principles Of Leave No Trace While Visiting The National Forest 1. Plan Ahead and Prepare 2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces 3. Dispose of Waste Properly 4. Leave What You Find 5. Minimize Campfire Impacts 6. Respect Wildlife 7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors The member-driven Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics teaches people how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly. This copyrighted information has been reprinted with permission from the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: www.LNT.org
Visitors Guide • 19
Oconee State Park during the Leonid meteor shower
PARKS STATE PARKS Devils Fork State Park (Map - Parks 5) Salem, South Carolina 29676 864.944.2639 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder Devils Fork State Park provides the only public access to Lake Jocassee, a largely undeveloped 7,500-acre reservoir tucked deep into the Cherokee Foothills. The park is popular with families, fishermen, scuba divers and boaters who enjoy Jocassee’s uncrowded setting and spectacular scenery – including waterfalls that cascade into the lake from steep, wooded slopes. Full campground amenities and modern villas are highlights of the park. The hiking and nature trails provide opportunities to spot rare Oconee Bell spring flowers or catch a glimpse of a bald eagle or peregrine falcon patrolling the mountain skies. Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area (Map - Parks 8) 19138-A Hwy. 115 Fair Play, South Carolina 29643 864.972.3353 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area is a fisherman’s dream. The 56,000-acre lake maintains a reputation for top-flight angling, including striped, hybrid and large-mouth bass, crappie, bream and catfish. In addition to lake access, the site offers hiking, affordable oneroom camper cabins and an information center, which displays vintage fishing equipment. 20 • Visitors Guide
Oconee State Park (Map - Parks 11) 624 State Park Road Mountain Rest, South Carolina 29664 864.638.5353 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder Deep in the Blue Ridge foothills, Oconee State Park has welcomed visitors since it was first built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. It’s popular for its several picturesque, but non-demanding, hiking trails and its well-kept cabins and campgrounds. The park’s fishing lakes offer bass and bream, and the woods are full of wildlife. Adjacent to Sumter National Forest, the park serves as a jumping-off point to the nearby Chattooga and Chauga rivers, hotspots for whitewater rafting and trout fishing. The park also marks the southern trailhead for the Foothills Trail. Oconee Station State Historic Site (Map - Parks 12) 500 Oconee Station Rd., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.638.0079 Built around 1792 during tensions between white settlers and Creek Indians, the Oconee Station itself was once one in a string of small frontier posts garrisoned by state militia. It was the last of its kind when it was decommissioned in 1799. Its impressive 20-inch stone walls are still standing today. The site features picnicking, fishing, and trail access to Station Cove Falls in the Sumter National Forest.
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OCONEE COUNTY PARKS Located on the clear waters of Lake Keowee, South Cove and High Falls County Parks readily lend themselves to an array of aquatic activity. For those interested in a mountainous setting filled with beautiful waterfalls, Chau Ram County Park is just 10 miles from the famous Chattooga River. Chau Ram County Park (Map - Parks 2) 1220 Chau Ram Park Rd., Westminster 864.647.9286 www.experienceoconee.com Open March - November. Chau Ram County Park is located at the confluence of the Chauga River and Ramsey Creek. With a 40-foot waterfall and Oconee’s longest suspension bridge, Chau Ram has something to offer everyone. Visitors can enjoy hiking/biking trails or go tubing and fishing on the river. Many campers use the park as a base when going rafting on the nearby Chattooga River. The 26 campsites, shelters, and Recreation Building are available for reservations by going on-line to www.reserveamerica. com or by calling 1-855-622-6727. High Falls County Park (Map - Parks 6) 671 High Falls Rd, Seneca 864.882.8234 www.experienceoconee.com High Falls County Park is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This 44-acre park is located on beautiful Lake Keowee. The park store offers a variety of convenient items and is located in the park’s focal point, the historic Alexander/Cannon/Hill House, built
in 1830. At High Falls, visitors are not limited to activities on the lake as the park provides many amenities. Among the park’s amenities are a boat ramp, miniature golf, volleyball area, horseshoe pit, a softball field, and a basketball and tennis court. The park also has the best sand beach on Lake Keowee. There are also picnic tables and grills scattered throughout the day use area. The 100 campsites (of which ten are waterfront), shelters, and Recreation Building are available for reservations by going on-line to www.reserveamerica.com or by calling 1-855-622-6727. South Cove County Park (Map - Parks 13) 1099 South Cove Rd., Seneca 864.882.5250 www.experienceoconee.com South Cove County Park is located on the clear waters of Lake Keowee. At South Cove, visitors are not limited to activities on the lake as the park provides many amenities and programs to suit every recreational need. Among the park’s amenities are four tennis courts, a volleyball court, playground area, and a handicapped-accessible fishing pier. Fishing, boating, sailing and water skiing are readily accessible via two boat ramps. There are also picnic tables and grills scattered throughout the park. The park’s 88 campsites (of which 46 are waterfront) are located on a peninsula overlooking Lake Keowee. The park’s campsites, Pavilion, and Recreation Building are available for reservations by going on-line to www.reserveamerica.com or by calling 1-855622-6727.
South Cove County Park CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 21
HIKING When it comes to trails, you’ve hit the jackpot with Oconee County! From simple park trails to ambitious steep climbs, from rivers edge to lakeside, on foot or by horseback, the trails of this region offer something for everyone. The high adventurer and those with more modest physical ability can find a trail that suits them, one that leads to better fitness or another that leads to a beautiful waterfall. A great source of information regarding trails is the website maintained by the South Carolina State Trails Program, www.sctrails. net. Trails on this site are well-described, and include good directions, lengths and times of hikes, and difficulty levels. All of the hikes are worthwhile. For more trails than those listed here, you can also visit www.scmountainlakes.com/ uploads/Experience/Hiking.asp. For hikes to some of the nearly 150 waterfalls in Oconee County, please see the waterfall section of this guide. The Free Map Insert has the trails listed as well as numbered symbols that indicate the general location of each of the trails. The trails listed here are in order of length and type. 22 • Visitors Guide
■ HIKING TRAILS Foothills Trail (Map – Trails 4) This National Recreation Trail has its western terminus in Oconee State Park and extends to the north and east for 77 miles to Table Rock State Park. Divided into sections of various lengths, it hugs the banks of the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River, passes beautiful Whitewater Falls (highest waterfall in the east ), and meanders through the magnificent Jocassee Gorges. The sections vary in length and difficulty, and day-hikers can access them from a dozen different points, including by boat from Devils Fork State Park. The Foothills Trail is also a favorite with backpackers from all parts of the country because hiking on the trail can be accomplished by a simple overnight campout to a thru-hike lasting a week. Day-hikes may be made on additional spur trails to Eastatoe Gorge, Ellicott Rock, and the more remote Lower Whitewater Falls. The Foothills Trail is maintained and promoted by the Foothills Trail Conference, a non-profit, membership organization which has a website that is filled with information
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about the Trail, its activities, and how to join. Visit the site at www.foothillstrail.org. Detailed information about the Trail can be found in the Foothills Trail Guidebook and on the Foothills Trail Map, both of which can be ordered through the website, obtained at local outfitter stores, or at the state parks at either end of the Trail. The Conference may be contacted by email at info@foothillstrail. org or writing to Foothills Trail Conference, P.O. Box 3041, Greenville, SC, 29602. Chattooga Trail (Map – Trails 2) This moderately difficult, 15.5-mile trail runs parallel to the famous Chattooga River, and shares 8.5 miles with the Foothills Trail as it passes through some of the finest wilderness in South Carolina. It can be accessed from SC Highway 28, Burrell’s Ford Campground in Sumter National Forest, Bullpen Rd in NC, or from the Foothills Trail. Waterfall lovers shouldn’t miss this trail because they can see a number of them here, including King Creek, Spoonauger, Big Bend, Pigpen, and Licklog Falls. Ellicott Rock, found on the upper portion of the river, is the historic corner of SC, NC, and Georgia. Fork Mountain Trail (Map – Trails 5) This moderate 6.4-mile trail, which is a spur of the Foothills Trail, starts in South Carolina at the Sloan Bridge Picnic Area and ends in
NC where it joins the Bad Creek Trail in the Ellicott Rock Wilderness Area. From here the trail eventually joins the Chattooga Trail and continues southwest to Burrell’s Ford. The trail weaves along the northern flanks of Fork Mountain, ascending and descending through numerous coves and ravines. At the junction with the Bad Creek Trail, you can return or extend your hike approximately 1.3 miles to historic Ellicott Rock. Winding Stairs Trail (Map – Trails 7) A 75-foot waterfall tucked away along this accessible 3.5-mile trail makes this an interesting choice for a hike. If you start at the northern trailhead at the Cherry Hill Recreation Area, this meandering path is an easy hike as it drops 1,100 feet over its length. The return trip then becomes moderately difficult due to that elevation change. It may be necessary to be picked up at the southern end on Tamassee Rd (FS 710) or to actually begin the hike from there. Blue Ridge Railroad Historic Trail (Map – Trails 9)
Yellow and Red blazes mark this moderate to strenuous 3.5-mile trail. The trail follows an incomplete section of a 19th century railbed near Walhalla, and has to hiked out-and-back ( 7 miles total ).
Lick Log Creek Falls CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 23
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Courtesy of South Carolina Parks, Recreation and Tourism with Amick Designs
24 • Visitors Guide
Big Bend Trail (Map – Trails 1) This 2.7-mile, out-and-back trail begins at the Cherry Hill Recreation Area and eventually ends at a junction with the Foothills Trail along the Chattooga River. An adventurous scramble on an unmaintained trail along the river affords views of 30-ft Big Bend Falls, largest drop on the Chattooga River. East Fork Trail (Map – Trails 3) Beginning at the picnic area adjacent to the Walhalla Fish Hatchery, this 2.5-mile trail is an easy hike along the bank of the scenic, fastmoving east fork of the Chattooga River, and it takes you to the Chattooga River itself. Beginning or ending the hike at Burrell’s Ford adds an additional 2.1 miles. Oconee Bells Nature Trail (Map – Trails 10) This easy, 1-mile loop within Devils Fork State Park gets its name from a rare wildflower that has gorgeous white blooms in the early spring. Many native plant species are indentified with markers along the trail. The trailhead is behind the park office and has an informative kiosk at the beginning of the trail.
King Creek Falls along the Foothills Trail
Bad Creek Spur Trail (Map – Trails 8) This easy 0.8-mile spur trail provides a connection to the Whitewater River, the Foothills Trail, Coon Branch Trail, and to Lower Whitewater Falls ( via the Foothills Trail ). Enter the gate to Duke Energy’s Bad Creek Hydro Station on SC 130, and proceed two miles down to the marked entrance to the large trailhead parking area. Fishing, but no camping, is allowed along the Whitewater River. A designated campsite is located 0.5 miles past the junction with the river.
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Visitors Guide • 25
■ BIKING/HIKING TRAILS Oconee Connector of the Palmetto Trail
■ HORSE TRAILS
(Map – Trails 12)
Rocky Gap – Willis Knob Horse Trails
Once the Palmetto Trail is complete, this moderate to difficult trail will end in Walhalla, but for now you can start from either Oconee State Park or Oconee Station. The Oconee Connector is a moderate to difficult 3.2-mile trail that is steeply uphill from Oconee Station. Mountain bikes are allowed on the Oconee Connector.
– Trails 6)
(Map
Rocky Gap Trail in South Carolina and Willis Knob Trail in Georgia combine to offer some of the most scenic horseback riding in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains. Winding across deeply dissected ridges, the trails descend into the beautiful Chattooga Wild and Scenic River corridor. For a fee the Whetstone Horse Camp in South Carolina serves as a base camp for many users of both trails. Earls Ford Road, located near Whetstone, provides a parking area and hiking trail access
Hit the (Foothills) Trail If hiking is your game, then discovering all or part of the Foothills Trail is what you can find in Oconee County, SC. Hikers from all over the country come to enjoy the solitude and scenery of this National Recreation Trail, which was listed as “ one of the best long trails (50 + miles) in the country “ by Backpacker Magazine in 2011. Stretching from its western terminus in Oconee State Park and extending to the north and east for 77 miles to Table Rock State Park, nearly half of the Trail is in Oconee County and can be accessed from numerous trailheads on SC Highway 107 and SC 130. Day hikes of all sorts are possible from various trailheads, including the one in Oconee State Park. Leaving the park a hiker has options of a 4.5 mile or 6.0 mile hike, or a visit to a small waterfall. From Burrell’s Ford a hiker may go upstream along the Chattooga River and find Ellicott’s Rock, the point where GA, NC, and SC come together, or meander downstream with gorgeous views of the rocky rapids and shoals. The USFS parking lot at Whitewater Falls (SC130/ NC281) is the gate26 • Visitors Guide
way to a 3.5 mile hike along the Whitewater River, and includes the crossing of two 60-ft bridges that span the river and a stroll through an area of tall White Pines. A tremendous viewing point can be reached by taking the Foothills Trail across the highway from Whitewater Falls parking area and hiking uphill one mile to twin benches placed there for the enjoyment of the hiker. After visiting the Walhalla Fish Hatchery, an easy 4-mile stretch of the Trail leads from the Fish Hatchery Road downhill to Burrell’s Ford. Visitors interested in backpacking can launch off from any of the same trailheads as day-hikers and tackle terrain that is rated from easy to strenuous, and allows for camping at most places except along the Whitewater River. The USFS campground at Burrell’s Ford has picnic tables, lantern posts, bearbag cables, and leveled sites. Fishing (with proper license) is allowed in the Whitewater and Chattooga Rivers. If a car shuttle is required, the Foothills Trail Conference maintains a list of volunteer drivers on their website. An orientation map can be found on page 24 in this guide, but more detailed information is available in the “ Foothills Trail Guidebook “ and on the Foothills Trail Map, both of which can be ordered through the website, obtained at local outfitter stores, or at the state parks at either end of the Trail. The Conference may be contacted by email at info@foothillstrail.org or writing to Foothills Trail Conference, P.O. Box 3041, Greenville, SC, 29602.
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LAKES
Wrights Creek Falls — Lake Jocassee CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
The great outdoors of Oconee County offers endless opportunities for all ages — whether you’re interested in just whiling away the time or your enthusiasm for outdoor activities is boundless. If you’ve visited or live in the area, then you no doubt are familiar with Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee and know of their reputations for pristine waters, endless mountain views, and lots of room for all forms of water activity. With over 300 miles of shoreline on Lake Keowee and 75 miles on the more secluded Lake Jocassee, even the most beautiful days allow for plenty of room to enjoy the water. At the southern end of the county is Lake Hartwell, one of the Southeast’s largest and most popular public recreation lakes, often referred to as “the Great Lake of the South.” Keowee is generally more accessible, as well as more developed, with public boat ramps maintained by both the Oconee County Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism and Duke Energy. On the lower level of Lake Keowee, access is available at: • South Cove County Park • Cane Creek Access • High Falls County Park • Stamp Creek Access Area • Keowee Marina • Warpath Access Area Visitors Guide • 27
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Keowee’s north end offers cooler water and a closer view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Access is available at: • Mile Creek Park • Crow Creek Access Area • Keowee Towne Landing • Fall Creek Access Public access to 7,500-acre Lake Jocassee is limited to Devils Fork State Park off of Hwy 11, the number one visited state park in South Carolina. This largely undeveloped lake lies snug in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is popular for families, fishermen and bird watchers. The park offers first-class amenities and is very popular, so be sure to check for reservations at www. ReserveUSA.com. Lake Hartwell was built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers between 1955 and 1963 and has consistently been one of the top three most-visited Corps lakes in the nation, with an estimated 14 million people visiting annually. Hartwell comprises nearly 56,000 acres of water with a shoreline of 962 miles, 262 of which border Oconee County. Over 20,000 acres of public land CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 29
Photo by Pam Turner
surround the lake. The Corps operates nine campgrounds, 15 major day-use areas and numerous other lake-access areas. Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area is a popular camping and boating destination, as are Coneross and Oconee Point Campgrounds located on the Seneca River arm at the northern end of the lake. Oconee is host to 18 boat ramp, several picnic and swimming areas, and several vacation rental homes. For additional information, contact Lake Harwell’s visitor information center at 803.225.3832 or visit the Lake
Hartwell Marketing Alliance website at www.MyLakeHartwell.org. No matter which of these incredible lakes you choose to visit, it is always a good idea to peruse the website, www. dnr.sc.gov/regulations, at the beginning of each season. A downloadable file with annual water recreation regulations is available to share with the family — especially the kids. Several regulations are specific to age and you’ll want to make sure your family members are aware of wake zones, sunset rules, fishing regulations and the like.
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30 • Visitors Guide
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LAKE JOCASSEE top diving destination Lake Jocassee is a beautiful Mountain Lake and a world class freshwater Diving destination. Lake Jocassee is one of the world’s top 25 fresh water diving destinations listed in Scuba Diving Magazine. The reservoir was built by Duke Power Company as part of the Keowee Project. Jocassee Dam was completed in early 1973 and it reached full pond for the first time in June 1973. Location is everything. The trout filled rivers and streams that feed Jocassee are the reason for the clarity or “Viz” as divers call it. Visibility surpassing 50 feet at depth on warm summer days is common. Lake Levels affect the depth of the dive sites as much as 25 feet on Jocassee. The “Wall” is the most visited diving area of Jocassee and was created by blasting the side of the mountain for the construction of the dam. Steps carved onto the side of a mountain create underwater shelves at 35 feet, 60 feet, and 165 feet. It then slopes steeply to 200 feet and steps down again to 240 feet. From there it slopes down to the valley floor at 340 feet. On the 35 foot level you find Underwater Basketball with a full court, two training platforms, navigation course and a by-plane. Attractions at the Wall’s sixty five foot level include a forty foot wooden sail boat imported from China known as the ‘Chinese Junk’. It is sitting upright adjacent to the 165 foot drop and allows ample room for swim troughs. There is a three room dungeon decorated with skeletons dressed as Pirates, 20 foot pipe for buoyancy swim through, and a mock cemetery with head stones. Filmed on location in the early 1970’s, the movie Deliverance shows views of the wall being blasted out of the mountain and the Mount Carmel graveyard occupants being exhumed for relocation. At a depth between 115 and 138 feet, the Graveyard is one of the lakes most noted attractions. Perpetual care has a new meaning as divers keep the silt fanned away from abandoned head stones that once marked the grave sites. Technical divers can visit the steel White Water River Bridge, Camp Jocassee for Girls, and the famous Attakulla Lodge all resting in over 300 feet of water. CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Lake Jocassee is the foremost diving destination in the Southeastern United States. Located halfway between Charlotte NC and Atlanta GA. Jocassee is a crown jewel nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Dive Shops from five states come to Jocassee to train their students and the students keep coming back. The word is spreading and if this is your first time hearing of it you must see what all the fuss is about. Come enjoy the natural beauty of Jocassee, explore history, dive over the walls of Jocassee, and into its depths. Adventure and great diving are what Jocassee is known for. From learning Basic Open Water to Advanced Technical Diving you can’t find a better place to play and enjoy the sport of diving. Bill Routh, Lake Jocassee Dive Shop
Visitors Guide • 31
Whetstone Photography.
RIVERS ■ RIVERS Fun, excitement on the Southeast’s finest Chattooga River The 19-mile stretch of the Chattooga National Wild and Scenic River is known for its history, whitewater rapids, and meandering, mountainous woodland passage. Its lower passage is considered among the best of whitewater trips, with heart-thumping Class III to Class VI rapids. And while the Chattooga may be the most popular, it is not the only refuge for mountain trout. Oconee County’s Chauga River also offers a multitude of coldwater runs, riffles, pools and flatwater that play host to a wealth of both native and stocked fish. Again, fly fishermen may want to consider using a guide of these rivers. For adventure, scenery, fishing (it has been listed in Trout Unlimited’s “America’s 100 Best Trout Streams”), camping or even just a lazy day, the Chattooga is a rare experience – one of the reasons it is a federally designated Wild and Scenic River. Though the area is beautiful and often peaceful, the currents and undercurrents of the river can be dangerous. Guide services are recommended, and please note that the US Forest Service has regulations for use of the river. Contact the Sumter National Forest Ranger’s Office at 864.638.9568. The US Forest Service commercially per-
mits three companies to operate on the Chattooga for rafting and five companies to provide instructional clinics in whitewater canoeing and kayaking. Chattooga River
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Chauga River The 9.8-mile path of the Chauga River offers much of the same scenic beauty and cool waters found on Chattooga and is accessible from Hwy 290 north of Seneca. Both whitewater and relaxing flat water are found on the Chauga. A popular destination is the Narrows, a 200-foot run accessible from a short hiking path west of Walhalla off Hwy 28 on Whetstone Road. Both rivers are popular places for picnics and day hikes. Be sure to bring protective clothing and shoes for the river. The Chauga is also popular with anglers; trout can be caught in many of the smaller streams. Good access and parking are available adjacent to Cassidy Bridge on Hwy 290.
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Visitors Guide • 33
Whetstone Photography
THE CHATTOOGA
heaven on earth for whitewater rafters Those who have seen the classic thriller “Deliverance” know the fictional Cahulawassee River where the movie was set play as much a starring role in the film as Jon Voight and Burt Reynolds. What many might not realize is the actual river where it was set runs along the top of the Northwestern border of beautiful Oconee County, where the whitewater rafting scene has exploded since the 1972 film was released. In fact, the film helped lead — literally — to that rafting explosion on the Chattooga River, and these days, three licensed rafting companies are helping thrill-seekers navigate their way down the “Crown Jewel” of the Southeast. Claude Terry worked as a consultant and stunt double in the motion picture, and when it was through, he opened Southeastern Expeditions by purchasing equipment used in the actual movie. Along with some kayaking buddies, Terry 34 • Visitors Guide
got involved with “Deliverance” after meeting with his long-time friend, Lewis King, at his Atlanta home for dinner one fall evening. That night discussions were held about the upcoming movie and the need for a great location with a river to film the production. “It was a very interesting evening,” Terry said. “We didn’t realize at the time the changes (the movie) would bring to the Chattooga,” King, who had a close relationship with both screenplay writer James Dickey and Terry, played the role of Lewis Medlock in Dickey’s screenplay. While Terry didn’t receive any face time in “Deliverance,” he assisted the actors in their navigation and safely guided them down the river during filming. After the conclusion of the movie, Terry opened Southeastern Expeditions on the Chattooga River. Terry has since passed on the torch at Southeastern Expeditions, selling it in 2005, where they still offer many
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options for thrill seekers. The Chattooga was federally protected in 1974 by the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act, forever preserving its rugged river gorge from development. Thus, the Chattooga delivers breathtaking scenery and treasured whitewater in an unmatched wilderness setting. Known as the “Crown Jewel” of the Southeast, the Chattooga was the first river east of the Mississippi to be granted the Wild and Scenic designation, and is still the only one that is commercially rafted. The Chattooga is also where Wildwater first opened its doors in 1971 and remains Wildwater’s premier rafting trip in the Southeast. Jim and Jeanette Greiner pioneered the company, along with the help of their four children. Located off U.S. Highway 76 on Academy Road in Long Creek, Wildwater’s Chattooga facility offers whitewater rafting, zipline/ canopy tours, canoe and kayak clinics, Raft & Rail© excursions, high ropes course, climbing walls, teambuilding and multiple lodging options located on the picturesque Wildwater Chattooga campus. Visitors can book their adventure to include lodging, rafting, zip-line canopy tours, kayak tours, whitewater kayak clinics, stand-up paddle boarding and overnight camping. Call 800-451-9972 or 864-6479587 or visit WildWaterRafting.com for
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
more information. The Nantahala Outdoor Center, located at 851A Chattooga Ridge Road in Mountain Rest, has been leading trips on the Chattooga since its inception in 1972, and founder Payson Kennedy was also a stunt double in “Deliverance.” NOC’s Chattooga guides are among the nation’s elite whitewater guides, according to the company’s website, and they receive industry-leading training and are also equipped with the most modern river equipment. Those interested may call 888905-7238 or visit www.NOC.com. Chattooga Whitewater Outfitters, located at 14239 Long Creek Highway in Long Creek, offers equipment rentals and nonguided trips on the West Fork, Section II and Section III areas of the Chattooga River: It offers whitewater and flatwater paddling equipment, fishing guides and equipment, tubing, hiking, camping, bird-watching and other services, and also serves pizza, salad, sandwiches, cold drinks and more at Humble Pie. Those interested may call 864-6479083 or visit www.ChattoogaAdventures. com. Southeastern Expeditions offers whitewater rafting, canoe and kayaking trips. Thier goal is to provide the finest, most enjoyable outdoor adventures like Chattooga River rafting, while maintaining the highest levels of professionalism. For more information or to schedule a trip, please call 1-800868-7238 or visit www.southeasternexpeditions.com. Though the area is beautiful and often peaceful, the currents and undercurrents of the river can be dangerous. Guide services are recommended, and please note that the US Forest Service has regulations for use of the river. Contact the Sumter National Forest Ranger’s Office at 864.638.9568. The US Forest Service commercially permits three companies to operate on the Chattooga for rafting and five companies to provide instructional clinics in whitewater canoeing and kayaking. Visitors Guide • 35
FISHING
Photo by Nia Johnson
For the angling enthusiast, Oconee County and South Carolina’s Mountain Lakes area has plenty of outstanding fishing opportunities whether you’re looking for an eventful day on the lake or a beautiful day of fly fishing in mountain streams. Here are a few highlights of what the area has to offer: Lake Jocassee With the pristine Jocassee Gorges as a backdrop, the only thing better than the scenery on this 7,500 acre Duke Energy reservoir is the great fishing for trophy brown and rainbow trout. The lake holds five state records including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, redeye bass, white bass, spotted bass, catfish, carp and rainbow, brook and brown trout species. Lake Keowee This 18,372.acre Duke Energy reservoir was created as a water supply for Duke’s power generation operations and has earned a 36 • Visitors Guide
reputation as a great spotted bass lake. Also available are largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, redeye bass, crappie, catfish and trout. Lake Hartwell At 56,000 acres, this U.S. Corps of Engineers impoundment is well known for its trophy striped bass, as well as largemouth and spotted bass species. The prestigious Bassmaster Classic was held on the lake in 2008. In addition, the lake offers plentiful bream, crappie, catfish and hybrid striped bass. Lake Tugaloo As the pick up point for rafters and paddlers from the Chattooga River, this 600 acre mountain gem holds one of only a handful of walleye populations in the state. The remote access is located off SC Hwy. 76 near Long Creek and the 20 HP motor restrictions make it a haven for canoe and kayak anglers. Fish found in the lake also include bream, crappie, largemouth bass, white bass and catfish.
#scmountainlakes
www.SCMountainLakes.com
Oconee State Park Lying within the boundaries of the 1,165 acre Oconee State Park on Hwy. 107 above Mountain Rest, the park’s two fishing lakes offer bass, bream, catfish and seasonal trout fishing, as well as paddle boat rentals. With camping and lodging accommodations on site, this location put anglers within easy reach of prime stream fishing in the Chauga and Chattooga rivers and the Oconee State Fish Hatchery. Chattooga River Listed as one of the nation’s best wild and scenic rivers, the 57 mile long Chattooga forms the border between South Carolina and Georgia and offers world class fly casting opportunities for trout. The river houses wild trout populations supported by regular stockings from Oconee County’s Walhalla State Fish Hatchery and is championed by the local Chattooga River Chapter of Trout Unlimited. You can fish for smallmouth and redeye bass, bluegill, catfish, brown brook and rainbow trout. Chauga River The “little sister” to the Chattooga, the Chauga River offers a downsized version of the Chattooga’s world class wild trout fly fishing also supported by hatchery trout in a more intimate setting that is easily wadeable across its upper reaches. Some remote camping facilities are also available right on the banks of the river. Trout and redeye bass are the main targets. Eastatoe River The Eastatoe River in nearby northern Pickens County offers fly angling for wild rainbows in a spectacular wilderness setting, spin and bait fishing for hatchery supported trout with easy and convenient access, and the opportunity to tangle with trophy size brown trout. ■ LICENSING South Carolina fishing licenses are available at many retail outlets in the area, online from the Department of Natural Resources, www. dnr.sc.gov/purchase.html or visit the SCDNR Clemson Office, 311 Natural Resources Drive, Clemson. Phone: 864.654.8266. The cost of a resident freshwater fishing license is $10 annual and $5 for a 14-day permit. Nonresident fees are $35 annually and $11 for a seven-day permit. No additional stamps are required. CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
■ PRIVATE FISHING LAKE Go Fish! 461 Williams Farm Road, Westminster www.gofishupstate.com 864.886.6886 ■ BOAT RENTALS & GUIDED LAKE TOURS Clemson Marina 150 Clemson Marina Dr, Seneca 864.653.6767 www.clemsonmarina.us
Boat Rentals PONTOONS KAYAKS CANOES PADDLEBOARDS Snack Bar, Ice Cream, Supplies & Accessories
ECLECTIC SUN LLC ON LAKE JOCASSEE
DEVILS FORK STATE PARK PAVILION 238 Buckeye Drive Salem, SC 29676
864/944-1191 www.eclecticsun.com info@eclecticsun.com HOURLY
TO
MULTIDAY RATES
DELIVERING TO LAKES KEOWEE & JOCASSEE
Visitors Guide • 37
Fishski Business LLC Guided Fishing 864.353.3438 www.fishski.info Lakes: Hartwell, Jocassee
Eclectic Sun LLC Devils Fork State Park Pavilion 238 Buckeye Drive, Salem www.eclecticsun.com 864-944-1191 Jocassee-Keowee Rentals www.lakejocassee.com/services/pontoon_ boat_rentals.aspx 864.704.0004 Jocassee Outdoor Center 516 Jocassee Lake Rd, Salem www.jocasseeoutdoorcenter.com 864.944.9016
Fowler Fishing 864.934.5813 www.fowlerfishing.com Green’s Guide Service 864.277.2463 www.palmettostateteamtrail.com Jocassee Charters Fishing & Lake Tours 864.280.9056 www.jocasseecharters.com Lakes: Jocassee
Jocassee Lake Tours www.JocasseeLakeTours.com brooksandkay@JocasseeLakeTours.com 864.280.5501 Lake Hartwell Paddleboard and Kayak Westminster www.lakehartwellpaddleboardandkayak.com 864-648-9695 Lake Keowee Marina 150 Keowee Marina Dr., Seneca, www.lakekeoweemarina.com 864.882.2047 Tri-County Boat Rental Six Mile www.tri-countyboatrental.com 864-617-9187 Providing upscale, clean, safe and dependable watercraft, while striving for outstanding customer service. We deliver to all area lakes.
Keith Courtney 864.638-9433 www.fishjocassee.com Lake Hartwell Fishing Charters 864.608.2763 www.lakehartwellfishingcharters.com Lake Jocassee Guide Service 864.557.0475 www.jocasseefishing.com Lakes: Jocassee River Blade Knife & Fly Guide Service 864.699.9433 www.riverbladeknifeandfly.com
Ultimate Action Sports LLC 187 Boone Creek Rd, Salem www.keoweewatersports.com 864.944.1887
■ LOCAL BAIT & TACKLE SHOPS The Bait Shop 105 Jenkins Circle, Townville 864.287.5005
■ FISHING GUIDES Carolina Outdoorsman E-mail: montym@innova.net, 864.647.7410 cotvshow.com via contact page
Chattooga River Fly Shop 6832-A Highlands Hwy, Mountain Rest www.chattoogariverflyshop.com 864.638.2806
Capt. Bill’s Fishing Adventures 864.287.2120, 864.230.7363 www.lakehartwellfishing.com Lakes: Hartwell
Dickson Tractor Inc. 303 E. North Ave, Westminster 864.647.0791
Chattooga River Fly Shop Guide Service 864.638.2806 www.chattoogariverflyshop.com
Jocassee Outdoor Center 516 Jocassee Lake Rd., Salem 864.944.9016
38 • Visitors Guide
#scmountainlakes
www.SCMountainLakes.com
Casey Ashley won the FLW Tournament at Lake Hartwell.
Only at Ultimate Action Sports can you choose your own riding location! We deliver to any approved commercial marina or official public launch ramp on Lake Keowee or Lake Jocassee. We will also deliver to your rental home’s dock so that you don’t have to transport the craft there yourself allowing you to spend more time enjoying your vacation.
Ultimate Action Sports LLC
Fishski Business LLC... South Carolina has some great fishing, charter your trip today and we’ll take you to where the lunkers are. Lake Hartwell is known for it’s Stripers, but also holds good populations of Largemouth Bass and Catfish. - The average Striper weighs in at 3-10 lbs. - Stripers can get up to 60 lbs. - All Bait and Tackle included
Salem, SC 29676
For reservations call (864) 944-1887
www.KeoweeWaterSports.com CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Capt. Steve Pietrykowski Phone: 864.353.3438
www.HartwellGuidedFishing.com Visitors Guide • 39
SHE HAS AN ISSAQUEENA SMILE Exceptionally healthy. Exceedingly attractive. Only available at Issaqueena Prosthodontics. Craig A. Horton DMD, MS
GET IT DONE IN YEAR ONE!
314 Union Station Drive, Seneca • 864-482-7500 • issaqueenadental.com
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry The American Academy recommends that a child’s first visit to the dentist should occur by their firstDentistry birthday. of Pediatric Schedule your child's appointment today!
recommends that a child’s first visit to the dentist should occur by their first birthday. Schedule your child's appointment today!
Our practice specializes in infants, children, adolescents and patients with special healthcare needs
Our practice specializes in infants, children, adolescents and patients with special healthcare needs
314 Union Station Drive Hwy 123-Between Clemson and Seneca www.issaqueenadental.com
864-482-7900
CamilleW.W.Horton, Horton, DMD Camille DMD Diplomate of the American Board Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry of Pediatric Dentistry
314 Union Station Drive
Hwy 123 – Between Clemson and Seneca
Smart Home Security from the Ground Up
We don’t sell systems, we create security solutions. A subsidiary of Blue Ridge Electric Co-op
1-888-407-SAFE (7233) blueridgesecuritysolutions.com
BIKING Known to local cyclists, Oconee County, SC is a hidden jewel for road cycling. There are numerous secondary roads with great mountain and lake scenic views with little traffic. One can choose from moderate rides with rolling country roads to challenging climbs into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The area is so well suited for road cycling that the Canadian Cycling teams have been coming to Oconee for training for well over 15 years. They stay in our state park cabins, lake front vacation rental homes and hotels and accumulate hundreds of miles of mountainous road biking during their stay. There are 3 annual cycling events in Oconee County beginning in April with Issaqueena’s Last Ride (www.ILRSC.com), followed by Rally in the Valley (www. oconeeforever.org/rallyvalley) and Road Titans 300 (roadtitans300.com) 100 mile challenge each day for three days in September. Route maps are available on their web sites, so you can ride during the event or at your leisure. With numerous route options and the quiet, scenic roads, visiting cyclists will understand what local cyclists have known for years - Oconee County, SC is a great cycling destination. Photos by Rylan Terry
42 • Visitors Guide
#scmountainlakes
www.SCMountainLakes.com
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 43
Chattooga Belle Farm Kenny Fey Photography
GATHER
for Weddings, Meetings, Group Tours or Reunions
Nestled among the Blue Ridge Mountains, Oconee County offers the perfect setting for memorable experiences. There may not be a place in the Southeast better suited to bring your organization or corporate team for a getaway than the Mountain Lakes Region of Oconee County. And, the Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau can arrange your group needs at a location that fits your needs. Contact us to help locate the proper venue for meetings, tour group itineraries, wedding or a family reunion. The MLCVB can locate the venue and provides services including finding lodging, caterers, technical equipment and support, photographers and entertainment. The beautiful mountains, rivers and streams of the mountain region are a perfect setting for your event. Contact us today to help with your next gathering at Charlotte@SCMountainLakes.com.
Chattooga Belle Farm (Zone 3) 454 Damascus Church Road Long Creek, SC 29658 864-647-9768 www.chattoogabellefarm.com Chau Ram Park (Zone 3) 1220 Chau Ram Park Road Westminster, SC 29693 864-647-9286 www.experienceoconee.com
1
Icon Key Meeting Space Group Tours Wedding Space Cabins / Campgrounds
Walhalla
Smoke-Free Options Washer/Dryer Available <10 mi. from water Swimming Pool
Restaurant
Lodging
3
Seneca Westminster
2
Sport Facilities
Fitness Center
Trails
Kitchen
Trails
44 â&#x20AC;˘ Visitors Guide
West Union
Complimentary Breakfast
Bed & Breakfast Agriculture Tourism
Salem
Zone Map #scmountainlakes
www.SCMountainLakes.com
Cross Creek Plantation (Zone 2) 130 Club Drive Seneca, SC 29678 864-882-8337 www.crosscreekplantation.com Biggerstaff Christian Retreat Center (Zone 2)
398 Biggerstaff Road Seneca, SC 29672 864-882-3337 biggerstaffctr@bellsouth.net Devils Fork State Park (Zone 1) 161 Holcombe Circle Salem, SC 29676 864-944-2639 devilsfork@scprt.com Diakonia Retreat Center (Zone 1) 455 Quail Ridge Road Salem, SC 29676 864-944-6788 www.diakoniaretreatcenter.org
Photo by Kenny Fey Photography
Ceremony & Reception Venue
See weddings for every month of the year at www.magnoliamanorbb.com or find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MagnoliaManorBB 207 Westminster Hwy,Westminster, SC 29693 Glenn and JoAnn Blake, hosts
864-647-8559
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide â&#x20AC;˘ 45
Gignilliant Center in Seneca (Zone 2) 621 N. Townville Street Seneca, SC 29678 864-885-2709 www.seneca.sc.us Hidden Cove at Lake Keowee (Zone 2) Shaver Recreation Complex (Zone 2) 698 W. S. 4th Street Seneca, SC 29678 864-885-2709 www.seneca.sc.us
150 Keowee Marina Drive Seneca, SC 29672 864-280-7202 www.ATHIDDENCOVE.COM High Falls Park (Zone 2) 671 High Falls Road Seneca, SC 29672 864-882-8234 www.experienceoconee.com
South Cove Park (Zone 2) 1031 South Cove Road Seneca, SC 29672 864-882-5250 www.experienceoconee.com
Historic Ballenger House (Zone 2) 212 E. S. Third Street Seneca, SC 29678 864-324-8417 www.ballengerhouse.org
Tamassee DAR (Zone 1) 1925 Bumgardner Drive Tamassee, SC 29686 864-944-1390 www.tdarschool.org
Keowee Key The Club (Zone 1) 130 Club Drive 1 Country Club Lane Salem, SC 29676 864-944-2155
The Lighthouse of Lake Keowee (Zone 2)
Magnolia Manor Bed and Breakfast (Zone 3)
1290 Doug Hollow Road Seneca, SC 29672 864-888-4446 www.lighthousekeowee.com
207 Westminster Hwy Westminster, SC 29693 864-647-8559 www.magnoliamanorbb.com
The Vault (Zone 2) 215 N. Townville Street Seneca, SC 29678 864-483-2994
Oconee State Park (Zone 1)
Walhalla Civic Auditorium (Zone 1) 101 E. North Broad Street Walhalla, SC 29691 864-638-5277 www.walhallacivic.com
624 State Park Road Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864-638-5353 Old Saint Johns Meeting House & Wedding Chapel (Zone 1) West South Broad Street Walhalla, SC 29691 863-638-2727 www.walhallachamber.com
Walhalla Depot at Kaufman Square (Zone 1) 201 South College Street Walhalla, SC 29691 864-638-2727 www.walhallachamber.com Westminster Depot (Zone 3) 135 East Main Street Westminster, SC 29693 864-647-5316 www.westminstersc.com
46 â&#x20AC;˘ Visitors Guide
#scmountainlakes
www.SCMountainLakes.com
, r e t s n i Westm SC
The City of Westminster is a small town in Oconee County along the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s full of charm with quaint shops along its historic Main Street. Local residents enjoy a leisurely paced lifestyle, and are afforded a wide variety of recreational opportunities by the surrounding rivers, lakes, forests, mountains and golf courses. Westminster is a great place to visit, but it’s even a nicer place to live and work. With award winning schools, a small town feel, and a progressive plan for continued renewal, it offers families and retirees a perfect place to call home. Stroll the street and enjoy the wonderful architecture. Westminster boasts more than one hundred homes that are unique to the turn-of-the-century. Many local merchants and home owners proudly display a quilt block on their building that is representative of a family heirloom. With lovely crepe myrtle-lined streets, we hope you will visit us again and again. Below is a listing of events. Please visit our web site at westminstersc.com for additional opportunities throughout the year.
Year-round art exhibits are on display at the Historic Westminster Depot 1st Friday April –October – Music on Main with Classic Car Cruise In Tuesday Afternoon, June – October - Farmers Market at Historic Depot May 6-7 – Mayberry Days on Main Street September 7-10 – South Carolina Apple Festival October 31 – Boo on Main December 1 – Westminster Christmas Parade For a complete listing of Chamber events visit westminstersc.com A schedule of entertainment for the Westminster Music Hall can be found at www.westminstermusichall.com
(864) 647-5316
WeSellKeowee.com ~ Since 2004 Global & Luxury Home Specialists!
Moving Lake Keowee All Day, Every Day!
The Patti & Gary Cason Team 窶適eller Williams Lake Keowee Our 2015 Closed Sales Total $33,777,579
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Patti Cason
Assoc. Broker, ALHS
(864) 903-1234
WeSellKeowee@gmail.com
Gary Cason Realtor
(864) 903-0312
The City Of
WALHALLA
Invites you to explore our trails!
Wrapped within the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Walhalla offers trails of opportunities. Enjoy the great outdoors as you travel our byways that lead to waterfalls, rivers and lakes. Experience history along the footpaths of our museums that tell the stories of culture that made Walhalla a special destination. Walk the aisles of the Walhalla Civic Auditorium as you enjoy one of the many shows from their historic stage. Follow the route of the Upstate Quilt Trail as it takes you to public and private exhibits of quilt heritage. Let Main Street lead you to wonderful antique and specialty shops and restaurants that are sure to appeal to any palate. Walhalla, as the Upstate Terminus for the Palmetto Conservation Trail , will host National Trails Day, June 4, 2016. May 13 & 14, 2016
The Mayfest Art of Living festival welcomes spring as artisans with their creations line Main Street and local musicians fill the air with a variety of music that guarantees to move the soul. For more information, visit www.walhallachamber.com
WESTMINSTER WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL Westminster embodies a small town full of Southern charm. Widely known for Mayberry Days in May and the Apple Festival that happens every year the week after Labor Day, Westminster has something to offer throughout the year. Quaint shops line Old Main Street making it a perfect location for an afternoon of strolling and shopping. Venture around town to experience more than 100 architectural homes and churches built in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Just a short ride from town is Chau Ram Park. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, camping and more. Soak up the sun on the boulders facing Ramsey Creek Falls.
from Englandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s General Merchandise of Westminster, which operated for nearly 100 years on Main Street.
Westminster Music Hall is housed in a 100year old building that once was a grocery store. The hall is a performance venue built by musicians for musicians. This 250-seat room has a state-of-the art sound and lighting systems designed to give both the performers and the audience the best possible concert experience.
MUST SEE Just across the street from the historical Westminster Depot, step back in time to the OHC General Store Museum. It is a replica of a general store, complete with original items 50 â&#x20AC;˘ Visitors Guide
#scmountainlakes
www.SCMountainLakes.com
Looking for that salvaged window or door that reminds you of your grandmother’s house? Old Oakway Architectural Salvage is a business that specializes in house and barn reclamation in the Upstate. Browse their warehouse to find that unique item for your home. FOOD & DRINK A bit out of the way but worth the drive, Brasstown Creek BBQ offers amazing BBQ that is cooked daily as if they were cooking for the family. Enjoy a game of horseshoes or sitting by the river before or after dinner. Open Friday and Saturday evenings at 4, so get there early because they often sell out.
From April to October enjoy Music On Main the first Friday each month in conjunction with Westminster Depot Cruise-in. SHOPPING Barrett’s Trading Company – camping gear/ outdoor 128 East Main Street Dads & Lads – boots/clothing 224 East Main Street Palmetto Home Place – 103 East King Street Wishbook Furnishing – 204 East Main Street Old Oakway Architectural Salvage - 224 East Main Street, info@oldoakway.com Morning Baron’s AntiquesSunshine – 2020 Toccoa Highway Morning Sunshine
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528 Bypass 123, Suite B Seneca, SC 29678 M-F: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Follow Us on Facebook
Visitors Guide • 51
The PowerView Pebble is available in seven colors.
54397
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WALHALLA WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL Walhalla is an 1850 German settlement town, is rich in culture and history. Conveniently situated between Charlotte and Atlanta, a short drive will transport you a million miles away from the stress and anxiety of the big city. Waterfalls, hiking and biking trails, or boating on the pristine waters of our beautiful lakes will set your soul on the path of tranquility. Already home to the Foothills Trail and recently named the future Upstate Terminus for The Palmetto Conservation Trail, Walhalla is truly the end or beginning of a fabulous trek across our beautiful state inviting the more adventurous seeker to hike or bike our trails. Challenging whitewater of the picturesque Chattooga River is just
Stumphouse Tunnel
a few minute drive from our tree lined Main Street. Large oak and maple trees sit along the sidewalks that pass in front of our graceful churches and grand homes whispering of times past. We’ve got mountains, lakes and rivers. We’ve got sights to make you shiver. Renew your spirit in beautiful Walhalla! MUST SEE Our history and heritage is shared within walking distance of each other. Located in the center of town, the Oconee Heritage Center is located in the old Tobacco Factory (c. 1892) and provides a spacious exhibit hall with a vast collection of artifacts that illustrate the diverse history and heritage of Oconee. Walking next door, the Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina. It features local Cherokee artifacts, artwork, copies of treaties and other information relating to the Cherokee Lower Towns of South Carolina. Across the street in the “Old Rock Building” Patriots’ Hall lets you visit the legacy of heroes who bravely fought for our country. Our arts are shared throughout the year at the Walhalla Civic Auditorium. Formerly a grade school and listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, the refurbished venue hosts a wide variety of performers from differing genres including Steele Drivers to Glen Miller. The auditorium also hosts theatrical performances and community events.
SHOPPING The Old Trading Post – antiques 222 E. Main Street The Strutting Peacock – gifts 124 E Main Street, Ste D Middle of Main Antiques & Gifts – 124C E Main Street Farmhouse Interiors & Gallery – gifts/art 124 E Main Street FOOD & DRINK Our eateries offer a range of dining options from cafeteria style to al-fresco. Menus include the area’s best fried chicken at Walhalla Steakhouse Cafeteria, pizzas, subs and salads from Carolina Pizza Company, breakfast, sandwiches and “blue plate special” at Martha’s Marketplace Café, and a meat and three at Pete’s Drive In. You’ll find barbeque at Hot Hog Diggity Dog and 3 Amigos Mexican Grill serves Mexican cuisine and margaritas. Palmetto Sweets & Company offers dining and catering. Enjoy CC Fudge & More’s ice cream, fudge and more!
The Vintage Market, LLC
•Home Decor • Antiques • Collectibles • Glassware • Jewelry • Furniture • Outdoor Furniture 168 Scenic Plaza Drive | West Union, SC 29696 (Next to Ingles on Scenic Hwy 11 & 28)
864-638-9696
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 53
SENECA WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL Nestled between beautiful mountain lakes and rich farmland, Seneca is an artistic city filled with murals, live music, and eclectic shops. Once a bustling railroad town, Seneca has grown into a city filled with boutique shops, delicious restaurants, and activities all year long. Whether you like to jump in the boat for the weekend or join in the festivities of the city’s many events like Jazz on the Alley, Cruizin on Main, and Seneca Fest - you’ll find your niche here. It’s no wonder, the city has been ranked the #1 Place to Retire in SC and The Best Place to Start a Business.
tution underscoring the rich, colorful, turbulent story and impact of the local African American community. Just a short drive from downtown Seneca, you can enjoy swimming, boating or a picnic at South Cove County Park. This is situated on Lake Keowee with camping and RV’s available on a peninsula. Enjoy the unique shops that line the streets of Ram Cat Alley. The Alley got its unusual name because of the many cats who gathered around the meat and fish markets in the early 1900s. Locals used to say there were so many of them, “you couldn’t ram another cat into the alley!” Enjoy the unique shops and hunt for the painted cats though out the downtown area. FOOD & DRINK
MUST SEE The City of Seneca is excited to announce the opening of the Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum in 2016. It is the second city-owned museum and will be an inclusive cultural insti54 • Visitors Guide
The shrimp & grits at The Lighthouse, overlooking Lake Keowee, is one of the most popular menu items in town. Sole’ Grill and Sushi Bar is a cozy spot to gather with friends for great food and conver-
#scmountainlakes
www.SCMountainLakes.com
sation, reservations are recommended. The Spot on the Alley is Seneca’s finest sports bar and restaurants. Located in the heart of Seneca’s downtown historic district on Ram Cat Alley, customers can enjoy bingo, trivia night or Jazz on the Alley. SHOPPING Green Springs – gifts 112 Ram Cat Alley The Healthy Olive – oils & gifts 111 Ram Cat Alley M. Tannery & Sons – gifts 112 Ram Cat Alley The Red Door – Gifts/home décor 120 Ram Cat Alley Rob & Reana’s Jewelry by Design – 125 Ram Cat Alley
Jazz on the Alley Sensibly Chic – baskets/home décor 124 Ram Cat Alley Distinctive Finishes Studio – antiques 111 Ram Cat Alley Patina on the Alley – antiques 114 Ram Cat Alley The Purple Sunflower – antiques 125 Townville St Elegant & Distinctive - fine furniture 708 By Pass 123 Heartwarmers – gifts 337 Market Street Emily’s – boutique 263 Market Street Hochstetler’s Country Store – gifts 1470 S Walnut St Patio & Fireside – 10239 Clemson Blvd #100 Arts of the Alley – 123 N Townville St
Hwy. 123 • Seneca
708 Bypass 123, Seneca 864.888.0505 www.elegantdistinctive.com
Aldi GNC Rue 21 Pizza Hut Belk Body & Bath Works Radio Shack Game Stop Cato K-Mart Dollar Tree China Wok Turner’s Jewelers Family Christian Stores Pet Smart Artistry Hair & Skin Baker’s Dogs Kings Nails & Spa Shoe Show Hair Masters Unlimited Talk The UPS Store 1st Franklin Financial Hibbett Sports Ultra Tan Mattress Firm coming soon
LONG CREEK WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL Long Creek is a rural community in western Oconee County, South Carolina. It is surrounded by the Sumter National Forest in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The area is an outdoor recreational paradise! The Chattooga River borders Long Creek, and is one of the wildest and most beautiful whitewater rivers in the country. The Chattooga was the first river in the Southeast to be designated “Wild & Scenic” in 1974 by Congress. Long Creek became famous when the area was used as the location for the movie “Deliverance”. Outdoor enthusiasts come to Long Creek to enjoy the natural setting of the Chattooga River for whitewater rafting, kayaking, swimming, fishing, hiking and zip-line canopy tours. There are numerous forested hiking trails and over 20 waterfalls in Long Creek. Since the 1950’s Long Creek has been home to apple orchards, and was once the largest apple producing area east of the Mississippi. There are still numerous apple farms in the area and roadside produce stands sell seasonal apples and other locally grown produce. MUST SEE Fall is a great time to visit local roadside produce stands. Bryson’s U-Pick Apple Orchard allows you to bring the family and pick your own apples or peaches. Bring your bicycle and enjoy the hills while traveling to different orchards. On a Friday evening don’t miss local bluegrass music starting at 7pm at the Sil56 • Visitors Guide
ver Dollar Music Hall. And for you adrenaline junkies, take flight at Wildwater’s Chattooga Ridge Canopy Tour. While in flight above the forest floor blanketed with mountain laurel, rhododendron, and other native plants, watch for hawks, deer and other wildlife.
FOOD & DRINK Chattooga Belle Farm is a 138-acre working farm featuring a u-pick operation with apple and peach orchards, grapes and muscadines, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, and more! This hidden gem is in the shadow of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy the amazing view while having lunch at the Belle’s Bistro open May- November 3rd. Do as rafters do and grab a bite at Humble Pie. This is a local hangout that offers great hand tossed pizza The Lodge at Chattooga River Resort provides casual dining with the only full bar in Long Creek. Enjoying both indoor and outdoor stages for live entertainment Friday and Saturday nights during summer and fall season.
#scmountainlakes
www.SCMountainLakes.com
Blue Haven Orchards
Chattooga River
R afting !
Always a Great Way to Say Delicious! OPEN March - mid December Call for Seasonal Hours We Ship Apples!
We also carry a variety of jams, jellies, ciders, canned goods, peanuts and more...
The Chattooga is Wildwater’s premier rafting trip in the Southeast. Our highly trained guides will make your Chattooga River trip one to remember! Many trip options for all experience levels.
Try one of our cider slushies!
12508 Long Creek Hwy • Long Creek, SC
864.647.2855
www.BlueHavenOrchards.com bluehaven@netmds.com
DON’T MISS AN ISSUE OF THE AREA’S MOST POPULAR MAGAZINE! Upstate lakes attract paddlers year-round
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1251 Academy Road • Long Creek, SC 864-647-9587 • 866-319-8867
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4 issues! Upstate Lake Living offers popular features such as boating, fishing, nearby places to visit, restaurant reviews, home features and waterfalls, as well as a calendar of events.
1011 Chattooga Ridge Rd. Mountain Rest, SC 29664
Off Hwy. 76 in Long Creek, North onto Chattooga Ridge Rd. There will be a sign. Apple stand 1 mile on right. All Groups Welcome, Trucks, Schools, Churches
CLOSES NOVEMBER 30TH OPEN 7 DAYS 9:00 AM-6:00 PM
subscribe now! call 864.882.2375 CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Wholesale or Retail 864-647-9427 CIDER, JELLY, HONEY, SYRUP & OTHER CANNED GOODS
Visitors Guide • 57
TOWNS FAIR PLAY
NEWRY
Fair Play is made up of farming and lake communities. Lake rentals and Lake Hartwell State Park provide opportunities for families to enjoy the lake. Suggested restaurants include Anelo Grill, The Spotted Pig, The Gazebo Restaurant and Carolina Pizza Company. WEST UNION Located between Seneca and Walhalla, people are attracted to West Union because of its shoreline on Keowee Key. Just a few miles from shopping, one can put a boat in and enjoy a day on the lake. Stop for a bite to eat at Puerto Nuevo Mexican & Seafood Restaurant. Shopping includes: Fine Designs -1451W. Main Street, Uncle Fred’s Warehouse – 101 North Hwy 11 or The Vintage Market – 168 Scenic Plaza Dr
58 • Visitors Guide
Once the first textile mill village in Oconee County, now the abandoned textile plant still stands. Newry is just off the shores of Lake Keowee, (sorry no lake access) and on the National Register of Historic Places. MOUNTAIN REST Mountain Rest is your heaven for all your outdoor adventures. Enjoy hiking the Foothills Trails starting at Oconee State Park. Or visit the Walhalla Fish Hatchery which is the only trout hatchery in the state of South Carolina. SALEM The small town of Salem is located just off of Scenic Highway 11, and is a gateway to both the Blue Ridge Mountains and Lakes Jocassee and Keowee. Originally a lumber town with six sawmills, Salem became an agricultural town latching onto cotton production. Today it’s well known for fantastic home sites, outdoor activities and mountain adventures. Just minutes from Salem are the gated communities of Cliffs at Keowee Falls, Cliffs Vineyards, The Reserve at Lake Keowee and Keowee Key, each with a renowned signature golf course. Suggested restaurants include Keowee Towne Café and Sisters Restaurant.
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www.SCMountainLakes.com
Education. Energized.
Education goes beyond the classroom.
That’s why curious minds are always welcome at Duke Energy’s WORLD OF ENERGY, the education center at Oconee Nuclear Station. More than 3 million visitors have enjoyed our exhibits for over 40 years. All for free. Come see our brand-new Global Balance station, featuring a giant interactive globe. Try your hand at one of our computer games. Explore the Story of Energy exhibit. Get outside and hike our nature trail by beautiful Lake Keowee. Or come out to one of our monthly events, featuring live music, educational lectures, movies and art shows, just to name a few. Calendar of events Mar 26: Spring Egg Drop Mar 28-31: Energize Your Mind Series July 15: Outdoor Movie “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”
7812 Rochester Highway Seneca, S.C. 800-777-1004 www.duke-energy.com\worldofenergy
Realty Professionals Lake Keowee
Linda Duryea (864) 719-0419
Wayne Montague (864) 710-6269
Darren Phillis (864) 710-1582
Carol Patterson
Kim Gasque (864) 324-2373
Beth Wilson (864) 903-2194
Let RE/MAX be your guide. We know the Lake Keowee area and we care enough to get to know you too!
Salem 11
alla
(864) 293-2853
130
We Are Here
183
lh Wa
130
123
Open Mon-Sat 9-5 and Sun 1-5 (864) 944-5559
Exit 1
Seneca
Clemson
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Located on Hwy 130
RE/MAX Realty Professional-Lake Keowee 305 McCall Brothers Drive, Suite A, Salem, SC 29676 Search for homes at www.movingtolakekeowee.com
RELAX
Lodging Information
➥ Cabins Lake Hartwell State Park (Zone 2) 19138-A South Hwy. 11, Fair Play, SC 29643 864.972.3352 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder
Chattooga Belle Farm’s Horseshoe Lake Cabin (Zone 3) 454 Damascus Church Rd., Long Creek, SC 29658 864.647.9768 www.chattoogabellefarm.com
The Cabins (Zone 2) P. O. Box 219, Fair Play, SC 29643 864.972.1508, www.valuecom.com/lakecabins Chattooga Ridge Cottages (Zone 3) Chattooga Rafting Center Long Creek, SC 29658 800.451.9972 www.wildwaterrafting.com/cabins.php
1
Salem
Icon Key Meeting Space Group Tours
Kitchen
Wedding Space
Smoke-Free Options
Restaurant Agriculture Tourism Internet Fitness Ceneter
West Union
Complimentary Breakfast
Cabins / Campgrounds Bed & Breakfast
Walhalla
Washer/Dryer Available <10 mi. from water
3
Swimming Pool
Seneca Westminster
2
Lodging Sport Facilities Trails CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Zone Map Visitors Guide • 61
Mountain Rest Cabins & Campground (Zone 3) 175 Homeland Dr., Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.718.0333, www.mountainrestcamping. com Oconee State Park (Zone 1) 624 State Park Rd., Mountain Rest, SC 29664 866.345.PARK, 864.638.5353 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder Chattooga River Resort 14239 Hwy 76 (Long Creek Hwy) Long Creek, SC 29658 www.chattoogaresort.com 864.873.7310 ➥ Hotels Best Western (Zone 2) 511 US Hwy. 123-By Pass, Seneca, SC 29678 864.886.9646, 800.WESTERN www.bestwestern.com Days Inn (Zone 2) 11015 N. Radio Station Rd., Seneca, SC 29678 US Hwy. 123 & Route 28 864.885.0710, 800.329.7466 www.daysinn.com
➥ Bed and Breakfast Sunrise Farm B&B (Zone 1) 325 Sunrise Dr., Salem, SC 29676 864.944.0121 www.SunriseFarmBB.com
“Your country home-away-from-home in the SC upcountry.” Sunrise Farm Bed and Breakfast is the perfect place to rest after a full day of outdoor fun at nearby attractions, including breathtaking waterfalls, numerous state parks and historical sites, antique shopping opportunities, dozens of hiking trails and Clemson University. Choose from four spacious, c.1890 Victorian bedrooms with private baths, or one of two private cottages.
Lowry House Inn (Zone 2) 206 S. Fairplay St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.888.0122, 888.290.9686 www.lowryhouseinn.com Magnolia Manor (Zone 3) 207 Westminster Hwy., Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.8559, www.magnoliamanorbb.com
Hampton Inn & Suites (Zone 2) 1011 East North 1st Street, Seneca, SC 29678 864.482.2900 1-800-Hampton www.hamptoninn.com Quality Inn (Zone 2) 226 Hi-Tech Rd., Seneca, SC 29678 864.888.8300, 800.JAMESON www.jamesoninns.com
Where Livin’ Is Easy
Waterfront Cottages
Chattooga River Resort (Zone 3) 14239 Hwy 76 (Long Creek Hwy) Long Creek, SC 29658 www.chattoogaresort.com 864.873.7310 Relax Inn (Zone 3) 109 E. Windsor St., Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.2045
...Build a Lifetime of Memories New & Resale Cottages Furnished & Unfurnished from $129,900 to $395,000 www.backwaterlanding.com 1224 Melton Rd. • 864-888-1133
62 • Visitors Guide
#scmountainlakes
Mon-Fri: 1-5, Sat & Sun: 11-5 and always available by appointment.
www.SCMountainLakes.com
Corkscrew Cabin at Wildwater
Three Pines View (Zone 1) 151 Shack Hollow Rd, Salem, SC 29676 www.threepinesview.com 864-784-2974 ➥ Vacation Rental Homes Bob Hill Realty (Zone 2) 528D ByPass 123, Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.0855, www.bobhillrealty.com Carolina Home Real Estate (Zone 2) 102 N. Fairplay St. Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.6670 www.carolinahomesc.com Mountain Lakes Vacation Rentals 800.610.0020, www.mtnlakes.com Offering a selection of over 60 privately owned lakefront homes with docks throughout the Lake Hartwell/Keowee area since 1996. Our website provides details, photos, locations and online reservations. This is our GUARANTEE to you: “If, upon arrival, you are dissatisfied we will provide a suitable alternative or we will promptly refund your money.”
Top Gun Realty 864.784.9977 www.homeaway.com/Vacation-rentals/ South-Carolina-vacation-rentals.htm
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Bear Pond Cabin (Zone 1) 307 Hyatt Dr., Salem, SC 29676 864.877.7558, www.scvacationcabin.com Carolina Mountain Lakes (Zone 1) Lake Cherokee, Tamassee, SC 704.467.4062 www.carolinamountainlakes.com Devils Fork State Park (Zone 1) 161 Holcombe Cir., Salem, SC 29676 866.345.PARK, 864.944.2639 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder Jocassee Lodge (Zone 1) Lake Jocassee, Salem, SC 29676 864.517.3601 www.jocasseelodge.com Keowee Key Rentals (Zone 1) 1390 Stamp Creek Rd., Salem, SC 29676 864.944.2400, 800.537.5253 www.1stchoicerealty-sc.com Maple Crest Lake Jocassee (Zone 1) 694 Jocassee Lake Rd., Salem, SC 29676 864.719.9494, www.jocassee-vacation.com Robinson Lake Front Lodge at Jocassee (Zone 1) Salem, SC 864.616.1273 www.jocasseelakehouse.com Visitors Guide • 63
South Cove County Park (Zone 2)
Vacation Rental By Owner (Zone 2) Lake Keowee, Seneca, SC 770.717.1516, www.vrbo.com/96259 Villas of Foxwood Hills (Zone 3) 10 Kinston Manor Dr., Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.9533, 800.477.3155 www.foxwoodhillsresort.com ➥ Camp Sites and RV Sites Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area 19138-A South Hwy 11, Fair Play, SC 29643 864.972.3352 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder Mountain Rest Cabins and Campground 175 Homeland Dr., Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.718.0333, www.mountainrestcamping.com Devils Fork State Park 161 Holcombe Cir., Salem, SC 29676 866.345.PARK, 864.944.2639 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder Oconee State Park 624 State Park Rd., Mountain Rest, SC 29664 866.345.PARK, 864.638.5353 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder High Falls County Park (Zone 2) 671 High Falls Rd., Seneca, SC 29672 864.882.8234, www.experienceoconee.com Oconee Point (Zone 2) 200 Oconee Point Rd., Seneca, SC 29678 888.893.0678, www.reserveamerica.com
64 • Visitors Guide
1099 South Cove Rd., Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.5250, www.experienceoconee.com Coneross Park (Zone 2) 699 Coneross Park Rd., Townville, SC 29689 888.893.0678, www.reserveamerica.com Crooked Creek RV Park (Zone 1) 777 Arvee Ln., West Union, SC 29696 864.882.5040, www.crookedcreekrvpark.com Chau Ram County Park (Zone 3) 1220 Chau Ram Park Rd. Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.9286, www.experienceoconee.com Carolina Landing (Zone 2) Fair Play, SC 29643 864-972-9892 Chattooga Sounds Camp (Zone 3) 2851 Damascus Church Road Long Creek, SC 29658 864.647.6196, 864.710.8032 http://www.chattoogasounds.com Long Creek Campground (Zone 1) 165 Raines Rd, Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.647.1938 www.longcreekcampground.com Keowee Falls RV Park (Zone 1) Keowee Camp Road, West Union, 29696 864.638.5716 www.keoweerv.com
#scmountainlakes
www.SCMountainLakes.com
The Clemson University Conference Center and Inn is the perfect place for experiencing Clemson and the surrounding area. Adjacent to the University campus, its garden-like setting and lakeside location make it ideal for your next visit. With Solé on the Green restaurant, Joe’s Place Bar, Paws @ the Café and the championship Walker Golf Course, there’s no better place for your next Clemson Experience.
HOSTING THE CLEMSON EXPERIENCE 230 Madren Center Drive • Clemson University • Clemson, SC 888-654-9020 • cuconferencecenter.com
Sole Grill and Sushi Bar
EAT When you come to upstate South Carolina, be sure to bring your appetite for Southern cooking. No matter what your preference, you will find a complete menu of Southern fare, from barbecue and freshwater trout to sausage gravy over biscuits and the ultimate Southern favorite ... GRITS! You’re sure to discover and savor one incredible dining experience after another, from some of the best BBQ to be found anywhere to Charleston’s world-famous shecrab soup, which several local eateries have managed to bring inland without missing a morsel of great taste. From little out-of-the-way places and timeless roadside diners to elegant dining rooms, no matter what your budget or your tastes, Oconee County cuisine will leave you hungry for more. Area restaurants offer visitors a range of cuisines, each with its own flavor and style, most locally owned and operated. Several restaurants feature a cozy atmosphere in which to enjoy an ever-changing seasonal menu, and others offer fine dining options that use items from area farms and artisan producers. For more listings of area restaurants go to: www.scmountainlakes.com 66 • Visitors Guide
Black’s Smokehouse 1528 Blue Ridge Blvd, Seneca 864.280-2577. | Cash or check only. Thurs. - Sat. 11 am - 7:30 p.m Bar-b-que Blue Marble Café & Bakery 12019A North Radio Station Road, Seneca 864.882.3434 | Cash or check only. www.bluemarblebaked.com Bakery, Cafe Brasstown Creek BBQ 70 Brasstown Rd., Westminster 864.647.2458 Directions: Hwy 76 at S37-46. 4-8 p m. Friday & Saturday, Cash Only Bar-b-que Brews on the Alley 109 Ram Cat Alley Seneca 864-973-8923 Seneca’s only craft beer and coffee bar experience. Coffee and Craft Beer are available for purchase and to go. The Burrito Shack 12020 N Radio Station Rd , Seneca 864.873.9477 Faacebook: The Burrito Shack Tex-Mex grill
#scmountainlakes
www.SCMountainLakes.com
Chattooga River Resort Lodge 14239 Hwy 76 (Long Creek Hwy), Long Creek www.chattoogaresort.com 864.873.7310 Bar and Grille Chin Chin 1026 By Pass 123, Seneca 864.886.1228 www.chinchinseneca.com Asian Cuisine. Limited delivery available. The Burrito Shack
Carolina Pizza Company 124 East Main Street, Suite 124D, Walhalla 864.916.0692 Pizza CC Fudge & More 314 East Main Street, Walhalla 864.638.3020 Facebook: CC Fudge & More Hot Dogs, Sandwiches, Fudge, Ice Cream
Circa 1930 112 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca 864.888.1933 Facebook: Circa 1930 Eclectic Dining and Coffee House Soups and sandwiches. Dakota Grill 2911 Highlands Hwy, Walhalla 864.718.0553 Directions: At the base of the mountain on Hwy 28. www.dakotagrillsc.com Steak and Seafood
A Taste Of Amish
-OPEN-
Tuesday - Saturday 6:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Choose from menu or buffet.
Breakfast Buffet Ends at 10:30 a.m. Lunch Buffet Starts at 11a.m. 305 Bypass 123 • Seneca, SC
864-280-9260
www.mydienners.com CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 67
Deinners 305 By Pass 123, Seneca 864.280.9260 Facebook: Dienner’s Kitchen Buffet Restaurant
Key Lime Pie from The Lighthouse
El Alazan 111 Rochester Highway, Seneca 864.985.0355 Facebook: Alazan Mexican Grill Mexican The Grill At Clemson Marina 150 Clemson Marina Dr, Seneca 864.653.6767 Friday - Sunday: 11am - 9pm www.clemsonmarina.us Hot Hog Diggity Dog 300-302 East Main St, Walhalla 864-364-0104 Humble Pie Pizza 14239 Long Creek Hwy., Long Creek 864.647.9098 www.chattoogawhitewatershop.com/humblepie.html Pizza
Keowee Towne Cafe 15740 North Highway 11, Salem 864.944.1000, ext. 1 for deli/cafe keoweetowne.net Pizza and Deli The Lighthouse 1290 Doug Hollow Rd., Seneca 864.888.4446 www.lighthousekeowee.com Upscale and Casual dining options Los Amigos 224 Hitec Rd, Seneca 864.885.0237 www.losamigosofseneca.com Mexcan
Chinese • Japanese • Thai Restaurant
• DINE IN • TAKE OUT • CATERING • DELIVERY
COME AND ENJOY A WONDERFUL SUSHI BAR
• Twelve beers on tap • Extensive craft beer selection • Gluten Free Menu Available
Order Online at chinchinseneca.com DELIVERY
to a 10 mile radius minimum $20 with $2 Delivery Charge
Business Hours:
NO Sun-Thurs: 11:00am-9:30pm MSG Fri & Sat: 11:00am-10:00pm 1026 ByPass 123, Ste F • Seneca, SC 29678
864.886.1228
S BEST
OF THE
2015
Reader’s Choice Awards
BEST BAR BEST HOT WINGS 122 Ram Cat Alley • Seneca www.thespot.us
SMOKE FREE & OPEN ON SUNDAY’S
Major Credit Cards Accepted. No Checks
68 • Visitors Guide
BEST The Journal
#scmountainlakes
www.SCMountainLakes.com
The Spot on the Alley 122 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca, SC 864.985.0102 www.thespot.us Sports Bar, American Grill The Spotted Pig BBQ 15491 S. Highway 11, Fair Play, SC 864.972.3065 www.spottedpig.com Bar-b-que Palmetto Sweets & Company, LLC
Martha’s Market Place Café 101 W Main St., Walhalla 864.638.0770 Cafe Palmetto Sweets & Company, LLC 115 East Main Street, Walhalla 864.638.7707 Facebook: Palmetto Sweets & Company Southern Cooking, Sandwiches Paesano’s Italian Restaurant 1727 Blue Ridge Blvd., Seneca 864.882.3368 www.paesanositalian.com Italian Puerto Nuevo Mexican & Seafood 201 Foothills Center Dr, West Union 864.638.0096 102 E Main St, Westminster 864.647.2147 Facebook: Puerto Nuevo Mexican Restaurant and Seafood
Taco Riendo 115 Bountyland Rd, Seneca 864.882.0790 Mexican 3 Amigos 124 E Main Street, Ste F, Walhalla 864-638-2016 Mexican Tiki Hut 156 Keowee Marina Dr., Seneca 864.882.0800 www.clubtikihut.com Lakeside Bar, American Grill Vangeli’s Italian Restaurant 119 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca 864-973-1492 11am-2pm, 5pm-9:30pm Mediterranean and Southern influenced cuisine
Seneca Family Restaurant 515 By-Pass 123, Seneca 864-886-9599 – American Sisters Restaurant 281 Stamp Creek Rd. (Hwy 130) Salem 864.944.8100 Facebook: Sisters Restaurant Salem SC Sandwiches, Burgers Sole Grill and Sushi Bar 700 ByPass 123, Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.9463 www.solesushi.com Tapas, Sushi, Grill CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Vangeli’s Italian Restaurant
Villa Tuscana 217 W Main St., Central .864.952.5027 villatoscanacentral.com Italian Ye Olde Sandwich Shoppe 124 North Townville St., Seneca 864.882.3006 www.yeoldesandwichshoppe.com Deli Visitors Guide • 69
City of
Seneca
upcoming events March 19, 2016
UPSTATE MEDICAL ASSOCIATES HALF MARATHON & 5K We give away $1,000 to the fastest male and fastest female in the half marathon! All half marathon runners get a finishers medal.
May 27, 2016
GLO Run Seneca's first run at night! Starts at 9:00 PM at the Shaver Recreation Complex.
Starting in April Jazz on the alley
Cruzin on main
Every Thursday April - October. Starts at 6:30 on Ram Cat Alley.
1st Saturday April - October. Downtown on Main Street.
Seneca fest
4th of july
May 27 & 28, 2016 Main attraction Dennis Edwards from The Temptations.
Don't miss the award-winning fireworks display at Gignilliat Field. Free for the whole family.
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Seneca SC Events
More info at www.seneca.sc.us
The New South Architecture & Exhibit “Speaking in the One Historic Voice”
A 1909 American Queen Anne style bungalow, carriage house and “two-seater outhouse”. Architect Charles Christian Hook Former residence of Dr. W. J. & Lilian Mason Lunney. The arts & crafts interior features art glass windows, original chandeliers, long-leaf pine woodwork, quarter-sawn oak mantel, English fireplace tiles, flat panel wainscot with burlap inserts, and an 1866 Chickering & Sons “cocked hat” parlor grand piano.
Open to the Public | Thursday through Sunday 1:00 - 5:00 PM Other hours by appointment | Admission by donation For a pictorial tour & events schedule visit www.LunneyHouseMuseum.org
211 W. South 1ST. Street, Seneca, SC 29678 info@LunneyHouseMuseum.org | 864.882.4811
Come discover Seneca’s premier cultural museum The Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum Honoring the Past • Elevating the Future
The museum bears the name of former Seneca resident, the late Mrs. Bertha Lee Strickland. Mrs. Strickland was the maid, caregiver, and confidante of Mrs. Lilian Lunney for 47 years until Mrs. Lunney’s death in 1969. In her will, Mrs. Lunney left to Mrs. Strickland the property and home where Mrs. Strickland lived on West South 2nd Street. The museum sits adjacent to the Lunney House Museum.
208 West South 2nd Street, Seneca For more information www.StricklandCulturalMuseum.org
Open Thursday - Saturday 11:00 AM- 5:00 PM Some holidays excluded. Admission is free.
CELEBRATE
Annual Events in Oconee County
■ MARCH Run For The Green, March 19 Downtown Seneca The 6th Annual Run For The Green Half-Marathon and 5k.Be sure to wear your green for the post-race St. Patty’s Party! Early registration guarantees a t-shirt. Visit www.seneca.sc.us for details closer to the event. America’s Boating Course Oconee Memorial Hospital, Seneca March 31, April 7, 14, 21, and 28 from 6:30PM-8:30 PM at Oconee Memorial Hospital in the Oconee Room. Designed to advance public boating knowledge and skills for safer boating in the Upstate. $300 for manual and supplies. mjstroven@bellsouth.net, 864-9850788 ■ APRIL Cruzin’ on Main Downtown Seneca Just like yester-year, cruzin’ Main Street on a Saturday Night starts the first Saturday of April for the season and continues till October. Join us the 1st Saturday of each month. Visit www. seneca.sc.us for details.
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Jazz on the Alley Ram Cat Alley, Seneca April 2nd marks the first Jazz on the Alley for the season. Enjoy music, dancing and food in Seneca, SC at Ram Cat Alley. The season continues into October. Music on Main Downtown Westminster A night of music on the first Friday of each month in conjunction with Westminster Depot Cruise-in. The event starts in April and runs through October. Pendleton Spring Jubilee Downtown Pendleton, SC Join us in Pendleton’s historic town square April 2-3, 2016 for the Pendleton Spring Jubilee. Over 300 artisans vie for the coveted 100 spaces. Local and regional entertainers fill the air with music. Call (864) 646-3782 or visit www. pendletondistrict.org. Issaqueena’s Last Ride St. Johns Lutheran Church, Walhalla Held April 23, 2106 is a challenging, mountain ride through the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and Foothills of South Carolina. Visitors Guide • 73
The two longer rides are highlighted by the climb to Wigington Overlook where one is rewarded with expansive views of Lake Jocassee and the surrounding Carolina Piedmont. All routes feature scenic rural roads with little traffic. Visit www.ilrsc.com for details. ■ MAY Mayfest Art of Living, May 13-14 Downtown Walhalla Celebrating the arrival of spring, join us for the Mayfest Art of Living. The weekend events include arts and crafts, a parade, antique car show and Shagging on Main.
Mayberry Comes to Westminster Downtown Westminster Mayberry comes to Westminster on May 6-7, 2016! Come experience tribute artists, live music playing thought out the two days, Mayberry parades, a Miss and Mrs. Mayberry Contest, a trivia contest, food vendors, Mayberry merchandise, a car and tractor show, arts & crafts and more! For more information visit www.mayberrywestminster.com or call 864-638-7426. Blue Ridge Fest, May 6, 2016 734 W. Main Street, Pickens, SC The Annual Blue Ridge Fest is popular throughout the region. Past entertainment has included Charlie Thomas’ Drifters, Johnny Mason and the Clovers, Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs and the Party Prophets Band. Gates open at 2 p.m. for cars. Come in a classic car and get a carload of four in for $25. For more information visit www.blueridge.coop/blueridgefest/ or call 800-240-3400 INT League, May 13-15 South Cove County Park, Seneca Host a Wakeboard, Kneeboard & Wake Surf 74 • Visitors Guide
Tournament at South Cove County Park. Bring your lounge chair and enjoy the day watching the competition from South Cove Beach. INT League also host amateur events and anyone can compete. For more information call 864423-8870 or go to www.intleague.com/South Carolina. Mountains to Main Street Half Triathlon, May 22 Imagine a swim in the ultra-pure waters of Lake Keowee in Seneca, SC, a bike along the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and a net downhill run along the GHS Swamp Rabbit Trail with a finish line overlooking the Reedy River and Reedy Falls in award-winning downtown Greenville, SC. setupevents.com Rally in the Valley, May 28 Held this year at an amazing new location about 10 miles from the prior location. The new venue, Lake Jemiki, offers a beautiful setting adjacent to a private lake tucked back into the Blue Ridge mountains. As in the past, we plan to provide great local barbecue and other tasty food, great live music and local craft beer for all riders. Seneca Fest Downtown Seneca and Norton-Thompson Park The City of Seneca will host the 9th Annual Seneca Fest in downtown Seneca starting with Jazz On The Alley May 28-30, 2016. Experience the music, food, games and fun! A portion of the proceeds will benefit Wounded Warriors. Past performers included The Charlie Daniels Band, John Anderson, Bellamy Brothers and The Jeff Vaughn Band. For more information visit www. seneca.sc.us or call 864-723-3910. Long Creek Music Festival 1010 Blaylock Place, Long Creek Join us for the Fourth Annual Long Creek Music Festival hosted at the beautiful Chattooga River Resort and Campground on Memorial Day Weekend May 28-30, 2016. Check the website closer to the event for the lineup. Past performers include Terratonic, Peartree Music Company, Mountain Hoodoo, The Fabulous Plowboys and more! For more information visit www. longcreekfest.com or call 864-873-7310
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The Best Place For Live Music!
Saturday, April 15 • 8:00 p.m. $15 McClean & Turner Saturday, April 30 • 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Westminster Rotary Club Beach Night May 6 & 7 Mayberry Days 101 West Main Street, Westminster
(864) 280-6067
www.westminstermusichall.com
■ JUNE
■ SEPTEMBER
Honoring Their Service salemsc.us
South Carolina 55th Annual Apple Festival Downtown Westminster 864.647.7223 Beginning the day after Labor Day and running through the following weekend, the South Carolina Apple Festival celebrates the beginning of the apple harvest in Oconee County. The annual festival has drawn thousands of visitors to Westminster, since its first appearance in 1961. For more information visit www.scapplefestival.com or call 864.647.7223
Fun In The Sun Festival West Union, SC This annual festival is popular throughout the region. The festival is held the 1st Saturday in June and is scheduled for June 4, 2016. Enjoy family events and live music in downtown West Union. The day will include food vendors, games and exhibits for children of all ages including a marshmellow-eating contest. Visit www.scwestunion.com for more information. ■ JULY Independence Eve in Walhalla Sunday, July 3rd from 7-10pm. Activities for kids, music, fireworks and fun for all! Food to purchase provided by area churches and civic clubs. Fireworks will begin shortly after 9pm. Walhalla soccer field Seneca’s 4th of July Celebration, July 4 Gignilliat Park, Seneca 7pm-9:30pm Fireworks at 9:30pm Visit www. seneca.sc.us for more details. July 4th Celebration in Salem 7pm – 9:30pm, Fireworks at 9:30PM. Visit salemsc.us for more details. Hillbilly Days, July 4, 2016 Mountain Rest, SC The 56th Annual Hillbillly Day 2015 will be held 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, at 120 Verner Mill Road in Mountain Rest, Oconee County, South Carolina. Observe the holiday during this annual family event featuring Blue Grass music, clogging contests, fiddle and banjo competition, BBQ, chicken food plates, greased pig chase, and greased pole climb. Free event. Please bring your own chairs for seating! For more information visit www.mountainrestcommunityclub.com or call 864-638-9070.
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S.C. Foothills Heritage Fair, Oct 3-8 Hwy. 123 Between Seneca and Westminster The S.C. Foothills Heritage Fair is held at 178 Hayfield Road near Westminster S.C., off Hwy 123 across from Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative. Midway rides by J&J Amusements, draft horse pull, Clemson storytellers, fishing tanks, wrestling, Mr. Twister the Clown, cattle dog trail, community stage and more. For more information visit www.carolinafoothillsheritagefair.org ■ OCTOBER Farm to Table Dinner and Tour, October 2 Chattooga Belle Farm, Long Creek Chattooga Belle Farm will host a Farm to Table Dinner and Tour October 3 from 5pm until 8pm at $85 per person. Enjoy beautiful scenery and fresh, local food at an Appalachian working farm. To purchase tickets, visit www.chattoogabellefarm.com or call (864) 647-9768. 454 Damascus Church Road, Long Creek, SC Marathon Series, Seneca Race Shaver Recreational Complex, Seneca Mainly Marathons puts on a race series like no other, from the unique course setup to the unparalleled spread of food and drinks to fuel you on your journey, all mixed with a sense of fun and family you just won’t find anywhere else. Enjoy the day running in Seneca, SC or all five days in five different states running a series of different courses each day.
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Boo on Main Downtown Westminster Dress your kids and family in their spookiest costumes and bring them out to Boo-On-Main on October 31st in Westminster, SC. This is a safe alternative to trick-or-treating. Local businesses, schools and civic organizations will be on Main giving out goodies to the kids. The Westminster Baptist Church provides hot dogs plates and bouncy houses for children to enjoy. Visit westminstersc.com for details and time.
Oktoberfest, October 14-16 Main Street and Sertoma Field, Walhalla, SC This weekend-long event is now in its 38th year. Walhalla celebrates its German heritage with festivities on Main Street and Sertoma Field, including food, carnival rides, arts and crafts, shopping and, of course, authentic German music and dancing. For more information visit www. walhallaoktoberfest.com or call (864) 638-2727. Taste of Home Cooking School, October 25 Gignilliat Community Center, Seneca Sponsored by The Journal, The Taste of Home Cooking School is America’s #1 leading cooking school program, providing entertaining and relatable cooking instruction for audiences nationwide. Culinary Specialists bring energy, excitement and their love of cooking LIVE to approximately 135,000 enthusiastic attendees at more than 200 events across the country each year. Tickets must be purchased in advance at www.upstatetoday.com or call 864-882-2375.
ROAD TITANS 300+ Cycling Challenge, October 7-9 Mountain Lakes Convention & Visitors Bureau welcomes to the ROAD TITANS 300+ Cycling Challenge. The is not a race, but a three-day premiere cycling event that will bring endurance cyclists from all across the country to participate in a three-county cycling challenge. Designed to defy the limits of endurance with a road course in one of National Geographic’s “Destinations of a Lifetime”, Oconee County, South Carolina. www.roadtitans300.com Halloween On The Green Downtown Seneca Halloween On The Green will be held October 31 in downtown Seneca. Enjoy free hotdogs, candy give-a-way, games and don’t forget to wear your Halloween costume for a change at best dressed! Visit www.seneca.sc.us for additional details closed to the event date. Dress Your Pet – Strut Your Mutt Norton Thompson Park, Seneca The 6th Annual Dress Your Pet will be held October 31st to benefit the Oconee Humane Society in Seneca, SC at Norton Thompson Park. Visit www.seneca.sc.us for additional details closer to event date.
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Visitors Guide • 77
For 364 Days A Year We Bring You Power & Security. The Other Day We Party.
And You’re Invited! Join us for the 19th annual Blue Ridge Fest on Friday, May 6, 2016. The featured performers will be Jay & the Americans, Jimmy Beaumont & The Skyliners, and Jim Quick & Coastline. Past performers include Chubby Checker, The Drifters, The Temptations, Jerry Butler, Lloyd Price, Bill Pinkney's Original Drifters, The Clovers, Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs, The Tams, Little Anthony and the Imperials, The Platters, Charlie Brown and the Coasters, The Impressions, Jim Quick and Coastline, Legends of Beach, The Rickey Godfrey Band, Johnny Tillotson, Shirley Alston Reeves, The Swingin’ Medallions and Chairmen of the Board. The evening's entertainment will also include a car show with more than 500 classic automobiles, great food and beverages, and special drawings and raffles. Blue Ridge Fest has given more than $2 million dollars to local charities over the past 18 years. Check our website at blueridgefest.com for more details!
Events take place at Blue Ridge Electric, 734 West Main St., Pickens, SC www.blueridgefest.com • 800/240-3400
HISTORY One and Two Days Historical Tours: 1. Oconee Heritage Center General Store Museum 2. Westminster Depot 3. Westminster Music Hall 4. Oconee Heritage Center 5. Patriots Hall Museum 6. The Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina 7. Lunney House Museum 8. Bertha Strickland Cultural Museum Check the museum websites for days open and times. For groups email charlotte@scmountainlakes.com to set up tours. Bethel Presbyterian Church (Map - POI 3) 580 Bethel Church Rd., Walhalla 864.638.0810 Founded in 1805 by General Andrew Pickens, Bethel Presbyterian is the oldest church in continuous use in Oconee County. Outside is a cemetery that dates to the founding of the church. Bertha Strickland Cultural Museum (Map - POI 15) 208 West South 2nd Street, Seneca Seneca’s premier cultural exhibit museum. The museum is unique in that it will rotate over 80% of its exhibit space 2-3 times each year. Exhibits will take a look into the history, culture, and contributions of the local African American community and their impact on Society. Open Tuesday-Saturday, from 11am-4pm (some holidays excluded). Admission is free. CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Blue Ridge Field (Map - POI 5) Holland Ave., Seneca 864.885.2700 Once the site of the segregated AfricanAmerican Blue Ridge High School football field, Blue Ridge Field today memorializes the rich history of African-American education in Oconee County from the 1800s to 1969. The football field is now the site of a heritage park that, upon completion, will include history kiosks, a walking track, community gardens, picnic shelters and a recreational field. Chattooga Town (Map - POI 7) The Chattooga River was named after the historic Cherokee town of Chattooga, which was situated in bottomlands along the river from the late 16th to the early 18th centuries. Chattooga Town is protected by the Forest Service as a significant historic site. Located on Hwy 28 northwest of Walhalla. Hagood Mill 138 Hagood Mill Road, Pickens, SC 864.898.5963 This functioning 19th-century water-powered gristmill welcomes visitors to picnic and hike on the 13-acre tract. Stone-ground cornmeal and grits are always available. The grounds are open daily during daylight hours. Tours and corngrinding demonstrations are held the third Saturday of each month. Admission is free. Historic Ballenger House (Map - POI 11) 212 East South Third St., Seneca 864.882.7162, www.ballengerhouse.org A community landmark, the Ballenger House (circa 1925) is a beautiful red brick home built in the four-square style and located in the heart of Historic Downtown Seneca. Used as the primary Visitors Guide • 79
residence of the Ballenger family until 1980, the home was deeded to the Seneca Woman’s Club. The club originated in 1896 and still meets today, making it the oldest club in the county. Historic Westminster Depot (Map - POI 12) Main Street, Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.5316 Recently restored, this train depot is on the National Register of Historic Places. Historic Whetstone Place ca. 1835 198 Earls Ford Road, Mountain Rest 864.710.3779 whetstoneplace@gmail.com Just minutes from the wild and scenic Chattooga River, Whetstone Place is part of multigeneration family farm now serving as an event venue and offering overnight accommodations. Lunney House Museum (Map - POI 14) 211 West South First St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.4811 http://www.lunneyhousemuseum.org/ Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this California-style bungalow was built in 1909 by Dr. and Mrs. W.J. Lunney. Its distinctive arts and crafts architecture extends to include a two-story carriage house and a “twoseater” outhouse. The Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina (Map – POI 26) 70 Short St., Walhalla, SC 29691 www.cherokeemuseumsc.org Saturday 10 am - 2 pm or by appointment This new museum is a place where the Cherokee part of Oconee’s history is offered in detail. A wide variety of artifacts has been assembled, and the story of the Cherokee is told as it could only be told, in a place the Cherokee called home. Oconee Heritage Center (Map - POI 17) 123 Brown’s Square Dr., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.638.2224 www.oconeeheritagecenter.org The Oconee Heritage Center is housed in the historic Tobacco Warehouse of Walhalla. The museum features a Depression-era tenant farmer’s house, a virtual replica of Stumphouse Tunnel, and a 250-year-old dugout canoe. The Center’s collections are arranged into different historical eras.
80 • Visitors Guide
OHC General Store Museum 126 E. Main St., Westminster, SC 29693 864-638-2224 (Map - POI 27) The Oconee Heritage Center General Store Museum is a replica of a general store, complete with original items from England’s General Merchandise of Westminster, which operated for nearly 100 years on Main Street. Open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m and by special appointment. Old Pickens Presbyterian Church (Map - POI 18) SC Route 183, Salem, SC 29671 864.944.1303, www.oldpickens.org Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this church/meeting house is the only building still standing on the site where the town of Pickens Courthouse was established in 1828. The adjacent cemetery has over 200 graves dating back to 1790. Oconee Station State Historic Site (Map - Parks 12) 500 Oconee Station Rd., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.638.0079 Built around 1792 during tensions between white settlers and Creek Indians, the Oconee Station itself was once one in a string of small frontier posts garrisoned by state militia. It was the last of its kind when it was decommissioned in 1799. Its impressive 20-inch stone walls are still standing today. The site features picnicking, fishing, and trail access to Station Cove Falls in the Sumter National Forest. Oscar Wigington Scenic Overlook (Map - POI 19) Named for a former mayor of Salem and located approximately 25 miles north of Walhalla, the Oscar Wigington Scenic Overlook offers a spectacular view of northeastern Oconee and northwestern Pickens counties. Located on Hwy 413 north of Walhalla. Patriots Hall Museum (Map - POI 28) 13 Short St., Walhalla, SC 29691 http://oconeeveteransmuseum.org/ Patriots Hall offers an opportunity for Oconee citizens, their families and visitors, to see how veterans have contributed and often sacrificed for our country, the world and our freedom. There is no charge to visit the museum. The museum is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
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Tamassee DAR School Tamassee, SC 29686 864.944.1390 The school, founded in 1919 by the South Carolina Daughters of the American Revolution, was organized to provide a place to learn and a chance to develop the ideals of patriotism, citizenship and spiritual growth for children living in the isolation of northwestern South Carolina. It was recently added to the
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Stumphouse Tunnel at Issaqueena Falls (Map - Parks 14) Walhalla, SC 29691, 864.638.4343 A new railroad through the Appalachians was proposed to connect Charleston first with Knoxville and later Cincinnati. Rather than go over or around the mountains in this area, it was decided that a tunnel would be dug. The 1,600-foot-long Stumphouse Tunnel was started in 1852, but the Civil War and a lack of funds brought construction to a halt. Not far from this “tunnel to nowhere” is Issaqueena Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state.
World of Energy (Map - POI 25) 7812 Rochester Highway, Seneca 800.777.1004 www.duke-energy.com/visitor-centers/ worldof-energy.asp Located on Lake Keowee beside the Oconee Nuclear Station, Duke Energy’s World of Energy is an education center with selfguided exhibits that teach visitors of all ages how electricity is made. Guests also enjoy interactive games, a short nature trail, a butterfly garden and a picnic area with a beautiful view of Lake Keowee. Admission to the facility is free and is open Monday thru Saturday. Special events are held throughout the year so check our website often for details!
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St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, located on Main Street in Walhalla, was originally established in 1853 by German Lutherans. Construction of the building began in 1859 and completed in 1861, just at the beginning of the Civil War. www.stjohnswalhalla.org
Walhalla State Fish Hatchery 198 Fish Hatchery Road, Mountain Rest 864.638.2866 Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this is the only trout hatchery in South Carolina.
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Russell Farmstead (Map - POI 8) The Russell farmstead was a busy Appalachian farm, stagecoach stop, and Inn in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The farm is located on the former stagecoach route between Walhalla and Highlands. From Walhalla follow Hwy 28 north to the left fork. The farmstead is on the left before the bridge.
National Register of Historic Places Open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointment preferred.
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Retreat Rosenwald School (Map - POI 30) 150 Pleasant Hill Circle Westminster, SC 29793 Contact: Helen Rosemond-Saunders, 864.903.0547 The Retreat Rosenwald School, located just outside the city of Westminster, is a two-room schoolhouse that served rural African-American children from 1924 until 1950. It was partially funded by the national Rosenwald School Building program. It was one of 10 Rosenwald schools in Oconee County. In September 2011, the school was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
T h i r d S t. S e n e c
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The Historic Ballenger House, circa 1925, is a designated site on the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor located in historic downtown Seneca, South Carolina. Tours Art Exhibits Meetings for Clubs and Organizations Fundraising Events Weddings Business Meetings
To arrange for a tour, please call Debbie at 864-324-8417 or Ruth at 864-882-7162 Visitors Guide • 81
Westminster
South Carolina Block Fair Oak Elementary 1964 Oakway Road, Westminster
Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail
Railroad Crossing Westminster Chamber 135 East Main Street Westminster
Flower Basket Residence 210 Adams Street Westminster
Nine Patch & Double Irish Chain Residence (Block on Adams Street) 9221 Long Creek Hwy Westminster
Texas Star Residence 202 Augusta Street Westminster
Caesar’s Crown Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative 2328 Sandifer Blvd Westminster
Double Wedding Rings Heritage Center Annex 126 East Main Street Westminster
Crazy Tie Quilt Residence 101 Augusta Street Westminster
Peace Ya’ll Residence (Block on Cornelia Ave) 200 Adams Street Westminster
Cactus Blossom Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative 2328 Sandifer Blvd Westminster
Carolina Mystery Pattern Friendship Garden Dads & Lads Store Westminster City Hall 224 E. Main Street 100 E. Windsor Street Westminster Westminster
Dutch Doll School House Rosenwald School Residence 506 Theo Martiin Rd 150 Pleasant Hill Circle Westminster Westminster
Josephine’s Knot Residence 200 Augusta Street Westminster
Autumn Star Residence 301 W. Abbey Street Westminster
Card Trick Westminster Library 112 W. North Avenue Westminster
Flower Basket Butterfly Blue Bird of Happiness Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative Residence Hopewell United 2328 Sandifer Blvd 6515 Toccoa Hwy. Methodist Church Westminster Westminster Westminster
Orchard of Learning Quilted Tulips Momo’s Tuffet Orchard Park Elementary Residence Residence 600 Toccoa Hwy. 112 Nardellas Circle 412 Welcome Church Rd. Westminster Westminster Westminster
Thai Memories of Saffron & Silk Moon’s Medical 132 Main St. Westminster
Lone Star Sandifer Funeral Home 512 East Main St., Westminster
For a complete list of quilts blocks visit upstateheritagequilttrail.org
UPSTATE HERITAGE QUILT TRAIL Volunteers from the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail placed the organization’s 100th quilt block on the exterior wall of Westminster’s City Hall on Windsor Street in 2012. The design known as “Friendship Garden” has a rich history in the early 20th century quilt revival and its quilter, Essie Jane Spencer Smith, is a native of Oconee County with family roots in Westminster, S.C., since the early 1830s.
For a complete list of quilt blocks, locations, and interactive map, visit us online at:
Friendship Garden is a variation of the Dresden Plate quilt design, in which quiltmakers cut and pieced together rays from various printed fabrics and appliquéd rings and a center to the background fabric. Smith was born in 1889 to parents Lula Jane Adams and James Madison Spencer, and grew up in the Old Liberty Community, now a part of Old Madison near Westminster. She was an avid quilter throughout her lifetime and oftentimes used scraps of cloth or dress material from her children’s clothing. Friendship Garden was quilted by Smith in 1945 and presented to her youngest son and World War II veteran, Spencer, and his new bride, Lelline Crout. Smith died in 1958 and is buried at Old Liberty Baptist Church’s cemetery. For information about the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail, visit www.uhqt.org.
UPSTATE HERITAGE QUILT TRAIL
www.uhqt.org
The Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail is a self guided tour that celebrates the history of quilting, the craft and their creators. Explore each quilt panel as the trail takes you through
Oconee, Anderson and Pickens Counties.
FOR INFORMATION ON QUIDED TOURS OR OTHER GENERAL INQUIRIES, CONTACT US AT: PO Box 333 Walhalla, SC 29691 (864) 723-6603 or Email: info@uhqt.org CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
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ARTS & CULTURE Arts Off the Alley 123 N. Townville St., Seneca, South Carolina 29678 (864) 888-2880 Arts Off the Alley is a unique co-operative for local artists to sell their art and handcrafts. The artists also teach a number of classes for adult and children. They added a new room for up-cycled and repurposed furniture and home decor by their artists. Find them on Facebook. Think of them when you need a gift or a fun shopping experience.
Arts Off the Alley studio
Bell Gallery (Map - POI 2) City of Seneca 221 E. North 1st St., Seneca, SC 29679 864.885.2700 www.seneca.sc.us The Bell Gallery “Once Upon A Time” is located in Seneca’s City Hall and features 84 • Visitors Guide
historical photography, stained glass windows, city memorabilia and bronze sculptures depicting eras of childhood, offering a unique glimpse into Seneca’s past. The Gallery is featured on the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor Arts Trail and admission is free. Blue Ridge Arts Center (Map - POI 4) 111 E. South 2nd St., Seneca, SC 29678 www.blueridgeartscenter.com Housed in a former Episcopal Church, the Blue Ridge Arts Center is focused on bringing art into Downtown Seneca through local artists creating steel cat designs, “All Aboard” train themed benches and a mural entitled “Welcome to Seneca” to be displayed throughout the city. They work with local artists and students to create the one of a kind art pieces that are unique to our area. The Arts Center of Clemson 212 Butler Street Clemson, SC 29631 P:864.633.5051 www.explorearts.org The Arts Center of Clemson is a not for profit community arts center located in Clemson, South Carolina. The Center was established for the purpose of bringing the arts to all members of the community through educational art programming, an Artists Guild for emerging artists, as well as, exhibits and sale opportunities featuring local, regional, national and International artists, children’s art programs and community art development.
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■ PERFORMING ARTS The Silver Dollar Music Hall Highway 76, Long Creek silverdollarmusichall.com/ Bluegrass music every Friday night at 7 p.m. on Highway 76 in Long Creek next to The Long Creek General Store.
Kudzu Designs with Nancy Basket
Kudzu Kabin Designs (Map - POI 13) 1105 E. Main St., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.718.8864 Housed in a 100-year-old renovated barn, the Kudzu Kabin features a gallery of kudzuderived art and gifts and is home to the only known kudzu paper factory. The Farmhouse Gallery (Map - POI 10) 124 F E. Main St., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.718.7171 Visitors are welcome and appointments are appreciated. Artist Vivian Edwards’ working studio has become an art stop for the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor. Fran Hanson Discovery Center (Map - POI 32 101 Garden Trail, Clemson, SC 29634 864.656.3405 The Discovery Center, located in the SC Botanical Garden on the campus of Clemson University, offers regional brochures and garden information. Featured exhibits by South Carolina artists rotate quarterly with a permanent collection by SC native Elizabeth B. Fuller. The Garden Discovery Room offers touch tables, microscopes and a reference library for nature and gardening enthusiasts. Open Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. Closed Clemson University holidays. Full Moon Artists www.fullmoonartists.com Visit the End Of the Road Studios to experience a one of a kind art studio and gallery. Enjoy their spring or fall open house where there is no end to the creativity.
Oconee Community Theatre (Map - POI 18) 8001 Utica St., Seneca, SC 29679 864.882.1910 Promoting the arts in our community for more than 40 years! Visit www.oconeetheatre.org for ticket information. Rumors April 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 2016 Walhalla Civic Auditorium (Map - POI 26) 101 E. North Broad St., Walhalla, SC 864-638-5277 Now hosting Broadway shows and popular performers. Visit www.walhallacivic.com for ticket pricing and group information. SteelDrivers (Bluegrass) Saturday, March 12 @ 8pm Fantastic Shakers (Beach music) Saturday, April 2 @ 8pm Ralph Stanley Saturday, April 16 @ 8pm A Southern Exposure (play-comedy/drama) April 22, 23, 24, 29, 30 & May 1 Evenings 8pm, Sundays 2:30pm Seldom Scene (Bluegrass) Saturday, May 7 @ 8pm Peter Rowan (bluegrass) Saturday, May 21 @ 8pm Duck Hunter Shoots Angel (play-comedy) June 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 & 26 Evenings 8pm, Sundays 2:30pm Westminster Music Hall 101 West Main Street, Westminster www.westminstermusichall.com Visit www.westminstermusichall.com for details of shows, times and cost. Enjoy “Timeless Tuesday” with the Shawn James Band featuring guest artists every 3rd Tuesday of the month. Watch for “Open Mic Nite” also on Tuesdays. 864-647-2147. McClean & Turner Saturday, April 15 @ 8pm
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AGRICULTURAL TOURISM LONG CREEK APPLE AND PEACH ROAD SIDE MARKETS Ables Orchard Hwy. 76 near Long Creek 864.647.2201 Apples, Peaches. Open: July 15 through early November Blue Haven Orchards PO Box 220, Long Creek 864-647-8070/2855 applejack31206@yahoo.com Always a great way to say delicious! Open March to mid December. Can ship apples across the US. Call for seasonal hours. Bryson’s U-Pick Apple Orchard 1011 Chattooga Ridge Rd., Mountain Rest 864.647.9427 http://www.brysonsappleorchard.com Apples & Peaches U-Pick or Picked. Pressed Cider, Jams & Jellies, honey form thier bees, sorgum syrup and vegetables in season.Open August 1- November 15, 9 – 6 Chattooga Belle Farm (Map - POI 6) 454 Damascus Church Rd., Long Creek 864.647.9768 www.chattoogabellefarm.com Chattooga Belle Farm is a 138-acre working farm set among a spectacular canvas of rolling hills and mountain views. Fruit, jams, wines, and specialty items are all available at this operating orchard and event facility. The Farm Store is open daily 86 • Visitors Guide
from 9-5 and the recently added Belle’s Diner serves lunch from 11am-2pm, Tuesday thru Sunday. Gnat Hill Orchard and Farm Wall Spring Rd. just off Hwy. 76, Long Creek 864.723-2410 Apples, Blueberries, Peaches, Pecans and vegetables Open: June through mid-November Hollifield’s Apple Orchard 161 Hollifield Lane, Long Creek 864-638-3695 We offer Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Granny Smith, and Mutsu apples. We have FRESH apple cider, peaches and homemade apple butter, chow chow, relish, and honey!! Seasonal FARMERS MARKETS Foothills Heritage Market Running May until November on Saturdays from 8am-12pm. Hwy 123 between Seneca and Westminster. Walhalla Farmers Market The market will be open June until September on Mondays from 7am-10am, and Thursday’s from 4pm-7pm. Main street Walhalla Westminster Farmers Market Running June until October on Tuesdays evenings from 4pm-7pm located at 135 East Main Street.
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Seneca Farmers Market June to November on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 6am-12pm at North Thompson Park. Salem Farmers Market May-September Farmers Markets Community Garden salemsc.us PRODUCE & FARM STANDS Berry Thyme Farm Blueberries Berry Farm Rd., Westminster 864.647.6383 Open: July thru August, 7 days/week – honor system. Pay cash or check. Billy’s Goat Hill 130 Timber Trail, Westminster 864.710.3703, billsgoathihll@att.net A sustainable family farm featuring goat meat, honey, preserves, culinary herbs, beeswax candles, soaps, lip balm, medicinal tea, marinades, sauces and gift baskets. Open Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Crescent Moon Farm 864.985.3357 www.crescentmoonfarms.com Fresh goat milk and cheese. Call for an appointment at the farm to pick up products or visit Hochstetler’s Store in Seneca for fresh products. Happy Berry Farm 510 Gap Hill Rd., Six Mile 864.868.2946, 864.350.9345 ContactUs@TheHappyBerry.com Happy Berry Farm is located on the eastern shore of Lake Keowee in Pickens County. It is a pick-your-own small fruit farm with blackberries, blueberries, figs and elderberries available in-season. Most years, the season is from June 1 to early September. Prepicked berries are also available.
The Merry Christmas Tree Farm 244 Lay Bridge Rd., Central 864.639.6492 Features “you cut” Leyland Cypress, Eastern White Pine, Eastern Red Cedar, Clemson Greenspire, Carolina Blue Sapphire and freshly cut Fraser Fir from NC mountains. Open Thanksgiving thru Dec. 23, 9 am to dusk. Mr. T’s Strawberries 131 Scenic Height Rd., West Union 864.638-8093 U-pick and pre-picked strawberries. Redmond Boy’s Produce & Plants 80 N. Cherry St., Seneca 864.882.0140 Features fresh farm produce & plants and carries Martin Dairy Raw Milk. Open through December; closed Jan/Feb; reopen March. Ronald Martin Dairy 460 Dairy Farm Rd., Westminster 864.972.9829 A Family farm, milking 110-140 Holstein cows; DHEC Certified Grade A all natural raw milk in gallons and half gallons, selfserve available at the farm and at Redmond Boy’s Produce. Sorrells Christmas Tree Farm 156 Radisson Rd., Seneca 864.882.5054 Features “you choose” and “we cut” Murray cyress, White Pine, Carolina Blue Sapphire, Cedar and Leland Cypress as well as fresh cut Fraser Fir from the NC mountains. Open the weekend before Thanksgiving through December 23, Mon. - Sun. 10am 7pm.
Lucky Acres Farm (Map - POI 14) 1024 Milford Rd., Townville 864.287.2339 www.luckyacresfarm.com Seasonal. Lucky Acres Farm is a small family farm raising alpacas and other small animals. The farm is located just three miles from I-85 at Exit 11.
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©2014 Whetstone Photo, courtesy of Wildwater
PLAY Oconee offers the perfect setting for outdoor recreation and sporting enthusiasts! Whether you are a golfer, a hiker, biker, boater or whitewater rafter you will want to take advantage of the lakes, rivers and mountains of Oconee County. If you happen to be staying in the county park system or one of the state parks (see Park Lodging on page 16), many sport and recreational activities will be at your fingertips. Nearby Clemson University further enhances the opportunities for adventure in the Golden Corner. New to the area is the growing sport of disc golf. Played much like traditional golf, players use a flying disc or Frisbee. It is easy to learn and fun to play. Several courses exist in the area and the South Carolina Disc Golf Organization lists several on their website, www.scdgo.net. The rugged terrain of the Blue Ridge Mountains offers the perfect setting for many outdoor activities. Hiking, camping, bird-watching and mountain biking are just a few of the activities enjoyed by residents and visitors to the area. Rivers support rafting, tubing, kayaking and fishing, and there are always leisurely walks available for nature lovers. CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
■ KAYAKING Oconee County, South Carolina is a kayaker’s dream come true. Whether you are a whitewater or flat water kayaker, Class 2 or Class 5 enthusiast, there is plenty here for you! The Chattooga River offers everything from flat water to Class 5 and runs year-round. Keep in mind: the Chattooga is a “Wild & Scenic” River, which means it is free flowing and NOT dam controlled. Water levels are dependent on the amount of rain the area receives. So plan your kayaking trip accordingly. The most popular sections of the Chattooga are: Section III and Section IV. Section III is about 13 miles of mostly Class 2 and 3 rapids. Section IV is about 7 miles of mostly Class 3 and 4 rapids, with a bit of Class 5 depending on the water level. As for flat water kayaking, there are calm sections along the West Fork of the Chattooga River in Section II. And Oconee County offers some of the most beautiful lakes found anywhere! Lake Jocassee is considered the “crown jewel”, with deep clear water and a back drop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Miles of undeveloped shoreline surround Lake Jocassee; and from the lake you can paddle up to and even under some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Kayak rentals, clinics and guided trips are available on the Chattooga River and Lake Jocassee. Please see pages 32-33 for details. Visitors Guide • 89
holidays or just bring your kids by the arcade; stopping by will brighten up any day. Their facility offers a mini golf course, gocarts, and a newly built arcade. The arcade includes over a dozen different games and laser tag. The laser tag arena holds up to 20 players at a time and over 3,000 square feet of space. Please call for party information.
■ RODEO The Golden Corner is host to a number of rodeo events. For additional information, visit www.iprarodeo.com or contact the Westminster Chamber at 864.647.5316. ■ SAILING The waters of lakes Keowee, Jocassee and Hartwell lend themselves to great sailing competitions at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Two clubs in the Upstate offer resources for sailors: Keowee Sailing Club 864.288.0999 www.keoweesailingclub.com Western Carolina Sailing Club 864.226.6561 www.wcsc-sailing.org ■ SHAVER RECREATION COMPLEX W. South 4th St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.885.2709 The T.W. “Shorty” Shaver complex encompasses 33 acres, is home to the Seneca Recreation Department, and is a hub for area sports activities. With seven recreation fields, two gyms, walking trails, a greenway trail, climbing wall and the Seneca Disc Golf Course, there is no shortage of options. ■ SWEET RETREAT FUN CENTER 510 E. Halfway Branch Rd. Walhalla, SC 864.885.0887 Fun for all ages young and old. Whether you need to stock up on chocolates for the 90 • Visitors Guide
■ CLEMSON UNIVERSITY (Map – POI 8) Enjoy the thrill of major university sports, cultural events and the lifelong learning courses at nearby Clemson University. The 1,400-acre campus lies on both sides of Lake Hartwell and is only 20 minutes from Lake Keowee. ■ CLEMSON UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS Watch the Clemson Tigers’ top-rated football, basketball and baseball teams participate in NCAA and ACC sports. Whether you enjoy football on fall afternoons at Clemson Memorial Stadium — better known as Death Valley — or basketball at Littlejohn Stadium, the Clemson Tigers always offer sports excitement. Call 1-800-CLEMSON for schedules and tickets. ■ T. ED GARRISON ARENA 1101 W. Queen St., Pendleton, SC 29670 864.646.2717 The Garrison Arena is host to a number of popular rodeo and livestock shows and is one of the premier livestock showplace facilities in the South. ■ GOLF The Trails at Chickasaw Point (Map - Golf 2) 503 S. Hogan Dr., Westminster, SC 864.972.9623 This scenic course is home to an abundance of wildlife, including turkeys, deer and fox. The Trails is a lovely 18-hole, par-72 course with four sets of tees providing enjoyable play for all skill levels. Each hole is separated from the other, giving players the sense of being alone on the course as they enjoy the ever-changing beauty of The Trails.
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The Trails at Chickasaw Point
Cross Creek Plantation (Map - Golf 3) 130 Club Dr., Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.8337 This course was built on rolling hills and is heavily wooded. There are water hazards that come into play at least ten times. The fairways are well bunkered, and the small greens are undulating. The Mountain Lakes NGA Classic will be held 4/22 - 4/28 at Cross Creek Plantation. A Pro/ Am tournament will be held on Tue., 4/23. For information on the tournament and the Pro/ Am event, please contact Mark Ernst at Cross Creek at 864-882-8337 or visit www.NGSTour. com.
The Walker Golf Course (Map - Golf 8) Clemson University 864.656.0236 The course is open year-round for public play. Golf holes wind through rolling hills and hardwood forests and some holes border Lake Hartwell. Individual memberships are available.
Foxwood Hills Golf Course (Map - Golf 5) 300 Brighton Dr., Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.9503 This is a tough course because the fairways are extremely narrow. There is an additional set of men’s tees that can be used when playing an 18-hole round.
Keowee Key Golf & Country Club
Oconee Country Club (Map - Golf 7) 781 Richland Rd., Seneca, SC 29672 864.882.8037 This is a well-maintained course. The signature hole is #15, a 470-yard par 5, allowing the longer hitters to reach the green in two if they are willing to hit an approach shot over a lake that is positioned 100 yards in front of the green. CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Falcon’s Lair Golf Course (Map - Golf 4) 1308 Falcons Dr., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.638.0000 This scenic countryside course offers beautiful views of the mountains. It features several hilly fairways, and water hazards come into play on several holes. (Map - Golf 6)
1 Country Club Dr., Salem, SC 29676 864.944.2222 This course, located in the foothills, is part of a private residential community. ■ DISC GOLF Oconee County is a Disc Golf Mecca. It features four 18 holes courses and one 9 hole course…and there’s two more planned. There are more Disc Golf holes in Oconee County then any-other county in South Carolina. For more information on Disc Golf in Oconee County, visit www.UpstateDGC.com or search Upstate Disc Golf on Facebook. Visitors Guide • 91
Disc Golf at Chattooga Belle Farms
Seneca An 18 hole course at the Shaver Recreation Center features tight fairways and a nice mix of elevation changes throughout the course. Several holes have multiple pin placements. The course is open year round and is free to play. Walhalla A short, technical course that wraps around a large hill make Sertoma Field a great course for the causal player. A creek rolls through the course adding the sound of several small waterfalls to add to the beauty of this course. There is a weekly league that is open to anyone. They play at 11am during the spring and summer and at 1pm during the fall and winter months. Clemson Beach University Beach course was designed by Innova Disc Golf, the largest manufacture of golf discs in the sport. The course is located just across lake Hartwell from Clemson University in Oconee County. The course is mostly open with several long holes. It is open year round but you might want avoid the course during Clemson Home Football games in the fall as the university uses the area for parking and tailgating. 92 â&#x20AC;˘ Visitors Guide
Westminster The course at Chau Ram County Park in Westminster has been in the works for several years. While there is no set date on the opening of the course, it will feature lots of elevation change, several woods carved out of the woods and some amazing views. Long Creek Chattooga Belle Farm Disc Golf Course offers some of the best views of the Blue Ridge Mountains anywhere in the Southeast US. The course is along course and has a lot of elevation change along with several holes that play near Horseshow Lake. The course is $3 per round. Chattooga Belle Farm has a restaurant that is open May through October and has a farm store that has a limited selection of golf discs available for purchase. â&#x2013; FOOT GOLF Oconee Country Club 781 Richland Rd, Seneca, SC 29672 864.882.8037 Oconee FootGolf is here! Footgolf is a sport where players kick a soccer ball into a larger cup than a standard hole for golf. As in golf, the goal is to have as few shots as possible.
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RELOCATE ■ REAL ESTATE One of the best resources for any relocation is to consult with a local realtor, who will be able to guide you to housing that meets your specific needs as well as inform you about local utilities, builders, post office services and the like. Above & Beyond 990 Mt. Olivet RD., Six Mile, SC 864.481.9600 | abrealestatesc.com Carolina Home Real Estate 102 N. Fairplay Street, Seneca 864.882.6670 | carolinahomesc.com Century 21 Hometown Realtors 100 Century Plaza, Ste. 8H, Seneca 864.482.7653 | century21hometownrealtors.com Cope and Company Real Estate 106 Waldrpo Street, Seneca 864.903.5671 | copeandcompany.com Cope Property Management 106 Waldrpo Street, Seneca 864.888.7104 | www.copepm.com 1st Choice Realty - Keowee Key Realty 1209 Stamp Creek Rd., Salem 864.944.2400 Jocasee Real Estate 306 A Bypass 123, Clemson 864.723.1716 | jocasseerealestate.com Keller-Williams 864.903.1234 | WeSellKeowee.com 864-710-5434 | KeoweeAreaHomes.com Re/Max Foothills at Lake Keowee 305 McCall Brothers Dr., Suite A, Seneca 864.944.5559 or 864.882.4200 Real Estate Inc. 1510 Blue Ridge Blvd., Suite 205, Seneca 864.882.8144 RH Properties 200 Hunter Avenue, Walhalla 864.784.0170 Tri-County Property 450-B Bypass 123, Seneca 864.873.9522 | Tri-CountyProperties.com CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
■ CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE Any of our area Chambers of Commerce would be happy to assist you with all you relocation needs. Greater Walhalla Area 105 West South Broad St., Walhalla 864.638.2727 | info@walhallachamber.com walhallachamber.com Westminster 135 East Main Street, Westminster 864.647.5316 | wcoc@nuvox.net www.westminstersc.com
Relocation Guide Now that you’ve visited the Mountain Lakes Region of South Carolina, chances are you’ve decided to stay—like many others have done. The Upstate has a national reputation as one of the best places to relocate. It’s a quality of life that, when combined with the local education, entertainment and cultural options, offers an unparalleled lifestyle. The Greater Oconee County Chamber of Commerce’s Relocation Guide and Business Directory provides information regarding housing and neighborhoods, area schools, medical services, healthy living opportunities, senior living, Oconee County profile, area industries and a business directory. Contact The Greater Oconee County Chamber to request your copy of the Relocation Guide. 2014-2015 • 1
Greater Oconee County Chamber of Commerce 135 Eagles Nest Dr. Suite C, Seneca 864.882.2097 info@oconeechambersc.com http://oconeechambersc.com/ Visitors Guide • 93
People Quick Facts Oconee County
Emergency Number for Oconee County and Vicinity
9-1-1
Population 2014 estimate: 76,029
Fire, Police, Ambulance
Persons under 18 years old, 2013: 20.6% Persons 65 years and over, 2013: 21% Female persons, 2013: 50.6% Living in the same house 1 year and over 2009-2013: 84% Mean travel time to work (minutes), 2009-2013: 24.3 Housing units, 2013: 38,677 Home ownership rate, 2009-2013: 72% Housing units in multi-unit structures, 2009-2013: 9% Median valve of owner-occupied housing units, 2009-2013: $136,300 Households, 2009-2013: 30,106 Persons per household, 2009-2013: 2.45 InvestOconeeSC.com
Oconee Memorial Hospital 298 Memorial Drive, Seneca, SC 29672 864.882.3351 Carolinas Poison Control Center 800.222.1222 Forest Fire Reporting 800.777.3473 • 800.735.8583 (TTY) Sheriff Anderson County 864.260.4400 Oconee County 864.638.4111 Pickens County 864.868.2603 Fire 864.898.5500 - Central, Norris, Six Mile Police 864.656.2222 - Clemson, Other Areas 864.226.6013 - Pendleton 864.944.6060 - Salem 864.885.2718 - Seneca City Only 864.638.4222 - Seneca, Other Areas 864.638.4345 - Walhalla 864.638.4222 - West Union Police 864.639.4020 - Central 864.624.2000 - City of Clemson 864.656.2222 - Clemson University 864.944.2819 - Salem 864.885.2718 - Seneca City Only 864.638.5831 - Walhalla 864.647.3222 - Westminster South Carolina Highway Patrol Emergencies Only 864.260.2200 800.768.1503 Copyright © Kingfisher Maps, Inc. 2009 www.kingfishermaps.com
94 • Visitors Guide
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The Mountain Lakes Visitor’s Guide is a biannual publication published by The Journal and the Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau in Oconee County, South Carolina. Its purpose is to provide information to visitors and tourists about Oconee and the surrounding area. It is available free of charge at numerous locations in Oconee, Pickens and Anderson counties and at South Carolina Welcome Centers. Any reproduction or duplication of this publication or any part thereof must be done with the publisher’s written permission. The publisher is not responsible for the claims made by the advertisers. Information current at the time of printing. Visit us at www.SCMountainLakes.com. ■ VIRTUAL EDITION The Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau Visitors Guide online edition provides you the latest in publication technology. Though you’ll still want the print version to hold and read at your leisure, this new interactive feature allows you to share with friends online, interact with advertisers, authors, stories, and more…
■ RESOURCES Special thanks to ... Cities of Seneca, Walhalla, Westminster Oconee County Parks, Recreation and Tourism Oconee Heritage Center Pendleton District Commission South Carolina Department of Natural Resources South Carolina National Heritage Corridor South Carolina State Parks South Carolina State Trails Progam U.S. Army Corps of Engineers U.S. Forest Service Greater Oconee County Chamber of Commerce Walhalla Chamber of Commerce Westminster Chamber of Commerce Adam Wright, photographer Sarah Marko, photographer
Just visit www.SCMountainLakes.com and follow the links.
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