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2 â&#x20AC;¢ Visitors Guide

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DISCOVER OCONEE

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 â&#x20AC;&#x153;together timeâ&#x20AC;? are eagerly sought by tourists, and Oconee County offers the perfect setting for an affordable vacation for active families, couples and retirees.

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Table Of Contents 7

Visit Oconee SC

Photographer’s View

10 3-Day Oconee Tour 13 Waterfalls 19 The Sumter National Forest 21 Parks 24 Hiking

Visit Oconee SC Ken Sloan President/CEO 105 W.S. Broad St. Walhalla, South Carolina 29691 877.685.2537 Info@visitoconeesc.com

29 Rivers 32 Lakes 36 Fishing 38 Biking 40 Play 44 Agricultural Tourism

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

49 Gather 52 Cities and Towns 65 Relax 73 Eat 77 Celebrate 83 History 90 Arts and Culture 92 Relocate 94 Traveling to Oconee County

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Oconee County - South Carolina

The Journal

Visit Oconee SC • © March 2018

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Visitors Guide • 5

EXPERIENCE THE LIFESTYLE Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains of Northeast South Carolina, Lake Keowee is conveniently located near Clemson University, Greenville and only 90 minutes from Atlanta, GA

Lake Keowee offers more than 18,000 acres of deep crystal clear water and 300 miles of pristine shoreline. “Whether looking for a luxurious waterfront home, that relaxing

mountain-lake cottage or the lot to build your future get-away, I look forward to a lasting relationship.” –Melanie Fink

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Visit Oconee SC Since 2008 we have been known as the Mountain Lakes Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB). It recently was decided to rebrand ourselves with the new name Visit Oconee SC. Visit Oconee SC is a destination marketing organization that focuses on bringing visitors into Oconee County to stay overnight, dine at our restaurants, shop at our retail stores, and visit our tourism destinations. Through the marketing efforts of Visit Oconee SC, we reach over one million people per month through the web site, visitors guides, newsletters and social media. We highlight the spectacular assets and natural wonders that are unique to our area. We offer resource so people from other places will come and stay in one of our picturesque mountain towns and enjoy all that Oconee County has to offer! Visit Oconee SC

Visitors Guide â&#x20AC;˘ 7

A Photographers View Of…

Meet Daniel Weddle On most days, while working at Moresun Custom Woodworking and Timber Frames, Daniel is on the lookout for salvageable off cuts from large timbers and other useful scraps of wood that without artistic repurposing are destined for the firewood bins. While the scrap wood that he salvages most often becomes a frame for one of the newly finished paintings on glass or canvas drying on his back porch they sometimes become something else. Most recently he has been creating oversized fishing lures with names like Grampy’s Favorite Popper and Silver Ziggy. Daniel works with two friends who craft extra large treble hooks with fire, hammer and anvil to match the sometimes four-foot-long handcarved lures. After an off cut is selected most of the shaping is done with block plane, inch and a half chisel and rough grit sandpaper. Though he claims most of the pieces of wood already look like minnows before he begins 8 • Visitors Guide

to carve them, many hours are spent connecting curves, sanding out hard corners and finally applying multiple coats of paint and finishing gloss to complete what is truly a one-of-a-kind object of art that will bring a smile to the face of anyone who has ever cast a lure or drowned a worm. “People always ask to see the rod that I’m going to cast them with…maybe someone will make one big enough someday”. After work and on those weekend days that his wife Katie Cahn, a fly fishing guide in the Golden Corner isn’t leading a trip through the Carolina or Georgia mountains, Daniel can be found peeking through a camera lens, working up a photograph of Katie as they explore and fish the waterways which wind their way through the mountains of Oconee county. Though Daniel had an interest and some experience with photography before meeting Katie, it wasn’t until she began taking him fishing with her that he began to docu-

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The Mountain Lakes Region

ment the places and moments they found themselves in while on the hunt for trout, bass and bluegill. “She’s my favorite subject,” he says, “I’d be taking pictures of her organizing her stamp collection if that’s what she was into”. Though he wouldn’t dare give up their favorite fishing spots he does suggest just driving down any one of the many gravel forest service roads that crisscross Oconee and seeing for yourself what hidden beauty and adventure awaits you. You can follow their fishing adventures on Instagram at @katiecahn or get a sneak peak at Daniel’s newest lure or painting at @danielevanweddle. Visit Oconee SC

Visitors Guide • 9

3-DAY OCONEE TOUR

the day white water rafting Day 1 Start down the Chattooga River.

Enjoy a stop by Chattooga Belle Farm where you can pick the fresh fruit in season. Walk around the country store, enjoy lunch or tour the Distillery. 10 â&#x20AC;¢ Visitors Guide

Day 2 Choose A Lake. Take a tour or rent a boat and enjoy visiting waterfalls on Lake Jocassee. Kayaking or paddleboards are always a great option.

Enjoy a campfire at one of our county or state parks before a nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep under the stars.

Enjoy the day boating on Lake Keowee. Boat up to one of the lakeside restaurants for lunch or dinner.

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Day 3 Pack a lunch and hit a trail and hike to one or several of the beautiful waterfalls in the region.

12 â&#x20AC;˘ Visitors Guide

WATERFALLS

Riley Moore Falls by Adam Wright

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. Best viewing times during December – March when insects and vines are scarce. During other months beware of yellow jackets, poison oak and poison ivy. Path is mostly on logging roads and unmarked trail, which can be dangerous. The avid, adventurous hiker should use caution. 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 083.062800 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 dangerous and difficult 3-hour hike. The adventurous, expert hiker may drive 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. Closer to the end may be rough depending on the time of year. Good fishing! GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.97128 W 083.11465

Blue Hole Falls, Mountain Rest (Map - Waterfalls 3) (Zone 1) A series of falls where water rushes 75 feet down a narrow gap into a blue hole, thus the name. Moderate 30-minute hike. Requires hiking across the creek and shimmying down to the Blue Hole. Great for swimming. Easy hike up to the falls but to actually see the falls requires some climbing and agility. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28 for 7 miles the LEFT on Whetstone Rd, 1 mile on LEFT on Cassidy Bridge Rd for 1 mile. Turn LEFT onto Rich Mountain Rd, 3.3. miles the 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 038.18613

1 Walhalla West Union

Icon Key

Easy Moderate

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Strenuous

Boat Accessible Only

Salem

Seneca Westminster

Zone Map Visitors Guide • 13

Brasstown Falls, Long Creek (Map - Waterfalls 4) (Zone 3) Four falls ranging from 20 to 40 feet, divided left and right on the trail. WEST from Westminster on Hwy 76 for 11 miles the LEFT on Brasstown Rd for 4 miles. RIGHT on FS 751. Park and follow trail. The trail to the right is a difficult and dangerous hike, not for novice hikers. Requires climbing down an unmarked but worn trail; crossing through a narrow, shallow stream; then a short walk on the trail to the falls. The left trail is a more family friendly short hike. Good swimming holes are found at both ends of the trail. Brasstown Creek BBQ is a great place to eat after this hike. Open Friday-Saturday 4:00 – 9:00. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.71908 W 083.30158 Bull Sluice Falls, Long Creek (Map - Waterfalls 5) (Zone 3) An easy hike on a well marked trail leads to a 14-foot drop on Chattooga River with whitewater in action. Fun for watching rafters and kayakers drop over a class 4 falls. Family friendly, with restrooms and a beach area for swimming nearby, but DO NOT SWIM AT THE FALLS. Go NORTHWEST on Hwy 76 from Westminster 17 miles. Parking area is before bridge at SC/GA line. Walk ¼ mile upstream. Lunch options are available before reaching the river at Chattooga Belle Farm or Humble Pie. 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. The falls is located inside Chau Ram County Park where a $2 parking fee applies. Lower parking lot provides roadside viewing. Good wading pond at foot of falls. Excellent swimming just a short, easy walk from the falls on well-marked and partially paved trail. Great place to camp and picnic. Two miles WEST of Westminster on Hwy 76 at Chau Ram County Park (entrance fee). GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.68171 W 083.14542 Chauga Narrows, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 7) (Zone 1) Located on the Chauga River, view the narrow 25-foot-high falls. A moderate hike. Great picnic spot and swimming along the river. For best viewing of falls, some climbing over rocks is required. NORTH 7 miles from Walhalla on Hwy 28. LEFT on Whetstone Rd. (S193) Go 3 miles to Blackwell Bridge over Chauga River. Park and 14 • Visitors Guide

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) Pronounced “Choy” 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. Miles. Park on RIGHT and follow the Winding Stairs Trail signs with yellow posts on RIGHT. Trail turns RIGHT in .2 miles. Make a sharp LEFT and continue 1/3 miles to clearing and hear the falls. Hike through foliage to creek. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.94220 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 long, steep, but not dangerous 2-mile hike made more difficult during spring and summer by foliage. Best visiting time is in winter. Still, in season, the creek is good for wading. Chattooga Belle Farm or Humble Pie are great places to eat along the way on Hwy 76. Travel WEST 16 miles from Westminster on Hwy 76, turn RIGHT on Chattooga Ridge Rd (S196). Go 2 miles to LEFT at Falls Creek Rd (FS 722). Take the LEFT fork

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across Falls Creek and park. Path on LEFT leads to base of the first falls and strenuous downstream hike. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.82246 W 083.25079 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. Best show of waterfall after a rain. 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. DO NOT CLIMB UP FALLS. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.863309 W 083.09820 Issaqueena Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 11) (Zone 1) An easy 5-minute walk to the viewing platforms from which you can view the beautiful waterfall named for a Creek maiden who hid on one of the falls’ ledges to avoid capture during an Indian attack. There is a rough trail next to the lowest platform, which leads to the base of the falls. However, the path is quite dangerous and visitors are not encouraged to try it. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28 for 5.5 miles, turn RIGHT at the entrance of Stumphouse Tunnel Park (entrance fee). Follow signs to waterfall, and it is worthwhile to visit Stumphouse Tunnel in the same park and Yellow Branch Falls located on the other side of Hwy 28. CPS 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 one of the best to view. Easy to moderate 30-minute hike. Trail is sometimes slippery, but well marked, with restrooms at the trail head. Beautiful sight. Family friendly. Kids can play in the pool at the base of the falls. You can hike the loop and view the river. 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 miles then LEFT by bank of creek. Cross bridge then LEFT on trail to falls. GPS coordinates to parking area: N34.97128 W 083.11465 Visit Oconee SC

Laurel Fork Falls, Salem (Map – Waterfalls 13) (Zone 1) ) You should consider visiting the fall by boat instead of hiking. Witnessing the 80-foot high falls from a boat in the waters of Lake Jocassee is a one-of-a-kind experience. There are several other falls that can be visited on the lake including Wrights Creek and Mills Creek Falls. 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 miles to the Foothills Trail/Laurel Valley Access parking lot on LEFT. There is a 16 mile round trip hike. Otherwise, access the lake via Devils Fork State Park. Boat rentals and guided tours available. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 35 02.938 W 82 48.828 Lee Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 14) (Zone 1 ) A bit hard to find, but one of Oconee’s most picturesque falls is on Tamassee Creek. No official trail makes this a challenging hike. Best visibility in wintertime. No swimming. The last ¼ mile is difficult but not dangerous, with lots of boulder climbing. 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). At the NORTH end of the parking area, strike out through the middle of the first of three fields, crossing creeks as you come to them. At the end of the last field, the trail enters the woods. Hike through the woods for .3 mile and take the LEFT fork, crossing a creek, and head toward the larger branch of Tamassee Creek. Hike another .2 mile and follow Tamassee creek upstream to a point where the trail gets very rocky and obstructed. You are less than .2 mile from the falls. You may have to cross the creek several times depending on conditions. Once you can see the falls, you should be on the SOUTH side, which is the best place to be to view the falls. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.89344 W 83.08131. Waterfall coordinates: N 34.89428 W 83.10191 Long Creek Falls, Long Creek (Map - Waterfalls 15) (Zone 3) Experience this beautiful, multi-tiered, 50-foot cascade into Chattooga River. This is a moderate hour-long hike. The last 150 feet is very steep, making for a challenging climb out. WEST from Westminster on US 76. 13 miles to Damascus Visitors Guide • 15

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 7551. Follow to small parking area and stay RIGHT to the fork. GPS coordinates to parking area: N34.77767 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 are 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 34.952139 W 82.946134 Opposum Creek Falls, Long Creek (Map - Waterfalls 17) (Zone 3) The two-hour hike to this 50-foot cascade is not dangerous, but quite strenuous. Nice picnic area and swimming at the river. Best views are in the dormant season, or from the end of May to first of June for Mountain Laurel and Rhododendron. Just keep close eye on mileage to locate the sign at the Trail Head. Just keep close eye on mileage to locate it. WEST from Westminster on US 76 for 13 miles. LEFT onto Damascus Church Rd 1 mile. RIGHT on Battle Creek Rd 1.8 miles. RIGHT on Turkey Ridge Rd (sign may be hard to see because of foliage) 2.2 miles. Park on LEFT and follow trail for 2 miles to the river, then hike upstream. GPS coordinates to parking are: N 34.77332 W 083.30361. Pigpen/Licklog Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 18) (Zone 1) This is the perfect falls for a young family, and a great place for swimming. An easy one-hour hike to two sets of falls ¼ 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. Drive to the end of the road for hiking past the Foothills Trail parking lot, then access Foothills Trail toward Chattooga River and Falls. Pigpen will be the first falls on the left with a great swimming hole. Licklog is a short distance further on the right and is a little more difficult to view from the trail, unless dormant. Continue on the trail for a few more minutes to the Chattooga River. Great place to swim and picnic. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.91905 W 083.12020 16 • Visitors Guide

Reedy Branch Falls, Long Creek (Map – Waterfalls 30) (Zone 3) This 30-foot cascade is easily accessible via a 300yard walk down a gravel road. The pull-off, with its large stone columns and iron gate, implies private property, however, it is indeed public land as the US Forest Service’s stake inside the gate indicates. According to a Forest Service ranger, the land was in the process of being developed for home sites when the Forest Service acquired it. Some remnants of this development remain. From Westminster, take US 76 for about 15 miles. Look for the pull-off on the LEFT after you pass Chattooga Ridge Road on the RIGHT. Good wading pool at the foot of the cascades. Chattooga Belle Farm and Humble Pie are great places to eat along the way on Hwy 76. 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 and is a great family destination. After a moderate 15-minute walk to the falls, a tunnel to the left brings you up in the middle of the falls. It’s also a good place for swimming. Drive 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. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.74106 W 083.18535 Secret Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 21 (Zone 1) ) A treacherous path for adventurous, physically fit hikers, Winding Stairs Trail leads to this waterfall off the beaten path. Best viewed when foliage is gone, as from April-November the path is overgrown. 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 set back into a hillside and surrounded by an explosion of shrubbery. A relatively easy path leads to the falls, which are prettiest from fall to spring when rain is plentiful.

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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 miles. Cross over Spoonauger Creek. Just after the creek, turn RIGHT at the Falls sign and hike uphill to the falls; King Creek Falls and the Chattooga River are in the same area. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.97480 W08311478 Station Cove Falls, Walhalla (Map - Waterfalls 23) (Zone 1) A stepped 60-foot waterfall that forms from headwaters atop Station Mountain. An easy, 30-minute hike through a gorgeous Appalachian cove takes you to the family friendly wading pond at the foot of the falls. 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 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. Easy 10 minute walk to a viewing platform at the end of the asphalt path. Stairs lead down to a better viewing platform. However, it is a difficult climb back up. From Hwy 11 in Salem, go NORTH on Hwy 130 ten miles and follow signs to Whitewater Falls.

Whitewater Falls, Lower, Salem 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 for 10 miles. RIGHT at Duke Energy’s Bad Creek Hydro Station. Follow the road to the parking area for the Foothills Trail. The trail to the overlook is a dangerous 1.7 miles trek. 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 34.952139 W 82.946134 Yellow Branch Falls, Mountain Rest (Map - Waterfalls 29) (Zone 1) The 60-foot cascades over rock ledges makes this falls a visitors favorite. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy 28 for 5.4 miles. Left to Yellow Branch Recreation Area. Hike a short distance on nature trail to Yellow Branch Falls Trail. 1.3 miles to the falls. GPS coordinates to parking area: N 34.80557 W083.12876

Download the Oconee County SC waterfall mobile app! It provides the user with a guide to 27 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 Oconee SC adventure. Download from your App Store.

keyword search: “SC Mountain Lakes Waterfalls” Visit Oconee SC

Visitors Guide • 17

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 “accidents” 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. From Village Creek Rd, take Hwy 107 approx. 9 miles to Burrells Ford Road. 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. Thanks to Terry Smith and his daughter Kyleigh for sharing their hiking photos.

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THE SUMTER NATIONAL FOREST

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 Visit Oconee SC

Visitors Guide • 19

■ 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. 20 • Visitors Guide

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

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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. Visit Oconee SC

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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.

Visitors Guide • 21

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 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

South Cove County Park

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.

Nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Walhalla is nature’s gift to the Upstate of South Carolina.

Waterfalls, hiking trails and river tours are all within reach of historic downtown Walhalla. Be sure and visit the Palmetto Trail at Stumphouse Mountain. Experience mountain biking at every level from beginners to more advanced, there’s fun for all!

Downtown’s Main Street is home to antique and specialty shops and a host of delightful eateries. Experience history along the footpaths of our museums that tell stories of our culture.

CityofWalhalla.com | (864) 638-4343

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.VisitOconeeSC.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. 24 • Visitors Guide

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 about the Trail, its activities, and how to

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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

Planning a day hiking or at the lake? Follow these tips to stay safe and

Enjoy Oconee Outdoors Let Someone Know when and where you’ll be hiking, and give them an estimated time to expect you back. When out in the woods, remember to use Insect Repellent, and wear Light-Colored Clothing. Science research proves that bites and stings decrease with light-colored clothing.

Be sure to re-stock or replace your First Aid Kits! Summer brings scrapes, bites, and other non-emergency mishaps with it that can be treated simply with the right supplies. Check the Weather Forecast.

Pack your Sunscreen!

If You Hear Thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. Be aware of the weather and Be Prepared To Take Shelter.

When outdoors, Drink Lots Of Fluids. Even if you feel cool in the water, you can still become dehydrated.

As a general rule, Get Out At The First Roar of thunder. Stay Out Of Water For 30 Minutes after you hear the last roar.

Visit Oconee SC

Visitors Guide • 25

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Courtesy of South Carolina Parks, Recreation and Tourism with Amick Designs

26 â&#x20AC;¢ Visitors Guide

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

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.

(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 ). 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.

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.

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 Connector of the Palmetto Trail

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■ BIKING/HIKING TRAILS (Map – Trails 12)

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. Visitors Guide • 27

■ HORSE TRAILS Rocky Gap – Willis Knob Horse Trails

(Map

– Trails 6)

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 to the Chattooga River.

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 28 • Visitors Guide

rapids and shoals. The USFS parking lot at Whitewater Falls (SC130/ NC281) is the gateway 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 26 in this guide, but more detailed information is available in the “Foothills Trail Guidebook “ and on the Foothills Trail Map, both of which are available at the Mountain Lakes office, 105 West South Broad Street in Walhalla; ordered through foothillstrail.org, 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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RIVERS 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 permits three companies to operate on the Visit Oconee SC

Whetstone Photography.

Chattooga for rafting and five companies to provide instructional clinics in whitewater canoeing and kayaking.

Visitors Guide • 29

Chattooga Whitewater Outfitters 14239 Long Creek Hwy Long Creek, SC 29658 864.647.9083 www.ChattoogaAdventures.com

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.

Nantahala Outdoor Center 851A Chattooga Ridge Rd. Mountain Rest, SC 29664 888.905.7238 www.NOC.com Wildwater Off US 76 on Academy Rd. Long Creek, SC 29658 800.451.9972 or 864.647.9587 www.WildWaterRafting.com Southeastern Expeditions 7350 Lookout Mountain Scenic Highway, Clayton, GA 30525 800.868.7238 www.SouthEasternExpeditions.com

Trip prices start as low as $75! Rafting the Chattooga whitewater in is a thrilling departure from the typical “humdrum” vacation experience. In addition to an invigorating adventure, you’ll get to enjoy some of the most breathtaking scenery found anywhere in the United States. Southeastern Expeditions offers action-packed Chattooga rafting experiences for everyone, regardless of skill level. The various sections of the river offer a wide range of whitewater allowing you to select the section of the river that best meets the experience of your family or group. Wild Section III Rafting • Wilder Section IV Rafting Camp & Raft Weekends - Gear Included Canoe and Kayak Clinics

www.southeasternexpeditions.com

CALL 800-868-7238 TODAY!

30 • Visitors Guide

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LAKES 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 90 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.” Lake Keowee Lake 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 32 • Visitors Guide

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 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 Lake Jocassee Public access to 9,000-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.

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Lake Hartwell 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 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. ■ DIVING Lake Jocassee is a world class freshwater Diving destination. The lake is one of the world’s top 25 fresh water diving destinations listed in Scuba Diving Magazine. The trout filled rivers and streams that feed Jocassee are the reason for the clarity of “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. Some other areas to

• Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday Lake Tours • Jocassee Adventure Camp! Family-focused Adventures throughout summer • Jocassee Wild Adventure Tours • Hiking and Kayak Shuttles and Kayak Tours • Full Moon Rising and Sunset Tours Please check our website for details/prices:

JocasseeLakeTours.com 864-280-5501

Tours depart from main boat ramp at Devils Fork State Park

PRIVATE TOURS ARE ALWAYS AVAILABLE! Visit Oconee SC

Visitors Guide • 33

explore 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 through. Lake Jocassee is the foremost diving destination in the Southeastern United States. From leaning Basic Open Water to Advanced Technical Diving you can’t find a better place to play and enjoy the sport of diving. ■ BOAT RENTALS & GUIDED LAKE TOURS Clemson Marina 150 Clemson Marina Dr, Seneca 864.653.6767 www.clemsonmarina.us 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 Jocassee Lake Tours www.JocasseeLakeTours.com brooksandkay@JocasseeLakeTours.com 864.280.5501 Lake Keowee Boat Rentals lakekeoweeboatrentals.com 864.280.2726 Lake Hartwell Paddleboard and Kayak Westminster www.lakehartwellpaddleboardandkayak.com 864-648-9695 Keowee Marina 150 Keowee Marina Dr., Seneca, www.lakekeoweemarina.com 864.882.2047

Providing Upscale Clean, Safe and Dependable Watercrafts while striving for Outstanding customer service.

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(864) 617-9187 34 • Visitors Guide

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Keowee Paddlesports at Hidden Cove 150 Keowee Marina Dr, Seneca Keoweepaddlesports.com 864.973.8305

Boat Rentals PONTOONS KAYAKS CANOES

Southern Outlaws Adventures Salem, SC 864-614-1019 southernoutlawadventures.com 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. Ultimate Action Sports LLC 187 Boone Creek Rd, Salem www.keoweewatersports.com 864.944.1887

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

MULTIDAY RATES

DELIVERING TO LAKES KEOWEE & JOCASSEE

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 Salem, SC 29676

For reservations call (864) 944-1887

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Offering Rentals at South Cove County Park in Seneca! Kayaks, Paddleboards & Pontoon Boat Rentals

Book Online! www.LakeHartwellSUP.com 864-648-9695 Visitors Guide • 35

FISHING Five state records and one world record! What more can we say about fishing in Oconee County. With over 90,000 acres of lakes and over 100 miles of rivers and streams, you can hook up with world class stripers, hybrids, bass, trout, catfish, crappie and pan fish year round. Tackle shops and expert guides await you to assist in your angling experience, whether it be on one of our many lakes or fly fishing on the rivers. Lake Jocassee holds all the records including the world record Red Eye Bass and state records for Small Mouth Bass, Spotted Bass, Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout. The Walhalla Fish Hatchery stocks Jocassee annually with Brown and Rainbow Trout. Lake Keowee is well known for a strong population of Spots and Crappie. Lake Hartwell is the place to go for trophy Stripers, Hybrids, Catfish and a live well full of Crappie. Lake Tugaloo is a small lake limited to 20 HP motors, but the fish are plenty including Trout, Bass and Walleye. And then there are the Rivers! The Chattooga and Chauga Rivers are heavily stocked with Brown, Rainbow and Brook Trout from the Walhalla Fish Hatchery. The rivers are great for fly fishing, spinning reel or cane pole. Don’t know how to fly fish? Hire a guide. They will take you to the river with all the gear, show you how to cast and you are sure to catch some trout before the day’s end. For more details on our lake rivers, please visit our website at www.VisitOconeeSC.com. ■ LICENSING South Carolina fishing licenses are available 36 • Visitors Guide

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. Non-resident fees are $35 annually and $11 for a seven-day permit. No additional stamps are required. ■ PRIVATE FISHING LAKE Go Fish! 461 Williams Farm Road, Westminster www.gofishupstate.com 864.886.6886 ■ FISHING GUIDES Carolina Outdoorsman montym@innova.net 864.647.7410 cotvshow.com via contact page Capt. Bill’s Fishing Adventures 864.287.2120, 864.230.7363 lakehartwellfishing.com Lakes: Hartwell Chattooga River Fly Shop Guide Service 864.638.2806 chattoogariverflyshop.com

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Fishski Business LLC Guided Fishing 864.353.3438 www.fishski.info Lakes: Hartwell, Jocassee 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 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 Southern Outlaws Adventures Fly Fishing 864-614-1019 southernoutlawadventures.com ■ LOCAL BAIT & TACKLE SHOPS The Bait Shop 105 Jenkins Circle, Townville 864.287.5005 Chattooga River Fly Shop 6832-A Highlands Hwy, Mountain Rest www.chattoogariverflyshop.com 864.638.2806 Dickson Tractor Inc. 303 E. North Ave, Westminster 864.647.0791 Jocassee Outdoor Center 516 Jocassee Lake Rd., Salem 864.944.9016 Visit Oconee SC

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

Capt. Steve Pietrykowski Phone: 864.353.3438

www.HartwellGuidedFishing.com Visitors Guide • 37

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 annual cycling events in Oconee County beginning in April and running until October. The events start with Issaqueenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Last Ride (ILRSC.com), followed by Rally in the Valley (oconeeforever.org/rallyvalley), Excel Rehab & Sports Ride for Wellness and Road Titans 300 (roadtitans300.com) a 100 mile challenge each day for three days in October. 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

38 â&#x20AC;˘ Visitors Guide

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www.VisitOconeeSC.com

The Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park opens spring 2018! Discover a dream come true destination for spectacular mountain biking & hiking!

Groundbreaking, November 2017 Photo Courtesy of Rex Brown | The Journal

t --

Palmetto Trail RTP - Project Begin RTP - Project End

_____________________ -- Phase I Trails (Not

USGS 1:24,000 Whetstone, SC Quadrangle

-- RTP Funding Reques

USGS 1:24,000 Walhalla, SC Quadrangle

il Sys tem nta in Mul ti-u se Tra Stu mph ous e Mou

RTP) --

ry Bounda Boundary Loop Loop

More Difficult

_____________________ -- Phase II Trails (Not

Entry Entry Loop Loop

_____________________

find the trail:

Lake Lake Loop Loop

RTP) --

Conceptual Only

Trails built to U.S. Forest Service and mountain biking standards — not for motorized vehicles.

Middle Middle Loop Loop

Easy Trails

Very Difficult

Anchored by the mountains-to-sea Palmetto Trail (among the best thru hikes in the U.S.), Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park, a network of cycling trails, will open in April of 2018 with 1.5 miles of beginner cycling along with the 1.5-mile Palmetto Trail Stumphouse Passage. Intermediate and advanced trails are set to open in the fall of 2018.

Stumphouse Tunnel Isaqueena Falls Parking - Isaqueena

Falls

Stumphouse Tunnel

Parking - Proposed New Parcel Boundary

Kilometers 0

Isaqueena Falls

0.125 0.25 Miles

0.125

0.25

0.5 0.5

Trails are located 7 miles NW of Walhalla at Stumphouse Tunnel & Issaqueena Falls. From Walhalla, take Main St. northwest onto Highlands Hwy. (SC 28) to Stumphouse Tunnel Rd. on the right. Follow signs for parking and trailhead.

For more information, visit palmettoconservation.org.

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 40 • Visitors Guide

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. ■ 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 yearround. 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

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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. ■ RODEO The Golden Corner is host to a number of rodeo events. For additional information, visit www.iprarodeo.com or contact the Oconee Chamber at 864.647.5316.

Visit Oconee SC

■ 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 Golden Corner Lakes Sail & Power Squadron 864.888.4366 www.gclsaps.com ■ 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

Visitors Guide • 41

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 holidays or just bring your kids by the arcade; stopping by will brighten up any day. Their facility offers a mini golf course, go-carts, 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. ■ 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. ■ EQUESTRIAN CENTER Whether you are a horse owner, a riding enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy a day on horseback, the Equestrian Center at The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards offers facilities and programs geared toward enjoying access to more than 200 miles of scenic riding trails through the Jocassee Gorge State Park. Spend a day seeing the nature of the surrounding area from a different vantage point. For those without their own horse, trail rides may be booked thru Saddle Creek Vistas which offers guided tours surrounding Lake Keowee. 162 Arrowleaf Ln., Sunset, SC 29685 864-868-9969 ■ 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 42 • Visitors Guide

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. 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. Foxwood Hills Golf Course (Map - Golf 5) 300 Brighton Dr., Westminster, SC 29693 864.986.5730 Under new management. Well groomed 9 hole course suitable for all levels of skill 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. 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. 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.

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Keowee Key Golf & Country Club (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. 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. Random draw doubles Mondays in the summer at 6 pm. 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 random draw doubles that

is open to anyone. They play at 10am during the spring and summer and at 1pm during the fall and winter months. 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. ■ 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.

Disc Golf at Chattooga Belle Farms

Visit Oconee SC

Visitors Guide • 43

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 44 • Visitors Guide

event facility. The Farm Store is open daily from 9-5 and the recently added Belle’s Diner serves lunch from 11am-2pm, Tuesday thru Sunday. Gnat Hill Orchard and Farm 310 Laurel Springs Rd, Just of Hwy 76 Long Creek, 864-723-2410 Several varieties of apples, fresh apple cider, blueberries, pecans, local honey, Open: June through mid-Novermber Hollifield’s Apple Orchard 161 Hollifield Lane, Long Creek 864-710-5104 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

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Westminster Farmers Market Running June until October on Tuesdays evenings from 4pm-7pm located at 135 East Main Street. 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.

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. 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.

Louderbranch Farms Midway Market 912 East Main Street Walhalla, SC 864-638-2255 The market is always open. Visit Oconee SC

Visitors Guide • 45

Chattooga Belle Farm provides all-day excursion Those who have visited Chattooga Belle Farm are keenly aware it takes little more than a rocking chair and the amazing view of the Blue Ridge Mountain Mountains to keep visitors on the farm from sunup to sundown. But, obviously, there’s much more to the farm than just the pristine view, as there are plenty of other activities available to literally keep visitors happy for the entire day. Long a popular event site — there’s no counting the number of weddings and other activities the farm has hosted over the years — the 138-acre farm was owned in part by Groucho Marx offers not only opportunities to pick a wide range of fruit, but there’s also disc golf, a restaurant serving grass-fed beef straight from the farm, a farm store offering a little something for everyone and a distillery, where all aspects of the distilling process, including the growing of the fruit, take place right on the farm. “If you’re not growing, you’re backing up,” said Ed Land, who co-owns the farm with his wife, Kitty. “If you’re not constantly thinking about growing, then you’re stagnant.” Long a fixture at the farm, Belle’s Bistro is open for lunch from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday from April through De46 • Visitors Guide

cember with a menu full of signature soups, salads and sandwiches. There’s also an ample menu of farm-produced wine and domestic beer as well. For those looking for something with a little more kick, the Oconee County’s only legal distillery — which features tasting for a sampling fee — is located right at the farm. The Chattooga Belle Farm Distillery uses the farm’s excess fruit to make a variety of brandies, made with all-natural ingredients grown on the farm. They also produce a couple whiskies and it’s trademarked MuscaShine, their version of

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moonshine made with muscadines from their vineyard. They recently premiered their Dark Sun Vodka, commemorating the 2017 solar eclipse taking place August 21, have a gin on the way and more products all the time. “The unique thing about our farm is all the fruit is grown here, harvested here, fermented here, distilled here, bottled here and sold here,,” he said. “Not many places can say that, and that’s what we’re kind of proud of. It’s a truly local product.” When you step out the back of the distillery, there’s the apple orchard, and there’s the peach orchard. The grapes aren’t far away, and the muscadines are over the hill. Land even feeds the leftover fruit pomace to his cattle, who can eventually be purchased both in the farm’s bistro and farm store. “I don’t know if you can find apple-fed beef anywhere in the country,” Land said with a laugh. The farm store, located near Belle’s Bistro, is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. seven days a week, April through December, and by appointment year-round. The farm also operates a roadside fruit stand on U.S. Highway 76 near the Long Creek Gen-

eral Store. This spring they will be adding a feed and hardware division to serve their community with necessities that usually require a long drive to retrieve. The farm is located at 454 Damascus Church Road in Long Creek. For more information, email info@chattoogabellefarm.com, call (864) 647-9768, or visit chattoogabellefarm.com.

Buyers and Sellers have relied on our professionalism and hard work for over 40 years.

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Visitors Guide • 47

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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. Visit Oconee SC 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. Visit Oconee SC 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@visitoconeesc.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

Seneca Westminster

Sport Facilities

Fitness Center

Trails

Kitchen

Trails

Visit Oconee SC

West Union

Complimentary Breakfast

Bed & Breakfast Agriculture Tourism

Salem

Zone Map Visitors Guide â&#x20AC;˘ 49

Experienced • Local Family Owned

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)

Sales • Marketing • Rentals Property Management

161 Holcombe Circle Salem, SC 29676 864-944-2639 devilsfork@scprt.com Diakonia Retreat Center (Zone 1)

Lisa Ancona, Broker/Owner 102 N. Fairplay St • Seneca 864-882-6670 • carolinahomesc.com

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The natural beauty of the nine-acre property offers stunning wedding photography with the oldest oak trees in the county, lovely vintage backdrops, and beautiful landscapes in all seasons! Together with complete service, our property is the perfect setting for weddings and special events.

Magnolia Manor Bed and Breakfast

50 • Visitors Guide

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207 Westminster Highway Westminster, SC 864-647-8559 www.magnoliamanorbb.com

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Gignilliat 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) 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 Historic Ballenger House (Zone 2) 212 E. S. Third Street Seneca, SC 29678 864-324-8417 www.ballengerhouse.org Keowee Key The Club (Zone 1) 130 Club Drive 1 Country Club Lane Salem, SC 29676 864-944-2155 Magnolia Manor Bed and Breakfast (Zone 3) 207 Westminster Hwy Westminster, SC 29693 864-647-8559 www.magnoliamanorbb.com Oconee State Park (Zone 1) 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 Shaver Recreation Complex (Zone 2) 698 W. S. 4th Street Seneca, SC 29678 864-885-2709 www.seneca.sc.us Visit Oconee SC

South Cove Park (Zone 2) 1031 South Cove Road Seneca, SC 29672 864-882-5250 www.experienceoconee.com Tamassee DAR (Zone 1) 1925 Bumgardner Drive Tamassee, SC 29686 864-944-1390 www.tdarschool.org The Lighthouse of Lake Keowee (Zone 2) 1290 Doug Hollow Road Seneca, SC 29672 864-888-4446 www.lighthousekeowee.com Walhalla Civic Auditorium (Zone 1) 101 E. North Broad Street Walhalla, SC 29691 864-638-5277 www.walhallacivic.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 Visitors Guide â&#x20AC;¢ 51

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. 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 from Englandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s General Merchandise of Westminster, which operated for nearly 100 years on Main Street. Westminster Music Centre is housed in a 100-year old building that once was a grocery store. The Centre 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. 52 â&#x20AC;˘ Visitors Guide

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FOOD & DRINK Westminster is home to several home-style cooking diners which are very popular for a hardy breakfast to start your day or a relaxing lunch after a day on the river. For a taste of Mexico Puerto Nuevo is sure to please. While exploring Main Street be sure to stop in Little Japan for sushi or other japanese cuisine. While exploring our waterfalls, stop at Brasstown Creek BBQ for some amazing BBQ. Open on Fridays and Saturdays from 4:00 - till they run out of food which is always early! Visit Yousef’s, Waters Restaurant or Beef and Rib for delicious southern cuisine. SHOPPING Barrett’s Trading Company – camping gear/ outdoor 128 East Main Street Palmetto Home Place – 103 East King Street Wishbook Furnishing – 204 East Main Street Baron’s Antiques – 2020 Toccoa Highway

The Westminster Music Centre is a non-profit, community focused music venue in downtown Westminster, SC. We are proud to host the region’s finest musicians, artists, & performers on our state-of-the-art stage. Fostered by our small town warmth and hospitality, The Westminster Music Centre provides the Upstate and beyond with music as it’s meant to be … Up Close and Personal!

Join Us as We Host

Music on Main 1st Fridays April-October Free Downtown Concerts

Bi-monthly Indoor Concerts Featuring the Region’s Top Performers

Monthly Open Mic Nite

864-648-9005

101 W. MAIN STREET WESTMINSTER, SC 29693 www.westminstermusiccentre.org

Use promo code ‘MLVG’ for 15% off 1st online ticket purchase Visit Oconee SC

Visitors Guide • 53

, 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 April 26-28 – Street Fest May 6-7 – Mayberry Days on Main Street September 4-9 – 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 Centre can be found at www.westminstermusiccentre.org

(864) 647-5316

WALHALLA

ARTS • OUTDOOR ADVENTURE • PLAY

! e r e h l l a It’s

Performances at the Walhalla Performing Arts Center Antiquing • Museums • Ballparks • Chattooga River Rafting Waterfalls • Hiking Trails • Sitting on Lake Keowee Boating on Jocassee • Pool Swimming • Picnics at the Park Oconee Heritage Center

Swim all Summer at the Walhalla City Pool

OPENS MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND! Swim Lessons • Water Exercises Swim Teams

Sertoma Field

Local Farmers, growers, craftsmen, and artists! June through September Main Street

Independence Eve

Walhalla Performing Arts Center

in Walhalla

Walhalla Soccer Field Tuesday, July 3 Fireworks • Children’s Activities • Music Visit Oconee SC

CityofWalhalla.com

Visitors Guide • 55

WALHALLA WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL Walhalla is an 1850 German settlement town. It 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 three 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 a truly the end or beginning of a fabulous trek across the beautiful state inviting the more adventurous seeker to hike or bike the trails. Challenging whitewater of the picturesque Chattooga River is just a few minute drive from the tree lined Main Street. Large oak and maple trees line the sidewalks that pass in front of graceful churches and grand homes whispering of times past. Walhalla has mountains, lakes and rivers. They have sights to make you shiver. Renew your spirt in beautiful Walhalla! MUST SEE 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 56 â&#x20AC;˘ Visitors Guide

#visitoconeesc

www.VisitOconeeSC.com

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. Arts are shared throughout the year at the Walhalla Preforming Arts Center. 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. FOOD & DRINK Walhalla eateries offer a range of dining options from cafeteria style to al-fresco. Menus include the area’s best fried chicken at Walhalla Steak House Cafeteria, pizzas, subs and salads from Carolina Pizza Company, breakfast, a meat and three at Pete’s Drive In. Enjoy Mexican cuisine and margaritas 3 Amigos Mexican Grill. Hector’s Place offers breakfast or lunch. Enjoy CC Fudge & More’s ice cream, fudge and more! 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 Twenty8West – outdoor store 214 East Main Street Warther’s Antiques 321 E Main Street

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Visitors Guide • 57

SENECA

WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL The City of Seneca was excited to open the Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum in 2016. It is the second city-owned museum and is and inclusive cultural institution underscoring the rich, colorful, turbulent story and impact of the local African American community. 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. 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 institution 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. 58 • Visitors Guide

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www.VisitOconeeSC.com

Vangelis. For lunch grab an all beef dog at Alley Dogs. Get your caffeine or beer fix, with craft beers, at Brews on the Alley. Enjoy live music every Thursday starting April until October at Jazz on the Alley at Ram Cat Alley.

FOOD & DRINK Enjoy lakeside dining at The Lighthouse, overlooking Lake Keowee. The Cabana at The Lighthouse sits beside the lake with open air dining and bar. If you are looking for sushi, gilled ribeye or some tapas to enjoy with friends head to Sole’ Grill and Sushi Bar,reservations are recommended. Ram Cat Alley offers many dining choices including The Spot on the Alley, a sports bar known for its wings and burgers. Enjoy Capone’s for a laid back speakeasy, with Southern Cuisine featuring steaks, burgers, seafood and spirits. Enjoy fine dining featuring regionally sourced meats and vegetables at

SHOPPING Green Springs – gifts 114 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 Sensibly Chic – baskets/home décor 124 Ram Cat Alley LL Cools – 117 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca 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 off the Alley – 123 N Townville St

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City of

Seneca spring/summer

2018

Every Thursday April - October on Ram Cat Alley

First Saturdays April - October Downtown on Main Street

-26 MAY 25

2018

Featuring The Kentucky Headhunters Special Guest Terri Clark & Friday Night Wrestling Don't miss the award-winning fireworks display at Gignilliat Field. Free for the whole family. Starring Funk Factory and Stone Echo! Follow us on Facebook

Seneca SC Events

More info at www.seneca.sc.us

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 Silver 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 and more! Their newly opened Distillery features four brandies and one whiskey and free samples. 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. 62 • Visitors Guide

#visitoconeesc

www.VisitOconeeSC.com

TOWNS FAIR PLAY 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 Palmetto Pizza & Subs. 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 or The Vintage Market – 168 Scenic Plaza Dr NEWRY 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. When you’re ready to eat visit Mountain Rest Cafe, 7057 Highlands Highway, for Southern and American food. 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. Visit Oconee SC

Visitors Guide • 63

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 chattoogasoundscamping@yahoo.com 2851 Damascus Church Road • Long Creek

ChattoogaSounds.com

RELAX

Photo by Al Ward

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

Salem

Icon Key Meeting Space Group Tours

Kitchen

Wedding Space

Smoke-Free Options

Cabins / Campgrounds Bed & Breakfast Restaurant Agriculture Tourism Internet Fitness Ceneter

Visit Oconee SC

Walhalla West Union

Complimentary Breakfast Washer/Dryer Available <10 mi. from water

Swimming Pool

Seneca Westminster

Lodging Sport Facilities Trails

Zone Map Visitors Guide • 65

Mountain Rest Cabins & Campground (Zone 3)

A CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY

Fine Art

Handmade Items

Unique Gifts

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

Featuring Local Artists

124 RamCat Alley, Seneca 864.882.7697 loblollyarts.com Open Tuesday-Saturday 10-5

quality custom american

furniture

➥ 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 864.885.0710, 800.329.7466 www.daysinn.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 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

708 Bypass 123, Seneca | 864.888.0505 www.elegantdistinctive.com 66 • Visitors Guide

➥ Bed and Breakfast Lowry House Inn (Zone 2) 206 S. Fairplay St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.888.0122, 888.290.9686 www.lowryhouseinn.com #visitoconeesc

www.VisitOconeeSC.com

Lofts Over Main 216 East Main Street, Walhalla, SC

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.

Magnolia Manor (Zone 3) 207 Westminster Hwy., Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.8559, www.magnoliamanorbb.com Three Pines View (Zone 1) 151 Shack Hollow Rd, Salem, SC 29676 www.threepinesview.com 864-784-2974 ➥ Vacation Rental Homes Lofts Over Main 216 East Main Street Walhalla, SC 29691 Visit Oconee SC

Bear Pond Cabin (Zone 1) 307 Hyatt Dr., Salem, SC 29676 864.877.7558, www.scvacationcabin.com Carolina Home Real Estate (Zone 2) 102 N. Fairplay St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.6670 www.carolinahomesc.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 Historic Whetstone Place 720 Rocky Gap Rd Mountain Rest, SC 29664 (WEBSITE or PHONE NUMBER COMING) Jocassee Lodge (Zone 1) Lake Jocassee, Salem, SC 29676 864.517.3601 www.jocasseelodge.com Visitors Guide • 67

www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder

Keowee Key Rentals (Zone 1) 1390 Stamp Creek Rd., Salem, SC 29676 864.944.2400, 800.537.5253 www.1stchoicerealty-sc.com

Oconee State Park 624 State Park Rd., Mountain Rest, SC 29664 866.345.PARK, 864.638.5353 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder

Maple Crest Lake Jocassee (Zone 1) 694 Jocassee Lake Rd., Salem, SC 29676 864.719.9494, www.jocassee-vacation.com

High Falls County Park (Zone 2) 671 High Falls Rd., Seneca, SC 29672 864.882.8234, www.experienceoconee.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.”

Robinson Lake Front Lodge at Jocassee (Zone 1) Salem, SC 864.616.1273 www.jocasseelakehouse.com

1099 South Cove Rd., Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.5250, www.experienceoconee.com

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

Top Gun Realty 864.784.9977 www.homeaway.com/Vacation-rentals/ South-Carolina-vacation-rentals.htm

Carolina Landing (Zone 2) Fair Play, SC 29643 864-972-9892

Vacation Rental By Owner (Zone 2) Lake Keowee, Seneca, SC 770.717.1516, www.vrbo.com/96259

Chattooga Sounds Camp (Zone 3) 2851 Damascus Church Road Long Creek, SC 29658 864.647.6196, 864.710.8032 http://www.chattoogasounds.com

Villas of Foxwood Hills (Zone 3) 10 Kinston Manor Dr., Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.9533, 800.477.3155 www.foxwoodhillsresort.com

Long Creek Campground (Zone 3) 165 Raines Rd, Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.647.1938 www.longcreekcampground.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

Keowee Falls RV Park (Zone 1) Keowee Camp Road, West Union, 29696 864.638.5716 www.keoweerv.com

Mountain Rest Cabins and Campground 175 Homeland Dr., Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.718.0333, www.mountainrestcamping.com

68 • Visitors Guide

South Cove County Park (Zone 2)

Coneross Park (Zone 2) 699 Coneross Park Rd., Townville, SC 29689 888.893.0678, www.reserveamerica.com

RH Properties 200 Hunter Avenue, Walhalla 864.784.0170

Devils Fork State Park 161 Holcombe Cir., Salem, SC 29676 866.345.PARK, 864.944.2639

Oconee Point (Zone 2) 200 Oconee Point Rd., Seneca, SC 29678 888.893.0678, www.reserveamerica.com

Lake Hartwell RV Park (Zone 3) 14503 S Highway 11, Westminster, SC 29693 864-972-0555 www.lakehartwellrvpark.com

#visitoconeesc

www.VisitOconeeSC.com

Experience, Service, Results. Your Real Estate Guide to Lake Keowee

Linda Duryea (864) 719-0419

Beth Wilson (864) 903-2194

Buying or Selling?

Julie Johnson (843) 826-0088

Call the Lake Keowee Specialist

Wayne Montague (864) 710-6269

Doug Patterson (864) 238-3176

RE/MAX Realty Professionals-Lake Keowee 305 McCall Brothers Drive, Suite A Salem, SC 29676 Open Mon-Sat 9-5 and Sun 1-5 (864) 944-5559

Scarlett Fravel (864) 723-4372

Delane Graham (864) 324-1217

Salem 11

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We Are Here

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Exit 1

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Clemson

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Search homes for sale at www.MovingToLakeKeowee.com

150 THINGS 2018 YOU MUST DO IN Oconee County’s 150 Things To Do in 2018 is now an App for Apple & Android! Simply search for Oconee County, SC and look for our logo!

TAKE A HIKE!

Grab a waterfall hikes brochure, local visitor’s guide or download our SC Waterfalls mobile app for details and directions to any of our 26 beautiful Oconee County waterfalls. Plan ahead and be prepared for your hike.

1. Bee Cove Falls 2. Big Bend Falls 3. Blue Hole Falls 4. Brasstown Falls 5. Bull Sluice Falls 6. Cham Ram Park (Ramsey Creek Falls)

7. Chauga Narrows 8. Cheohee/Miuka Falls 9. Fall Creek Falls 10. Hidden Falls 11. Issaqueena Falls 12. King Creek Falls 13. Laurel Fork Falls

14. Lee Falls 15. Long Creek Falls 16. Mills Creek Falls 17. Opossum Creek Falls 18. Pigpen Falls 19. Reedy Branch Falls 20. Riley Moore Falls

21. Secret Falls 22. Spoonauger Falls 23. Station Cove Falls 24. Whitewater Falls (Lower) 25. Wrights Creek Falls 26. Yellow Branch Falls

DISCOVER THE GREAT OUTDOORS! Enjoy all there is to offer in the “Land Beside the Waters” with family and friends!

27. Enjoy a boat tour of Lake Jocassee 28. Whitewater raft down the Wild & Scenic Chattooga River 29. Enjoy the view at Chattooga Belle Farm 30. Hike the Foothills Trail 31. Grab a flashlight & visit Stumphouse Tunnel 32. Enjoy the many offerings of the Sumter National Forest 33. Take a drive & see the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail 34. Pick-up fresh Oconee grown fruits & vegetables at one of our 4 local farmers markets 35. Grab a bike & see Oconee County on 2 wheels 36. Cast a line & catch a bass on Lake Hartwell, Keowee & Jocassee 37. Pull on some waders & fly fish on the Chauga & Chattooga Rivers 38. Rent a pontoon & enjoy the day on Lakes Hartwell, Keowee & Jocassee 39. Play a round of disc golf 40. Hit the pavement for the Seneca Half Marathon 41. Hike the Chattooga Trail 42. Head to one of Oconee’s 4 State Parks for a picnic or swim 43. Pitch a tent or park your RV at one of Oconee’s 3 County Parks 44. Rent a kayak or learn to paddle board at South Cove County Park 45. Paddle around Lake Tugalo 46. Hit the links at any of our many golf courses 47. Saddle up & go horseback riding 48. Try local honey from one of our 100+ beekeepers… Sourwood honey is local specialty. 49. Build a campfire, tell ghost stories, & eat s’mores 50. Rent a vacation cabin for the weekend 51. Take a family picture on the suspension bridge at Chau Ram County Park 52. Find some hidden treasure on a geocache or letterbox outing 53. Pitch in for the Think Oconee/Keep Oconee Beautiful litter campaign

54. Enjoy spring break programs at South Cove County Park 55. Catch a trout on Lake Jocassee 56. Find an Oconee Kindness Rock & share on Facebook (Oconee Rocks) 57. Check out the fall foliage 58. Run a 5K 59. Feed the fish at the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery 60. Hike the East Fork trail from Fish Hatchery parking lot 61. Get your adrenaline pumping with a zipline canopy tour at Wildwater LLC 62. Enjoy fresh Oconee apples at one of our many U-pick orchards OR roadside markets 63. Take the kids for a family outing to “Go Fish” stocked catfish pond 64. Try your hand at Pickle Ball 65. Visit the South Carolina Foothills Heritage Fair & see how an old-fashioned fair should be 66. Try guided striper fishing on Lake Hartwell 67. Take a jump off the high dive at Oconee State Park 68. See the rare elusive Oconee Bell via the Oconee Bell trail at Devils Fork State Park 69. Attend a Farm-to-Table dinner 70. Watch a movie at the World of Energy Movie Night 71. Sport your Halloween costume at Boo by the Lake at South Cove Park 72. Cool off with a family tubing trip down the river (plan ahead & know your route/time needed) 73. Take in the panorama at the Oscar Wigington Scenic Overlook 74. Take a stroll down any of our cities’ charming main streets for shops & snacks.

MUSEUMS AND HISTORIC SITES

Visit a museum or historic site and learn about our local area and what has made Oconee County so special for the last 150 years!

75. Oconee History Museum (Oconee Heritage Center) 76. Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum 77. General Store Museum 78. Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina 79. Patriot’s Hall: Oconee Veterans Museum 80. Lunney House Museum 81. Oconee Station State Historic Site 82. World of Energy 83. Historic Old Pickens Church 84. Oconee State Park 85. Westminster Depot

86. Blue Ridge Field 87. St. John’s Lutheran Church 88. Old Saint John’s Meeting House 89. Bethel Presbyterian Church 90. Alexander Cannon Hill House 91. Retreat Rosenwald School 92. Russell Farmstead Site in Sumter National Forest 93. Historic Ballenger House 94. Foothills Farmstead 95. Tour a historic cemetery 96. Visit all of our historical markers

ARTS AND CULTURAL

Oconee’s history, heritage, and natural beauty has inspired many wonderful artists and musicians

97. Take a class or view an exhibition at the Blue Ridge Arts Center 98. Support the Full Moon Artists 99. Visit End of the Road Studios 100. Paint a picture at Walhalla Art Works 101. Visit Arts off the Alley for some unique souvenirs or gifts 102. Check out the unique kudzu crafts at Kudzu Kabin Designs 103. Grab a book or enjoy a program at one of our 4 public libraries 104. Catch a musical act or play at Walhalla Civic Auditorium 105. Relax at Seneca’s Jazz on the Alley 106. Support local musicians at the Westminster Music Centre 107. Immerse yourself in a comedy or drama at Oconee Community Theatre

108. Bring your lawn chair for Westminster’s Music on Main 109. Enjoy the pickin’ & grinnin’ at Long Creek’s Silver Dollar Music Hall 110. Spot the cats on historic Ram Cat Alley 111. Kick up your heels at the Oconee State Park Square Dance 112. Complete a Passport to Arts, Treasures & History from Oconee Arts & Historical Commission 113. Learn a new instrument at Oconee Heritage Center 114. Get in the Christmas spirit at one of Oconee’s Christmas parades 115. Take a walking tour of historic downtown Walhalla, Westminster, or Seneca 116. Share the beauty of Oconee & enter the “Keep Oconee Beautiful Association” Photo Contest

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS Oconee’s calendar is dotted with festivals and fun all year long.

117. Seneca Fest 4th of July 118. South Carolina Apple Festival - Westminster 119. Oktoberfest - Walhalla 120. July 4th Hillbilly Day – Mountain Rest 121. Labor Day Brew N Que – Seneca 122. South Carolina Foothills Heritage Fair – The F.A.R.M. Center in Seneca 123. Oconee Belle Fest at Devils Fork State Park 124. Westminster Street Fest 125. Long Creek Music Festival 126. Fun in the Sun Festival-West Union

127. Cruzin on Main Classic Car Cruise Ins with the Big Show 128. Tamassee Brew Festival 129. Long Creek Fall Picnic/Music 130. Appalachian Homecomin - Salem 131. Issaqueena’s Last Ride Cycling Challenge 132. Home, Health & Life Expo - Seneca 133. INT Wakeboard/WakeSurf event-South Cove Park 134. Rally in the Valley cycling event - Walhalla 135. Mountains to Main Triathlon-South Cove Park 136. Old Keowee Contra Dance-South Cove County Park 137. Seneca Jeep Fest

FOODIE TREATS You gotta eat! Oconee has something for everyone… 138. Ice cream scoop at Ye Old Sandwich Shoppe, CC Fudge & More, or Sweet Retreat 139. Try the South Carolina State Snack, boiled peanuts, at Pelfrey’s (corner of Whetstone Road & Highway 28 north of Walhalla). 140. Get saucy & have some BBQ at Black’s BBQ, Brasstown BBQ, Heavenly Hog, Little Pigs BBQ, or the Spotted Pig 141. Order the fried chicken at Walhalla Steakhouse Cafeteria 142. Relax with a view of Rabun Bald from Belle’s Bistro at Chattooga Belle Farm 143. Savor a sandwich or salad at Presst or Blue Marble 144. Have a fancy date at Vangeli’s Bistro, Paesano’s, Capone’s or the The Lighthouse

145. Meet some friends after work at Sole Sushi Bar & Grill or The Tiki Hut 146. Grab a burger at Time Drive-In, Bantam Chef, or Lucky Strike 147. Try something spicy at Taco Riendo, Puerto Nuevo, Three Amigos, or Los Amigos 148. Pick a meat & three at Kountry Kupboard or Mountain View 149. Enjoy a slice at Carolina Pizza, Humble Pie, or Joe’s New York Pizza Kitchen 150. Find your drinks at Solé, Brews on the Alley, Spot on the Alley or the Beer Station

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 72 • Visitors Guide

230 Madren Center Drive • Clemson University • Clemson, SC #visitoconeesc www.VisitOconeeSC.com 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.VisitOconeeSC.com Visit Oconee SC

Twelve Beers On Tap Extensive Craft Beer Selection Gluten Free Menu Available Tuesdays: Trivia Wednesdays: Bingo Fridays: Live Music Voted Best Bar & Best Hot Wings

Sunday Brunch 10 am - Noon 122 Ram Cat Alley • Seneca

www.thespot.us Visitors Guide • 73

FAIR PLAY

SALEM

 BBQ

 Breakfast

15491 SC-11, 864-972-9999

281 Stamp Creek Rd, 864-944-8100

The Spotted Pig BBQ

The Grill at Clemson Marina

150 Clemson Marina Drive, 864-653-6767

Lighthouse

Sisters Restaurant

 Burgers  Sandwiches

Mexican

1602 Cherokee Foothills Scenic Hwy, 9720999

8211 SC-11, 864-944-0738

Anelo Grill

Habanero’s Mexican Grill

 Pizza

 Pizza & Deli

17016 SC-11, 864-972-0430

15740 North Hwy 11, 864-944-1000

LONG CREEK

SENECA

 American

 American • Bar • Grill

Palmetto Pizza & Subs

Belle’s Bistro (Open May thru October) 454 Damascus Church Rd, 864-647-9768

Chattooga River Resort 14239 Hwy 76, 864-873-7310

Humble Pie Pizza

13239 Long Creek Hwy, 864-647-9098

MOUNTAIN REST

Keowee Towne Café

12019 N Radio Station Rd, 864-973-8978 113 Ram Cat Alley, 864-882-3882

Sole Grill and Sushi Bar 700 By Pass 123, 864-882-9463 Plus Tappas, Sushi, Seafood

The Spot on the Alley

Alley Dogs

106 Fairplay Street, 864=614-9778

Beyond the Bull

Brews on the Alley

122 Ram Cat Alley, 864-985-0102

Tiki Hut

156 Keowee Marina Drive, 864-882-0800 Lakeside Bar

World Class Cheeseburgers 15951 Wells Hwy, 864-888-8995

109 Ram Cat Alley, 864-973-8923 Craft Beer, Wines, Coffee Station

 Asian

Cheers

364 Market St, 864-886-0688

 Southern & American

1069 123 Bypass, 864-873-9087

7057 Highlands Hwy, 864-638-0026

514 US-123, 864-888-8788

Mountain Rest Cafe

Presst Food & Wine

Capone’s Brickhouse Grill

8095 Keowee School Rd, 864-508-1254 Plus Wild Game, Seafood

 Pizza

1290 Doug Hollow Rd, 864-888-4446 Upscale & Casual Options

Copper River Grill

Asian Buffet

Atami Express

117 Rochester Hwy #C, 864-882-1550

$3.56 Sushi Rolls Mondays

BOGO Sushi Rolls Wednesdays

1/2 Price Wine Bottles Thursdays

Chef’s Specials Fridays

700 By Pass 123, Seneca solesushi.com Monday - Saturday 4-10 p.m. 864.882.9463 Reservations Encouraged 74 • Visitors Guide

ers in We Are the lead ous for ng, fam Southern Cooki g chicken. n our finger-licki rant located Restau Cafeteria-Style alhalla, SC in Downtown W

www.thesteakhousecafeteria.com #visitoconeesc

www.VisitOconeeSC.com

 Irish

 Mexican

China Inn

695 By Pass 123, 864-973-9925 Plus Traditional American

108 S Catherine Street, 864-638-2016

China Wok

 Italian

Carolina Pizza Company

1727 Blue Ridge Blvd, 864-882-3368

 Sandwiches  Desserts

Chin Chin

1026 By Pass 123, 864-886-1228 506 By Pass 123, 864-885-0456 107 Applewood Center Place, 864-888-0109

Grand Buffet

364 Market St, 864-886-0688

Mullen’s Irish Pub and Grub

Paesano’s Italian Restaurant Vangeli’s Italian Restaurant

Hachi Express Japanese Grille

119 Ram Cat Alley, 864-973-1492 Mediterranean & Southern Fusion

Rainbow Garden

 Mexican

Yoshi Japanese Restaurant

12020 N Radio Station Road, 864-873-9477 Tex-Mex Restaurant

100 Oconee Square Dr, 864-885-2221

1085 Old Clemson Hwy #5, 864-654-6868 1510 Blue Ridge Blvd, 864-888-5088

 BBQ

Burrito Shack

California’s Mexican Grill & Bar 215 Oconee Square Drive, 864-973-8897

3 Amigos

 Pizza

124 East Main Street, 864-916-0692

CC Fudge & More

314 East Main Street, 864-638-3020 Sandwiches, Fudge, Ice Cream, Desserts

Sweet Retreat

510 E Halfway Branch Rd, 864-885-0887 Hot Dogs, Ice Cream

WEST UNION  Asian

Black’s Smokehouse

El Alazan Mexican Restaurant

New China

1528 Blue Ridge Blvd, 864-280-2577

111 Rochester Hwy, 864-985-0355

144 Scenic Plaza Dr, 864-718-8882

Heavenly Hogs BBQ,

El Potrillo

 Mexican

12078 Wells Hwy, 864-710-4394

1018 By Pass 123, 864-973-8935

Little Pigs BBQ,

Los Amigos

261 Market St, 864-885-1133

 Sandwiches  Desserts Hochstetler’s Country Store 1470 S Walnut St, 864-882-3040

Puerto Nuevo

201 Scenic Plaza Dr, 863-638-0096

224 Hitec Rd, 864-885-0237

Taco Riendo

115 Bountyland Rd, 864-882-0790

 Pizza

WESTMINSTER  American

Eva’s Family Restaurant 807 E Main St, 864-647-7811

Blue Marble Deli & City Market

Marco’s Pizza

286 Market St. Cash only.

1026 US-123 E, 864-873-9077

N the Midst Ice Cream

Old Towne Pizza Buffet

Little Japan

1109A Jennings Ave, 864-973-8777

273 Market St, 864-882-4111

102 E Main Street, 864-613-2155

Ye Olde Sandwich Shoppe

Joe’s New York Pizza

 BBQ

124 North Townville St, 864-882-3006 Plus Ice Cream, Dessert

 Diner  Meat & 3

685 By Pass 123 #D, 864-888-0009

Peppinos Pizza

12020 N Radio Station Rd, 864-888-8776

400 S Fairplay St, 863-882-7665

WALHALLA

Dienner’s Kitchen

 American

305 By Pass 123, 864-280-9260 Buffet

Dakota Grill

Seneca Family Restaurant

 Asian

Time Drive In Restaurant 611 E North 1st St, 864-882-3827

2911 Highlands Hwy, 864-718-0553

Lucky Strike

513 E Main St, 864-647-6400

Waters Restaurant

1001 E Main St, 864-647-9999 1109 E Main St, 864-647-6947

 Cafeteria  Diner

 Mexican

3708 Blue Ridge Blvd, 864-718-8311

903 E Main St, 864-647-2147

Hector’s Place

Visit Oconee SC

713 E Main St, 864-647-0011

Yousef’s Kitchen

Baker’s Dogs

275 Market St, 864-885-9811

 Diner • Meat & 3

608 E Main St, 864-638-7080

 Hotdogs

Skins Hotdogs

70 Brasstown Rd, 864-647-2458

Hachisu Japanese Grill

The Kountry Kupboard

101 Applewood Center Pl, 864-882-7959

Brasstown Creek BBQ

Beef & Rib Family Restaurant

Betty’s Hungry House Café

515 By-Pass 123, 864-886-9599

 Asian

Puerto Nuevo

115 East Main Street, 864-638-0700

The Steak House Cafeteria 316 E Main St, 864-638-3311

Visitors Guide • 75

Located at Oconee Nuclear Station in Seneca, S.C., the center opened in July 1969, when Oconee Nuclear Station was under construction. The World of Energy is the longest continually operating nuclear visitors center on the planet. Whether you are looking to fill an hour or spend an entire afternoon, the World of Energy engages you with informative exhibits and displays. Begin with a tour of our new educational exhibits inside and outside. Pack a picnic and enjoy nature on the grounds. The Story of Energy offers fun and interactive ways to learn about electricity. Visitors of all ages will discover how energy is made from water and uranium, as well as wind and solar. The self-guided tour lets you explore at your own pace, but plan to spend at least 30 minutes viewing our exhibits. We are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

7812 Rochester Highway, Seneca, SC 29672 864.873.4600 duke-energy.com/worldofenergy

CELEBRATE

Annual Events in Oconee County

■ MARCH Run For The Green Downtown Seneca Join Seneca for the Half-Marathon and 5k race for the Green March 17, 2018. Be sure to wear your green for a pre-race St. Patty’s Party! Early registration guarantees a t-shirt. Visit www.seneca.sc.us for details closer to the event.

■ 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. Jazz on the Alley Ram Cat Alley, Seneca April 5th 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. Visit Oconee SC

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 7-8, 2018 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. crownofthecarolinas.org Issaqueena’s Last Ride St. Johns Lutheran Church, Walhalla Held April 21,2018 is a challenging, mountain ride through the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and Foothills of South Carolina. 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 PiedVisitors Guide • 77

mont. All routes feature scenic rural roads with little traffic. Visit www.ilrsc.com for details. Blue Ridge Fest 734 W. Main Street, Pickens, SC May 4, 2018. 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 ■ MAY Mountains to Main Street Half Triathlon May 19, 2018. Imagine a swim in the ultrapure 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. mountainstomainstreet.org

78 • Visitors Guide

Rally in the Valley May 19, 2018. Join Oconee Forever for the 7th Annual Rally In The Valley bicycle event for Lake Jemiki in Walhalla. Riders can choose between a 30 or 60 mile ride through the foothills and valleys of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Plus, you’ll enjoy live music, local craft beer and locally crafted food. Event only tickets will also be available for non-riders. oconeeforever.org Seneca Fest Downtown Seneca and Gignilliat Field The City of Seneca will host Seneca Fest starting Thursday in downtown Seneca with Jazz On The Alley. Friday and Saturday enjoy live music and food at Gignilliat Park. For more information visit www.seneca.sc.us or call 864-723-3910. Long Creek Music Festival 1010 Blaylock Place, Long Creek May 25-27, 2018. Join us for the Annual Long Creek Music Festival hosted at the beautiful Chattooga River Resort and Campground on Memorial Day Weekend. 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

#visitoconeesc

www.VisitOconeeSC.com

■ JUNE 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. 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 July 3, 2018 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 Gignilliat Field, Seneca July 4, 2018 enjoy live music with Funk Factory starting at 6pm and Stone Echo starting at 8pm. Fireworks start at 9:30pm. Visit www. seneca.sc.us for more details. July 4th Celebration Salem July 4, 2018 from 7pm-9:30pm 7pm – 9:30pm. Fireworks at 9:30pm. Visit salemsc.us for more details. 59th Annual Hillbilly Days 120 Verner Mill Road in Mountain Rest July 4, 2018 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 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. Visit Oconee SC

Visitors Guide • 79

■ OCTOBER Farm to Table Dinner and Tour Chattooga Belle Farm, Long Creek Ocotber 7, 2018. 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 ■ SEPTEMBER Labor Day Brew & Que September 3, 2018. Brought to you by The Journal and the City of Seneca. Craft Beer tasting, Barbecue cook-off and live music. Watch upstatetoday.com for details. South Carolina 57th Annual Apple Festival Downtown Westminster 864.647.7223 September 4-8, 2018, 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 America’s Boating Course Oconee Memorial Hospital, Seneca www.gclsaps.com September 2018. Designed to advance public boating knowledge and skills for safer boating in the Upstate. $30 for manual and supplies. For information call 864-972-2434 or email ozbrn@bellsouth.net. S.C. Foothills Heritage Fair Hwy. 123 Between Seneca and Westminster September 25-29, 2018. 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 80 • Visitors Guide

Oktoberfest, Main Street and Sertoma Field, Walhalla, SC October 20-22, 2018. This weekend-long event is now in its 39th 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. Boo on Main Downtown Westminster October 31, 2018. 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 trickor-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. 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! Starting at 5pm. Visit www.seneca.sc.us for additional details.

#visitoconeesc

www.VisitOconeeSC.com

2018

Featuring

THE SPINNERS “Working My Way Back To You”

“Rubberband Man” “I’ll Be Around”

“Games People Play”

“It’s A Shame” “I’ll Always Love You”

“I’m Coming Home”

Also

Jim Quick & Coastline And

MAGIC

An Upstate Premier Variety Band

May 4, 2018 5:30 pm -10 pm at Blue Ridge Electric Co-op, 734 W. Main St., Pickens, SC ADULTS $25 • CHILDREN $15 Discounted tickets purchased in advanced: Adults $20 • Children $12 Come in a classic car (1989 or older) and $30 admits a carload of up to four! Line-up begins at 2 pm. Gates open at 3 pm for classic cars. Dash plaques are available for the ﬁrst 400 cars. Proceeds beneﬁt Upstate charitable organizations. For more information, call 800-240-3400 or visit online at blueridgefest.com. “Largest Cruise-In in the Upstate”

Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum

Architecture & Exhibit speaking in “One Historic Voice”

Honoring the Past Elevating the Future

Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum (BLSCM)

Downtown Historic District — Seneca’s premier cultural exhibit museum focuses on the rich local African American history and culture of Oconee County. The museum incorporates technology and tradition to create a meaningful and educational experience for all ages. BLSCM rotates over 85% of its exhibit space 2-3 times annually. It also features “Bertha’s Kitchen” with its orginal bead board walls and ceiling, fireplace and mantels, and flooring to create an interpretive look into the life of Mrs. Bertha Lee Strickland. Call: 864-710-9994, Email: blscmuseum@gmail.com

Open Thursday - Saturday 11:00 AM- 4:00 PM Some holidays excluded. Admission is free. 208 West South 2nd Street, Seneca www.blscm.org facebook.com/culturalmuseum 82 • Visitors Guide

A 1909 American Queen Anne style bungalow, carriage house and “two seater outhouse.” Former residence of Dr. W. J. & Lilian Mason Lunney Architect: Charles Christian Hook The arts & crafts interior features: • Art glass windows • Original chandeliers • Long leaf pine woodwork and quarter sawn oak mantel • English fireplace tiles • Flat panel wainscot with burlap inserts • 1866 Chickering & Sons “cocked hat” parlor grand piano

Open to the Public Thursday through Sunday 1:00 - 5:00PM Other Hours by Appointment • Free Admission 211 West South 1st Street, Seneca, SC 29678 Visit www.LunneyHouseMuseum.org info@LunneyHouseMuseum.org

864.882.4811

#visitoconeesc