Mountain Lakes Oconee SC Visitors Guide

FREE MAP! with waterfalls

E VISITORS GUID

S E K A L N I A MOUNT ROLINA A C H T U O S , Y T OCONEE COUN

Adventure Antiques Camping Canopy Zip Lining Disc Golf Fishing Golf Heritage Hiking Lakes Mountains Rivers Waterfalls White Water Rafting

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Oconee County - South Carolina

www.SCMountainLakes.com The Journal Toll Free 877.MT.LAKES

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 1

Creating Community through People, Parks and Programs Stay & Play In Our Parks!

We offer over 200 campsites in our three beautiful county parks.

Electricity and water at each site, friendly staff, clean restrooms, hiking trails, playgrounds, Lake Keowee and Chauga River access, tent only areas as well as large RV sites!

Chau Ram County Park • 28 Camping Sites • Primitive Camping Areas •4 Shelters, 1 Recreational Building • Waterfalls • Hiking Trails • Chauga River Access Closed Nov. 20 thru first weekend in March

High Falls County Park

South Cove County Park • 88 Camping Sites • 1 Shelters •1 Recreational Building • Boat Ramp • 4 Tennis Courts • Playground • Fishing Pier • Lake Keowee

• 100 Camping Sites • 2 Shelters, 1 Recreational Buildings • Boat Ramp • Fishing Pier • Miniature Golf • Playground • Softball Field • Volleyball • Basketball • Tennis • Lake Keowee Day Use & Lake Access Open Year-Round Camping closed Nov. 20 thru first weekend in March

All Areas Open Year-Round

Experience Oconee, SC www.ExperienceOconee.com

Sally and Perry Rogers have been “Sailing and Selling Lake Keowee area properties since 1977!” . . .You might say, “We know the local waters!”

We know that buying or selling real estate is one of the most crucial financial transactions of your life. It can be a confusing and sometimes difficult process, it pays to leave as little to chance as you can. But with the help of the right person at the helm, you can navigate unknown waters with ease. Contact one of our team members and let us find your port of call!

(864) 882-8144 • 1510 Blue Ridge Blvd. - Suite 205 • Seneca, SC 29672

www.PerryandSally.com

Lisa Griffin 979-5788 BuyKeowee.com

David Land II 710-9759 DavidLand Realty.com

Perry Rogers 280-9311 Sally Rogers 710-5906

Travis Farmer Lori Fiest 710-5088 882-8144 TravisFarmer. Administrative Point2Agent.com Assistant

Lakes Mountains parks rivers waterfalls Antiques and Mountain Crafts Bicycling Horseback Riding Boating Whitewater Rafting Camping Paddling Fishing Golfing Heritage Hiking Fall Foliage Home of the Chattooga National Wild & Scenic River, SC National Heritage Corridor, Scenic Highways and the Sumter National Forest.

Oconee County Parks, Recreation & Tourism Experience Our Three County Parks ...

Chau Ram, High Falls and South Cove

www.ExperienceOconee.com Located between Atlanta, GA and Greenville, SC Take I-85 to Exit 1 Oconee County, South Carolina 864.888.1488 4 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com www.SCMountainLakes.com

experience Oconee Land beside the water…

D

iscover the breathtaking lakes, mountains, rivers and waterfalls located in the Mountain Lakes Region of Oconee County, South Carolina. The pristine waters of lakes Jocassee, Keowee, Hartwell are some of the best in the Southeast, nestled under the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. 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. Over 150 waterfalls grace the escarpment of the Mountain Lakes Region.

Oconee County is in the northwestern-most 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 Mountain.

Today, outdoor recreation, adventure travel and family “together time” are hot buttons for tourists, and Oconee County offers the perfect setting for an affordable vacation for active families, with outdoor and nature activities for all ages, couples and retirees.

Boating, hiking, rafting, paddling, camping, biking, zip lines and antique shopping are plentiful here. Oconee County includes lakes Hartwell, Keowee, Jocassee and the Chattooga River. The Sumter National Forest and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains neighbor the mountains of North Carolina and Northeast Georgia, making it all within easy access from Oconee County.

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 5

visit Oconee county

5 Experience Oconee Free 8 Traveling to Oconee County Map 10 Group Tours Insert 12 Land Beside the Water 14 Lodging in Oconee County 18 Events, Meetings and Weddings in Oconee County 20 Dining in Oconee County 24 The Beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains: The Jocassee Gorges 30 Nature’s Cascade in the Golden Corner 37 The Sumter National Forest: Andrew Pickens Ranger District & Station 38 Camping 40 The Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway 44 Hit the Trails 49 Mountain Lakes 55 Fishing in Oconee County 58 Cities and Towns 62 Annual Festivals 65 History Comes to Life 69 Walhalla Walking Tour 71 Arts and Culture 73 Agricultural Tourism 74 Sports and Recreation 80 Horseback Riding 81 Events 87 Shopping 93 Tourism of Oconee County Information 94 Quick Facts of Oconee County

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Oconee County - South Carolina

The Journal

Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau Guide • © 2011 6 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

■ Resources

The Mountain Lakes Visitors Guide is a biannual publication published by the The Journal and the Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau in Oconee County, South Carolina.

Special thanks to ...

Cities of Seneca, Walhalla, Westminster Oconee County Parks, Recreation and Tourism

It’s purpose is to provide information to visitors and tourists about Oconee and the surrounding mountain lakes area. It is available free of charge at numerous locations in Oconee, Pickens and Anderson counties and at South Carolina Welcome Centers.

Oconee Heritage Center Pendleton District Commission South Carolina Department of Natural Resources South Carolina National Heritage Corridor

Any reproduction or duplication of this publication or any part thereof must be done with the publisher’s written permission. The publisher is not responsible for the claims made by the advertisers. Information current at the time of printing.

South Carolina State Parks South Carolina State Trails Progam U.S. Army Corps of Engineers U.S. Forest Service Greater Oconee County Chamber of Commerce

Visit us at www.SCMountainLakes.com.

Walhalla Chamber of Commerce Ken Sloan President/CEO Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau 105 W.S. Broad St. Walhalla, South Carolina 29691 877.Mt.Lakes 877.685.2537 Info@SCMountainLakes.com

Westminster Chamber of Commerce ■ Virtual Edition The Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau Visitors Guide online virtual edition provides you the latest in publication technology. Though you’ll still want the print version to hold and read at your leisure, this new interactive virtual feature allows you to share with friends online, interact with advertisers, authors, stories, download, and more…

Just visit www.SCMountainLakes.com and follow the links.

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

Sponsors

The Journal

www.SCMountainLakes.com Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 7

Traveling to Oconee County The Mountain Lakes region of Oconee County, South Carolina, is located in Upstate South Carolina, North of I-85, 45 miles (72 km) west of Greenville, SC and approximately 125 miles (201 km) east of Atlanta, GA. Oconee County is the westernmost county of South Carolina. Its county seat is Walhalla.

Other cities in the county include Seneca and Westminster. Towns include Salem and West Union. Other communities include Long Creek, Mountain Rest and Fair Play. South Carolina Highway 11, the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway, begins in Southern Oconee County at Interstate Highway 85 at the Georgia state line.

■ Airline Service Four airports service the Mountain Lakes region of Oconee County, South Carolina.

Driving directions from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: Exit the airport following the I-85 north to Greenville signs.

Continue on I-85 north through Atlanta, going 95.5 miles; Take Exit one as you enter South Carolina and follow the signage to SC Highway 11. Go 19.6 miles north to SC Highway 28 and exit to Walhalla.

Driving directions from GreenvilleSpartanburg International Airport: Exit the airport onto I-85 south toward Atlanta. Travel 37.2 miles and Take exit 19B to merge onto S Carolina 28 W/US-76 W/Clemson Blvd toward Clemson; travel 11.3 miles and turn onto SC 28 W/US-123 S/US-76 W/Tiger Blvd; go 9 miles and merge right onto SC 28; travel 6.2 miles to Walhalla.

Driving directions from Asheville Regional: Exit the airport following the signs to I-26 east; travel 13.3 miles and Take exit 54 to merge onto US-25 S toward US-176/N

Carolina 225/Greenville; travel 16.3 miles and turn left toward S Carolina 11 S/Cherokee Foothills Scenic Hwy; go west on SC Highway 11 for 48.1 miles and exit at Walhalla.

Driving directions from Charlotte International Airport: Following the signage at the airport to I-85 south. Travel 120 miles south and Take exit 19B to merge onto S Carolina 28 W/US-76 W/Clemson Blvd toward Clemson; travel 11.3 miles and turn onto SC 28 W/US-123 S/US-76 W/Tiger Blvd; go 9 miles and merge right onto SC 28; travel 6.2 miles to Walhalla.

You can also ride Amtrak to the Upstate, arriving and departing in Clemson. Go to http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ ContentServer/Page/1237405732511/12374 05732511 for more information.

A shuttle to and from Oconee County accommodations can be arranged by calling 877-MT-LAKES or 877-685-2537.

The Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau will assist with travel recommendations.

■ climate The Mountain Lakes region of Oconee County, South Carolina has four seasons average daytime temperature is a mild 70°F (21°C).

Annual Average Temperatures Maximum: 72.4° F Mean: 58.8° F Minimum: 45.1° F Annual Average Rainfall: 60.65 Inches Highest Daily Snowfall: 15 Inches (Jan. 7, 1988)

http://www.facebook.com/MountainLakesCVB http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_1NLOhLp8&feature=player_embedded 8 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Experience Oconee

. Play .. k r o W . .. e v i L nty in Oconee Cou

Land Beside the Water

A diverse, growing, safe, vibrant community guided by rural traditions and shaped by natural beauty where employment, education and recreation offer a rich quality of life for all generations, both today and tomorrow.

Great Housing Options • Retirement Communities Low Taxes • Great Schools • Job Growth Strong Retail Businesses and Restaurants Four Lakes • Wild & Scenic Tog River • 29 Waterfalls 90,000 Acres of Sumter National Forest

www.oconeeSC.com

Group Tours Nestled under the Blue Ridge Mountains, Oconee County offers the perfect setting to create memorable experiences. From magnificent mountain views and pristine waters, tranquil wilderness and quaint downtowns, Oconee County has an abundant selection of group touring opportunities, only a couple of which are presented here: ■ Cherokee Heritage in the Lower Towns ➥ Two days/one night • Arrive in Oconee County and check in at the Best Western in Seneca. A hot and nutritious breakfast is included in hotel reservations and free Wi-Fi. • First stop on our tour is Oconee Station State Park to learn about the history that this place has with the Cherokee as a Trading Post for furs and hides.

• Ready to learn a unique trade? Check out Kudzu Kabin Designs with Nancy Basket.

Nancy will show us how to dry Kudzu, and blend and dye paper to make her unique Kudzu Cards. She will also tell us wonderful Native American stories.

• Hungry for lunch? Dine at The Steak House in Walhalla where they don’t serve steak!

This great meat and three restaurants has something for everyone • After lunch enjoy a Lake Tour on Lake Jocassee, the clearest, deepest and coldest lake in South Carolina. Learn about Jocassee Town, trail trees, and more history of the Cherokee.

• After the boat ride, see the largest Waterfall 10 • Visitors Guide

East of the Mississippi River; Whitewater Falls.

Be sure to bring your camera for this must see picture-taking waterfall! Take in the spectacular views from Wigginton Overlook next to Whitewater Falls for a look down on Lake Jocassee! A must see view as well as picture taking opportunity!

• Getting hungry for dinner? Enjoy dinner at Liberty Lodge Bed and Breakfast in Walhalla for a unique and great experience http://www. walhallalibertylodge.com • Time to rest up for the next day; sleep tight!

Day 2 • The first stop is at the Oconee Heritage Center, a great museum visit with 3 canoes found in local rivers during the 2007-2008 droughts.

• Take in the new Cherokee Heritage Museum of South Carolina next to the Oconee Heritage Center and see the artifact’s that have come from the Lower Cherokee Towns • Next up is Patriot’s Hall Museum, a must stop for Veteran groups. See firsthand the players of all wars that have affected the United States and South Carolina.

• A short drive up the mountain is Issaqueena Falls; where the legend of Indian Maiden Issaqueena jumping off the Waterfalls to warn her settler lover of an Indian attack comes to life.

• Hungry for lunch? We have been very busy today so let’s relax while we drive down the mountain to Lake Keowee where we will have lunch at The Tiki Hut Bar and Grill • After lunch let’s take a boat tour on Lake www.SCMountainLakes.com

Keowee to learn all about the Cherokee of Keowee Towne and what is under the lake!

• Next up is the World of Energy at Duke Power’s Nuclear Station. This great site will teach us about nuclear power, wind, solar, hydro, and coal!

• It has been a busy day and before dinner we are going back to the Hotel for a bit of rest and relaxation!

• Ready for dinner? Enjoy dinner at JPeters in Seneca! http://www.jpetersgrill.net/ or dine on your own and it can be included in the price of the tour.

• Take in a show at one of the many community playhouses in the area. The Walhalla Civic Auditorium, the Oconee Community Theatre, The Brooks Center for Performing Arts or the Clemson Little Theatre.

■ Land Beside the Water ➥ Single day tour • Begin your day in Oconee County at the World of Energy where you will learn all about coal, hydro power, solar and wind, and nuclear energy as well as how Lake Jocassee and Lake Keowee were created.

• There are Quilts on the side of many building in Oconee County and we are the home of the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail. On our travels today we will talk about the Quilt Trail and point out several quilts. Enjoy your time in the area learning about the Cherokee heritage, German culture and lake history.

• Next stop is the Blue Ridge Arts Center in Seneca. This unique gallery used to be an Episcopal Church. View the many different forms of art in the gallery.

• Hungry for lunch? Circa 1930 is a great place to get fresh homemade soups and sandwiches.

• Take a trip to downtown Seneca to shop at the local antique stores, art galleries, and many unique stores on Ram Cat Alley and take home a box of homemade fudge from the Ye Olde Sandwich Shop!

• The best has been saved for last! Take boat tour on Lake Keowee! This beautiful lake sits right in the heart of Seneca and is surrounded by the most beautiful houses! While on the boat learn about what is under the lake, how it was built and more Cherokee history.

• Depart for Home

For all of your planning needs, call 803.360.4363 or email: Whitney@SCMountainLakes.com

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Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 11

Experience Oconee

Land beside the water…

Oconee County is a Cherokee word meaning “land beside the water.”

The Andrew Pickens Ranger District of the Sumter National Forest is located in Oconee County on more than 85,000 acres. The district has a wide variety of programs and works across all functional areas including wildlife, fisheries, fire, timber, recreation, special uses and lands. The management on the district emphasizes habitat restoration and enhancement for a diverse range of wildlife and plant species with emphasis on rare, threatened, endangered and sensitive species. Popular attractions of the district include hunting, fishing, hiking, fall color sightseeing, camping, horseback riding, and white-water floating on the wild and scenic Chattooga River.

The Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors’ Bureau provides information and maps to the waterfalls, lakes and rivers and can also provide guidance on white water rafting, waterfall tours, lake tours, boat rentals, fall foliage tours, fishing, hiking, golfing, canopy tours and lodging at mountain cabins, lake front rental homes or lakeside campgrounds. Oconee County is a Cherokee word meaning “Land beside the Water.” With rivers, lakes and waterfalls, Oconee County is almost entirely surrounded by waters and mountains – the outdoor enthusiasts’ paradise! Whatever season, scenic splendor and outdoor adventure will be waiting – all with a touch of southern hospitality! Come visit Oconee County and experience the lakes, waterfalls, rivers and mountains for yourself.

12 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

For 364 Days A Year We Bring You Power & Security.

The Other Day We Party.

And You’re Invited!

Join us for the 15th annual Blue Ridge Fest on Friday, May 11, 2012. Past performers include Chubby Checker, The Temptations, Jerry Butler, Bill Pinkney's Original Drifters, The Tams, Little Anthony and the Imperials, The Platters, Charlie Brown and the Coasters, The Impressions, Jim Quick and Coastline, Legends of Beach, The Rickey Godfrey Band, and Chairmen of the Board. The evening's entertainment will also include a car show with more than 500 classic automobiles.

Blue Ridge Fest has given more than one million dollars to local charities over the past 14 years. Check our website for more details about the lineup for 2012.

Events take place at Blue Ridge Electric, 734 West Main St., Pickens, SC www.blueridgefest.com • 800/240-3400

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 13

Whether you are visiting the Mountain Lakes region of Oconee County, SC, for pleasure or business, by yourself or with your family or friends, we have the lodging you are looking for: from luxury lake front vacation rental homes to the charming southern comfort of plantation style bed & breakfasts to primitive camp sites, RV sites or rustic camp sites or a hotel near town. Whatever your desire, we have something for you and you will always be welcomed with a touch of southern hospitality! We look forward to your visit.

LODGING

in Oconee County

➥ Hotels Best Western 511 US Hwy. 123-By Pass, Seneca, SC 29678 864.886.9646, 800.WESTERN www.bestwestern.com

falls, numerous state parks and historical sites, antique shopping opportunities, dozens of hiking trails and Clemson University. Choose from four spacious c.1890 Victorian farmhouse bedrooms with private baths or one of two private cottages.

Days Inn 11015 N. Radio Station Rd., Seneca, SC 29678 US Hwy. 123 & Route 28 864.885.0710, 800.329.7466 www.daysinn.com

Savannah’s House B&B 222 Kathmaette Dr., Seneca, SC 29678 864.886.9508, www.savannahshouse.com

Jameson Inn 226 Hi-Tech Rd., Seneca, SC 29678 864.888.8300, 800.JAMESON www.jamesoninns.com Please remember to ask for the “CVB DISCOUNT” at the Seneca hotels for a substantial nightly savings!

Lowry House Inn 206 Fairplay St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.888.0122, 888.290.9686 www.lowryhouseinn.com Walhalla Liberty Lodge 105 Liberty Ln., Walhalla, SC 29692 864.638.8239, www.walhallalibertylodge.com

Relax Inn 109 E. Windsor St., Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.2045 ➥ Bed and Breakfast Sunrise Farm B&B 325 Sunrise Dr., Salem, SC 29676 864.944.0121, 888.991.0121 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 water14 • Visitors Guide

Devils Fork State Park Cabin

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Oconee Belle Bed and Breakfast 302 South College St., Walhalla, SC 29691 (864)638-2238, www.oconeebelleinn.com

Jocassee Lodge Lake Jocassee, Salem, SC 29676 864.517.3601, www.jocasseelodge.com

Magnolia Manor 207 Westminster Hwy., Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.8559, www.magnoliamanorbb.com

Keowee Key Rentals 1390 Stamp Creek Rd., Salem, SC 29676 864.944.2400, 800.537.5253 www.1stchoicerealty-sc. com/uploads/Rental_Property/Default.asp

Fieldstone Farm Inn B&B 640 Fieldstone Farm Rd., Westminster, SC 864.882.5651, 877.835.2535 www.fieldstonefarminn.com

Lake Jocassee Vacation Rental By Owner Salem, SC 256.566.1342, www.vrbo. com/83911

➥ Vacation Rental Homes Bob Hill Realty 528D ByPass 123, Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.0855, www.bobhillrealty.com

Lake Jocassee Vacation Rental By Owner Salem, SC 864.580.1202, www.vrbo.com/181302

Carolina Home Real Estate 108 Nimmons Cir., Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.6670, www.carolinahomesc.com

Maple Crest Lake Jocassee 694 Jocassee Lake Rd., Salem, SC 29676 843.214.1470, www.jocassee-vacation.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.”

BED

S unrise Farm

&

BREAKFAST

SunriseFarmBB.Com

“Your Country Home Away From Home”

Top Gun Realty 864.784.9977 www.homeaway.com/Vacation-rentals/ South-Carolina-vacation-rentals.htm Bear Pond Cabin 307 Hyatt Dr., Salem, SC 29676 864.877.7558, www.scvacationcabin.com Carolina Mountain Lakes Lake Cherokee, Tamassee, SC 704.467.5538, www.carolinamountainlakes. com Devils Fork State Park 161 Holcombe Cir., Salem, SC 29676 866.345.PARK, 864.944.2639 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder Experience Oconee, South Carolina

• Traditional B&B rooms w/private baths

• Near Lakes • Pet Friendly

• Private cozy cottages

• Children Welcome

325 Sunrise Drive Salem, SC 29676

864.944.0121

www.SunriseFarmBB.com Visitors Guide • 15

Robinson Lake Front Lodge at Jocassee Salem, SC 864.616.1273, www.jocasseelakehouse.com Vacation Rental By Owner Lake Keowee, Seneca, SC 770.717.1516, www.vrbo.com/96259 Villas of Foxwood Hills 10 Kinston Manor Dr., Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.9533, 800.477.3155 www.foxwoodhillsresort.com ➥ Cabins Carolina Landing Cabins 120 Carolina Landing Dr., Fair Play, SC 29643 864.972.2499, www.inspire21.com/landing. html Lake Hartwell State Park 19138-A South Hwy. 11, Fair Play, SC 29643 864.972.3352 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder The Cabins P. O. Box 219, Fair Play, SC 29643 864.972.1508, www.valuecom.com/lakecabins Chattooga Ridge Cottages Chattooga Rafting Center Off US 76 on Academy Rd. Long Creek, SC 29658 800.451.9972 www.wildwaterrafting.com/cabins.php www.SCMountainLakes.com Mountain Rest Cabins & Campground 175 Homeland Dr., Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.718.0333, www.mountainrestcamping.com Oconee State Park 624 State Park Rd., Mountain Rest, SC 29664 866.345.PARK, 864.638.5353 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder/statepark/750.aspx ➥ Camp Sites and RV Sites Carolina Landing Cabins 120 Carolina Landing Dr., Fair Play, SC 29643 864.972.2499, www.inspire21.com/landing. html Lake Hartwell State Park 19138-A South Hwy 11, Fair Play, SC 29643 864.972.3352 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder 16 • Visitors Guide

Oconee State Park Cabin

Mountain Rest Camp Sites and Campground 175 Homeland Dr., Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.718.0333, www.mountainrestcamping.com Devils Fork State Park 161 Holcombe Cir., Salem, SC 29676 866.345.PARK, 864.944.2639 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder Oconee State Park 624 State Park Rd., Mountain Rest, SC 29664 866.345.PARK, 864.638.5353 www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder/statepark/750.aspx High Falls County Park 671 High Falls Rd., Seneca, SC 29672 864.882.8234, www.experienceoconee.com Oconee Point 20 Oconee Point Rd., Seneca, SC 29678 864.893.0678, www.reserveamerica.com South Cove County Park 1099 South Cove Rd., Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.5250, www.experienceoconee.com Coneross Park 699 Coneross Park Rd., Townville, SC 29689 888.893.0678 Crooked Creek RV Park 777 Arvee Ln., West Union, SC 29696 864.882.5040, www.crookedcreekrvpark.com Chau Ram County Park 1220 Chau Ram Park Rd. Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.9286, www.experienceoconee.com www.SCMountainLakes.com

the Clemson University Conference Center and inn is the perfect place for experiencing Clemson and the surrounding area. Adjacent to the University campus, its garden-like setting and lakeside location make it ideal for your next visit.

With seasons by the lake restaurant, Joe’s place Bar and the championship Walker golf Course, there’s no better place for your next Clemson experience.

Hosting tHe Clemson experienCe 230 Madren Center Drive • Clemson University • Clemson, SC 888-654-9020 • cuconferencecenter.com

Weddings & family gatherings in Oconee County

There are a number of venues in Oconee County that specialize in weddings and family gatherings. They not only offer some of the most beautiful settings for your special occasion but they specialize in unmatched southern hospitality! Your dreams can come true and wonderful memories await you right here!

Whether you are looking for an outdoor or interior setting, the natural beauty of the Upstate provides a full array of opportunities for groups, large or small. And, after the vows are spoken or the reminiscing is done, Oconee provides the perfect place for a honeymoon or extended family vacation.

World-class white water rafting, zip lines, over 300 waterfalls, pristine lakes, the Blue Ridge Mountains and so much more are at your fingertips. Hit the links on our challenging mountain golf courses. Take your bride or your entire family on sightseeing tours of the beautiful waterfalls or a guided boat tour on the pristine waters of Lake Jocassee.

The Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau can help make arrangements and save you time and money. We can help you with site selection and find the best venue to fit your occasion.

The Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau can help you: • Find the right facilities for your event

• Make hotel reservations • Plan group outings for your attendees • Schedule catering and make dining reservations

Rendezvous

by All J’s

www.rendezvousbyalljs.com

• Corporate Meetings • Cocktail Parties • Private Dining • Wedding Rehearsals • Bridal & Baby Showers • Themed Birthday Parties For The Young And Young At Heart • And much more!

All J’s Catering • • • • • •

High end Galas Weddings And Rehearsals Corporate Meetings Private Chef services Cooking Parties off site Catering (up to 1000) DHEC Approved

www.alljscateringsc.com

e

Full servic

864-985-8020 • Dogwood Plaza • Seneca, SC

• Plan your itinerary 18 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

South Cove Park

For more information, please contact the Mountain Lakes CVB at 864.380.3976 or email at info@scmountainlakes.com. Listed below are a few of the beautiful locations available for your event:

(Map - Parks 13)

Seneca, SC 29672 864.882.5250 Oconee State Park (Map - Parks 11)

624 State Park Rd. Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.638.5353

Magnolia Manor (Map - Lodging 7)

207 Westminster Hwy. Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.8559 www.magnoliamanorbb.com

Devils Fork State Park (Map - Parks 5)

161 Holcombe Cir. Salem, SC 29676 864.944.2639

Chattooga Belle Farm (Map - POI 6) 454 Damascus Church Rd. Long Creek, SC 29658 864.647.9768 www.chattoogabellefarm.com The Vault (Map - POU 25) 215 N Townville St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.888.3737 www.thevaulteventcenter.com Historic Ballenger House (Map - POI 11) 212 E.S.Third St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.7162, 864.654.4043 www.historicballengerhouse.com

Diakonia Retreat Center 455 Quail Ridge Rd. Salem, SC 29676 864.944.6788 Lighthouse Restaurant & Event Center Opening soon 1290 Doug Hollow Rd., Seneca 864-888-8483

Calyx Farm 6181 North Highway 11 Walhalla, S.C. 29691 864.903.2840 janet@calyxfarms.com Walhalla Civic Auditorium (Map - POI 26) 101 E. North Broad St., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.916.0130 www.walhallacivic.com Shaver Recreation Complex (Map - POI 22) 698 W. S. 4th St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.885.2709 Shaver www.seneca.sc.us Gignilliat Community Center (Map - POI 9) 621 N. Townville St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.885.1886 www.seneca.sc.us

3100

SQUARE FOOT EVENT BARN

180

DEGREE VIEWS OF THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS

138

ACRES OF U-PICK FIELDS, ORCHARDS & VINEYARDS

1

Moment of a Lifetime

Chau Ram Park (Map - Parks 2) Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.9286 High Falls Park (Map - Parks 6) 671 High Falls Rd. Seneca, SC 29672 864.882.8234 Experience Oconee, South Carolina

www.ChattoogaBelleFarm.com 454 Damascus Church Road, Long Creek, SC 29658 864.647.9768

Visitors Guide • 19

DINing

Southern cuisine is part of our charm

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 to fresh water trout to sausage gravy over biscuits and the ultimate southern favorite ... GRITS! You’re sure to discover and savor one incredible South Carolina dining experience after another, from some of the best BBQ to be found anywhere to Charleston’s world-famous she crab 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 Southern cuisine, and each has its own flavor and style, most locally owned and operated.

Several restaurants offer a cozy atmosphere in which to enjoy an ever-changing seasonal menu and still others are offering fine dining, using products from local and regional farms and artisan producers right here in Oconee County.

20 • Visitors Guide

Here are a few dining options you might want to consider: Fatz Copper River Grill J. Peters Puerto Nuevo Athens Applebee’s Los Amigos Lucky Strike Eva’s Blue Marble Bakery Seasons For more listings of area resturants go to: www.scmountainlakes.com www.SCMountainLakes.com

Everyone knows that if you want to enjoy the best food a community has to offer, you need to ask the locals. Well, we’ve done the work for you. Here are some great places for eating that you won’t find across from the mall. Most of them are tucked away on side roads, side streets and, occasionally, closer to a creek than any human life form. One thing is certain, if you find them, you will enjoy them!

Off the Eatin’ Path Brass Town Creek Gathering Place 70 Brasstown Rd., Westminster, SC 864.647.2458; Directions: Highway 76 at S37-46 A small family run BBQ local secret, tucked into the upper most corner of the South Carolina old moonshine country, but the BBQ is amazing, smoked in a single batch each day like it was cooked for the family. Also don’t miss the homemade pecan pie. Only open Fridays and Saturdays.

Tiki Hut 156 Keowee Marina Dr., Seneca, SC 864.882.0800; Directions: Take Old Salem Road off the 123 By-Pass in Seneca www.clubtikihut.com This great place to relax and have fun ... for all ages. Enjoy the outdoor atmosphere with beautiful Lake Keowee sunsets. One of the few spots on the lake to dine.

Humble Pie 14239 Long Creek Hwy., Long Creek, SC 864.647.9098 Directions: Highway 76 at SC 37-538 In 2004 two hungry river paddlers converted a building next door to the Chattooga Whitewater shop into Humble Pie pizza. Today as a successfully revived business, Chattooga Whitewater and Humble Pie remains the heart and soul of the Chattooga River.

ou the Best Of Bringing Y

Olde World Quality

Fresh, Full Service Deli Featuring Troyer Meats & Cheese A Wide Variety Of Bulk Foods & Amish Country Products

Hochstetler’s Country Store

Mon-Fri. 9 am - 6 pm • Sat. 9 am - 5 pm 1470 S. Walnut St. Seneca, SC • 864-882-3040 At Wells Hwy & Walnut St. Intersection Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 21

Lighthouse Restaurant & Events Center 1290 Doug Hollow Rd., Seneca, SC 29672 864.985.9523; Directions: Take SC Highway 130 to Doug Hollow Road www.lighthousekeowee.com Finally, an upscale restaurant on Lake Keowee accessible by both road and lake. Opening in May, there will be a 10-slip boat dock and both casual and fining dining options.

Liberty Lodge 105 Liberty Lane, Walhalla, SC 864.638.8239 (Call for hours); Directions: Highway 28 through Walhalla ; left onto S. Maple Street; 2 miles on the right. www.walhallalibertylodge.com Historic country inn located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Features history, amenities, house tour, reservations, packages and dining.

Marthas Café 101 W Main St., Walhalla, SC 864.638.0770 Great people, great food — especially breakfast — in the heart of historic Walhalla, SC. Spotted Pig 15491 S. Highway 11, Fair Play, SC 864.972.3065; Directions: SC Highway 11 three miles west of I-85. www.spottedpig.com If you agree with the Brown Shoe Gourmet that truly great barbecue can only be found in places where you wouldn’t go at night, then the Spotted Pig is very good. Known for their brisket, the ribs and pulled pork are also excellent: moist, good smoke flavor, and flavored with your choice of sauces. Finish up with a mile-high piece of pie.

Ye Olde Sandwich Shoppe 124 North Townville St., Seneca, SC 864.882.3006 www.yeoldesandwichshoppe.com Sink your teeth into savory deli sandwiches, fresh salads, and ice cream treats at one of the places locals rave about.

Liberty Lodge

Circa 1930 112 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca, SC 864.888.1933 Located on historic Ram Cat alley in downtown Seneca, this charming restaurant is a must do for lunch. The food is wonderful, it has excellent service staff and the ambiance is eclectic and charming. A great place to get fresh homemade soups and sandwiches.

Spot on the Alley 122 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca, SC 864.985.0102 www.thespot.us Whether you’re a local, a Yankee or a halfback...or some mix thereof, you’ll feel at home at The Spot with pleasant, (occasionally) stimulating conversation, cold drinks, entertainment, and great food, including Best Burger in the Upstate as voted by the locals. (Who else you going to believe!)

22 • Visitors Guide

Dakota Grill 2911 Highlands Hwy., Walhalla, SC 864.718.0553; Directions: At the base of the mountain on SC Highway 28 www.dakotagrillsc.com From top quality grilled steaks to low-country style crabcakes and combinations such as filetmignon and shrimp this hideaway just north of Walhalla has a complete menu that local folks get excited about. Every entree comes with a 15-item salad bar and baked artisan breads.

You better be hungry.

Ram Cat Alley

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Sisters Restaurant Sweet Treats 510 E. Halfway Branch 281 Stamp Creek Rd. (SC Hwy. 130) Rd. Salem, SC Walhalla, SC 864.944.8100 864.885.0887 Talk about quiet little Craving sweets? This is the place to be! Create secrets, here’s one of the best kept. Sisters your own treat from an serves breakfast and outstanding list of ingrelunch 5 days a week, dients mixed together 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. All and served on a freshly Sweet Treats menu items are availmade sugar cone. Also a great place to get hand made truffles and able for take out. Beer and wine available during lunch service. assorted other goodies.

Mountain View Steak & Seafood 2383 Pickens Hw.y, West Union, SC 29696 864.638.5790 If you want candles and mood lighting, move on down the road, but if you want good home cooking, especially some tasty shrimp and grits, this is your kind of place. Great family restaurant with friendly waitresses and plenty of good food. The only complaint the locals have is that the place isn’t open enough.

Betty’s Hungry House 400 S Fairplay St., Seneca, SC 864.882.7665 You will have to get off Main and find this local favorite on one of Seneca’s side streets, but it will be worth the trip. This is food your Momma made. Tastes great and costs a little.

Down to earth atmosphere, but don’t bring a charge card … they don’t take ‘em.

Humble Pie • Pizza • Salad • Sandwiches • Pasta 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.

Hand tossed dough made daily!

Friendly staff and comfortable surroundings.

Ultimate Action Sports LLC Salem, SC 29676

Just 2.2 miles from Bull’s Sluice on Hwy 76 in SC

For reservations call (864) 944-1887

Call for take away orders and for seasonal hours at

www.KeoweeWaterSports.com

(864) 647 9098

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 23

The Beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains The Jocassee Gorges

I

n the uppermost reaches of South Carolina, the clear waters of Lake Jocassee splash against the base of the Blue Ridge Escarpment, a “Blue Wall” of hills that represents the sharp transition between the Carolina Mountains and Piedmont. Around Lake Jocassee are a series of steep gorges carrying surging mountain rivers, waterfalls and streams down to the Piedmont. Together, these watery pathways are known as the Jocassee Gorges.

Streams with names such Saluda, Eastatoe, Laurel Ford, Toxaway, Horsepasture, Bearcamp, Thompson, Whitewater, Devils Ford and Chattoooga carved these rugged

24 • Visitors Guide

gorges and produced scenic waterfalls and other natural beauties.

The name “Jocassee,” according to Native American legend, means “Place of the Lost One.” Evocative Indian names echo throughout the Jocassee region, such as Oconee and Eastatoe, both tribes that inhabited the area. The Eastatoees were called the Green Birds and likely received their name from the Carolina parakeet, the only parrot native to eastern North America, a species that became extinct in 1904.

The Eastatoe valley was the last site where scientists recorded a sighting of the species in South Carolina.

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Fish And Wildlife Plants Wildlife populations in the Jocassee GorgThe forest coves of the area contain an es region are diverse and contain many rare abundance of native wildflowers, including species. An overview would include one of various species of trilliums, orchids and many the most abundant black bear populations species largely restricted to this area. They in the Southeast. No, you will not often see create a special floral show for the woodland a bear, but a white-tailed deer is a common hiker in spring months, with peak blooming sight, and the forested communities around from mid-April to mid-May. Jocassee support a healthy and sustainable Oconee bells, a beautiful area wildflower, population. Bobcats are one of the largest grow only in the Jocassee area and in a few predators of the area. Though they counties in the North Carolina footare seldom seen, they occur in hills. Visitors can see the flowers abundance in the many forest in abundance at Devils Fork community types around State Park. Its blooming Jocassee Gorges. period is typically midLake Jocassee, manMarch to early April. aged as a stocked Besides the comtrout fishery, supports mon rhododendron trophy-sized rainbow and mountain laurel and brown trout, and that occur throughout a self-sustaining popSouth Carolina’s mounulation of large and tains, the Jocassee area smallmouth bass, besupports a great diversides other warm-water sity of ferns and mosses species of game fish. Brook otherwise known only to octrout, the only species of trout cur in tropical habitats of Cennative to the eastern United States, tral America. Stands of mature and Oconee Bells continue to sustain viable populations old-growth forest occur throughout in the headwaters of several streams the area and include hemlocks, white within the Jocassee Gorges. pine and yellow poplar trees more than four

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 25

feet in diameter. Fall colors are spectacular with yellow poplar, sourwood, black gum, red maple, hickories, and oaks creating the centerpiece of the display, typically in its peak between mid-October and early November.

Species that may be seen or heard on the drier slopes and ridges include ovenbirds, summer tanagers, solitary vireos, pinewarblers, black and white warblers, worm-eating warblers and Eastern towhees. In the numerous coves, black-throated Hunting in the green warblers, scarlet Jocassee Gorges tanagers, hooded warAlmost all of the Joblers, yellow-throated cassee Gorges propvireos, Northern parula erties are in the S.C. warblers, and AmeriDepartment of Natural can redstarts are some Resources Wildlife Manof the more colorful agement Area (WMA) members of the songProgram and are available bird community that may for public hunting. Hunters be observed. Bald eagles are required to have a WMA can be observed over Lake JoThe swallowtail feasts permit, and hunters should concassee. Peregrine falcons have on many natural plants sult the S.C. Department of Natbeen re-established as a nestaround the region. ural Resources “Rules & Regulaing species in South Carolina tions” publication for specifics. through a program conducted Generally, big-game season is open from in the mountains in the late 1980s. PerOctober 1 - January 1, turkey season from egrines now successfully nest in the region April 1 to May 1; and small-game season var- each summer. ies by species with no small game hunting before September 1 or after March 1.

Pure beauty To enjoy a day trip through Oconee CounBird-watching in the Jocassee Gorges ty’s “Disney Land,” use the map below to The Southern Appalachians provide navigate your way up through the mountainunique opportunities for bird-watching. ous, winding roads of the Sumter National Hikers can frequently see great blue herons keeping solitary vigil over a clear, cool mountain stream, hunting for frogs and fish.

Bird watching, above is a waterfowl and at right is a red-tail hawk, is a popular activity for many outdoor enthusiasts.

26 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Lake Jocassee

Forest, visit several waterfalls, view Lake Jocassee, dine at the locations listed and stay at one of our accommodations and make a weekend out of it.

For a more adventurous trip, try rafting the Chattooga River or taking a boatride on pristine Lake Jocassee.

Peak season varies from year to year, but typically begins in late October and runs through mid-November. Please feel free to check in with us to determine the best time to visit.

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Chattooga River

Visitors Guide • 27

DoWNToWN SeNeCa, SC 6th annual

-26 4 2 may

Live in Concert Saturday, May 26 at 8 p.m.

lITTle RIVeR baND

FRIDaY, MaY 25 claSSic car cruiSe-in 3:00 P.M. Soul FeatherS 6:30 P.M. Part time Party time 8:30 P.M. 96.3 WGoG country niGht

THe JaMIe WRIgHT expeRIeNCe

kICkS oFF SeNeCa FeST THURSDaY NIgHT aT 6:30 p.M.

Beginning Friday, May 25 at 6 p.m.

SaTURDaY MaY 26 5K road race 8 A.M. blueGraSS 10 A.M.-12 P.M.

Featuring Chatuga Ridge, True Blue at 3 p.m and Stone Echo at 6:30 p.m.

Seneca FeSt 11:00 A.M.

The Promenade and Townville Walk featuring Artists Music and Flowers

HUgE LAsER sHOW Saturday, May 26th

VIsIT WWW.sENECA.sC.Us fOR dETAILs WHILE YOU’RE HERE, VIsIT OUR PARTNERs...

28 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Inspirational Singing Competition

HIS VoICe EVERY THURSDAY

Beginning April 5th, 6:30PM Ram Cat Alley Featuring: America’s Touring Jazz Musicians

STaRTS StartS MaY may 4TH 4th

GiGailliat community center Four PaWS only

STRUTT CRUSIN’ On Main 1st Saturday of Every Month Beginning April 7th, 3PM

TexaCo CoUNTRY SHoWDoWN JULY 21sT

See up and rising musicians compete for National Prizes and a Recording Contract

Live Music GaLLery OpeninGs Fun FOr The FaMiLy May 18 - July 20 sept. 21 - nov. 16 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

YoUR MUTT HalloWeeN 3k oCTobeR 27TH

HalloWeeN oN THe gReeN october 31St doWntoWn Seneca

Fourth of July Celebration featuring

the tams

huge Fireworks display!

Visitors Guide • 29

Nature’s cascade

Waterfalls in the ‘Golden Corner’

Oconee’s mountain and river terrain offers 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. Hiking to these waterfalls ranges from easy to moderate to difficult to extremely difficult. Those that have established trails are: Issaqueena Falls, Long Creek Falls, Brasstown Falls and Chau Ram Falls.

Bee Cove Falls (Map - Waterfalls 1) This remote multi-tiered falls is a difficult 2–3 hour hike but worth the effort. North from Walhalla on Highway 28, bear right onto Highway 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 Parking Area: N 34.98149 W 083.06280 Big Bend Falls (Map - Waterfalls 2) Largest vertical drop of the Chattooga River is a sight to see, but it is a difficult 3 hour walk. North from Walhalla on Hwy. 28. BEAR RIGHT Hwy. 107. 10 miles LEFT onto Burrells Ford Rd. 3 miles PARK. Follow Foothills Trail 2.5 miles to Big Bend Trail. 0.5 miles HEAR the falls. Follow rugged paths to the falls. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.97128 W 083.11465 Blue Hole Falls (Map - Waterfalls 3) Water rushes 75 feet down a narrow gap into a blue hole, thus the name. Moderate 30 minute hike. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy. 28, 7 miles then LEFT on Whetstone Rd., 1 mile then LEFT on Cassidy Bridge Rd., 1 mile then LEFT on Rich Mountain Rd., 3.3 miles then RIGHT on Cedar Creek Rd., 2.5 miles to PARK. HIKE .3 miles down 2658 to intersection. RIGHT down short path to creek. CROSS creek and follow downstream. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.76171 W 083.18613 Brasstown Falls (Map - Waterfalls 4) Four falls ranging from 20 feet to 40 feet. A beautiful, easy hike.

West from Westminster on US Hwy. 76 for 11 miles to left on Brasstown Road. Right for 4 miles to FS 751. Park and follow trail. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.71908 W 083.30158 Bull Sluice Falls (Map - Waterfalls 5) A sight to see, but dangerous with 14-foot drop on Chattooga River with whitewater in action. Northwest on US Hwy. 76 from Westminster 17 miles. Parking area is before bridge at SC/GA line.

Walk ¼ mile upstream. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.81473 W 083.30512 30 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Chau Ram Falls (Map - Waterfalls 6) Beautiful 30 foot cascades over large boulders where Ramsey Creek and Chauga River meet. Two miles west of Westminster on Hwy. 76 at Chau Ram County Park. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.68171 W 083.14542 Chauga Narrows (Map - Waterfalls 7) Narrow waterfalls 25 feet high. North 7 miles from Walhalla on Hwy. 28. Left on Whetstone Road (S193). Go 3 miles to Blackwell Bridge over Chauga. Park and follow trail for easy ¼ mile hike.

GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.83332 W 083.17399 Cheohee or Miuka Falls (Map - Waterfalls 8) This 75-foot waterfall on Townes Creek can be easily viewed with a 45 minute hike. North from Walhalla on SC 28, bear right on Hwy. 107 for 8.7 miles. Park on right and follow the Winding Stairs Trail beginning at yellow posts on RIGHT. Trail turns RIGHT 0.2 miles. CONTINUE 0.3 miles to clearing and hear the falls. Hike through foliage to creek. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.94110 W 083.08975 Fall Creek Falls (Map Waterfalls 9) Multi-waterfalls ranging from 30 to 40 feet within a 1-mile stretch. This is a difficult 2-mile hike. Travel west 16 miles from Westminster on Hwy 76, turning right on Chattooga Ridge Road (S196). Go 2 miles to left at Fall Creek Road (FS 722).

Joseph L. Parisi MD, FRCSC, FACS

Brian R. Johnson MD

Donald Glaser MD

Nancy A. Mahlie OD

Eric W. Brown OD

cataract & refractive surgery . LASIK . diseases and surgery of the eye including glaucoma and diabetes. examinations . Botox® & Restylane® . eyelid surgery . glaucoma surgery . pediatrics . dry eye

864-654-6706

•

931 Tiger Blvd., Clemson, SC

www.clemsoneye.com Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 31

Take the left fork across Fall Creek and park. Path on left leads to base of first falls and strenuous downstream hike. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.82245 W 083.25079 Hidden Falls (Map - Waterfalls 10) Near the head of the Foothills Trail, this 50-foot waterfall over granite ledges can be reached with a moderate, one-hour hike. NORTH from Walhalla on Hwy. 28. BEAR RIGHT on SC 107 for 2.5 miles to Oconee State Park (admission fee). RIGHT .8 miles to Foothills Trail head. PARK. Follow trail to its junction with Station Mountain Road and the Tamassee Knob Trail. Crossing Station Mountain Road go LEFT10 yards continuing on Foothills Trail. Follow signs to waterfall. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.86309 W 083.09820 Issaqueena Falls (Map - Waterfalls 11) An easy 5 minute hike to the base of this fall gives you a view of the beautiful waterfall named for an Indian maiden who hid on a ledge to avoid capture as she fled to warn her English lover of an Indian attack. North from Walhalla on Hwy. 28 for 5.5 miles, turn right at the entrance of Stumphouse Tunnel Park. Follow signs to waterfall.

GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.80740 W 083.12158 King Creek Falls (Map - Waterfalls 12) This 70-foot tumble through a laurel choked gorge is on King Creek.

Moderate 30 minute hike to 70 foot cascade. NORTH from Walhalla on SC Hwy 28. BEAR RIGHT on SC Hwy 107for 10 miles. LEFT onto Burrells Ford Rd. 2.3 miles PARK ON LEFT. HIKE Chattooga Trail for .3 mile. LEFT by north bank of creek. Cross bridge the LEFT on trail to falls. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.97128 W 083.11465 Laurel Fork Falls (Map – Waterfalls 13) This is the one waterfall you should consider visiting by a means other than hiking. Witnessing 80-foot high Laurel Fork Falls from a boat in the waters of Lake Jocassee is a once-in-alifetime shot. Height: 80 feet. To Foothills Trail Access drive north from Pickens on US 178 for approximately 16.5 miles and turn left onto Laurel Valley Road, take the gravel road to the right and drive .5 mile to the Foothills Trail Laurel Valley Access parking lot on left.

GPS Coordinates to parking area: N 35 02.938 W 82 48.828 Lee Falls (Map - Waterfalls 14) Oconee’s most scenic falls on Tamassee Creek, but no official trails make this a challenging hike. From intersection of SC Hwy. 11 and Hwy 183, go north on Hwy 11 for 4 miles. Turn left on Cheohee Valley Road for 1.4 miles. Turn left onto Road 375 for 1 mile. Turn left on Tamassee Knob Road and right on Jumping Branch Road. Turn left on the second gravel road (FS 715A). GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.89089 W 083.07433 Long Creek Falls (Map - Waterfalls 15) Multi-tiered, 50-foot cascade into Chattooga River. West from Westminster on US 76 13 miles to Damascus Church Road for 1 mile. Turn Right on Battle Creek Road for 2 miles, right on Turkey Ridge Road for 3 miles. Park near 755I. Follow to small parking area and follow right path to right fork.

This is a moderate hour-long hike. Last 1/4 mi. is difficult GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.77767 W 083.31212 32 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

A movie with the stars.

Free outdoor movie 9 p.m. Friday, June 22 The World of Energy’s Lake Keowee Peninsula Off Highway 130 | Seneca, S.C. | 800-777-1004 Featuring a blockbuster family movie on a giant, 43-foot outdoor movie screen.

Spread a blanket on the grass or come by boat. Bring your own snacks or buy concessions on site. No pets and no alcoholic beverages, please!

In the event of bad weather, please call 800-777-1004 for cancellation information.

www.duke-energy.com/worldofenergy.

Mill Creek Falls (Map – Waterfalls 16) Table Rock State Park is best known for Table Rock, but there are quite a few waterfalls in the park. If you hike the trail to Pinnacle Mountain for 4.5 miles you will cross Mill Creek on a scary-looking bridge at the base of 25-foot Mill Creek Falls. There are a few more cascades upstream as well where you can linger. Directions: Table Rock State Park is on S.C. 11 near the Greenville-Pickens county line. Enter at the west gate, go past the campground and follow the signs to the nature center. Park in the lot across from the nature center and cross the road. GPS coordinates to Table Rock State Park: W 35.035889 N 82.705917 Opposum Creek Falls (Map - Waterfalls 17) 2 hour hike to this 50-foot cascade requires quite an effort. WEST from Westminster on US76 13 miles. LEFT Onto Damascus Church Rd. 1 mile.

RIGHT on Battle Creek Rd. 2 miles. RIGHT on Turkey Ridge RD. 0.5 mile.

PARK on left and follow trail for 2 miles then hike upstream. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.77332 W 083.30361 Pigpen/Licklog Falls (Map - Waterfalls 18) Two sets of fall 1/4 mile apart. From Hwy. 28/US 107 intersection, north on 107, 3 miles to a left on Village Creek Road for 1 mile.

Turn right on Nicholson Ford Road (FS 775) 2 miles to park. Access Foothills Trail toward Chattooga River and Falls. Easy one-hour hike.

GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.91905 W 083.12020 Rainbow Falls (Map - Waterfalls 19) This is a 150 foot impressive fall, and the hike is adventurous enough to make you feel like you are getting away from it all, but not too challenging. Definitely worth a visit. The Horsepasture River is a good spot around which to build a waterfall tour. Rainbow Falls is one of the many falls on the Horsepasture River, and is most impressive. The Horsepasture River can be accessed from Gorges State Park. The park is located on NC-281 between US-64 and the South Carolina border.

Riley Moore Falls (Map - Waterfalls 20) Once the site of a gristmill, this waterfall measures 12 feet high, 100 feet wide. Moderate 15 minute walk. WEST from Westminster 7.5 miles on US 76. RIGHT on Cobb Bridge Rd. 1.4 miles. LEFT on Spy Rock Rd, which is gravel, 2 miles. RIGHT on FS 748C. End of road, follow short trail to falls. Moderate 15 minute walk. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.74106 W 083.18535 Secret Falls (Map - Waterfalls 21) Winding Stairs Trail leads to this waterfall off the beaten path. NORTH from Walhalla on SC Hwy 28. BEAR RIGHT Hwy 107. 8.7 miles PARK on right. FOLLOW Winding Stairs Trail beginning at yellow posts on RIGHT. Trail turns RIGHT 0.2 miles. CONTINUE down trail past clearing where you exit to view Cheohee Falls. At 3rd LEFT turn, leave trail and head south through foliage, looking for ravine on left. 300 yards from the trail you view the waterfall. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.94110 W 083.08975 34 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Spoonauger Falls (Map - Waterfalls 22) Set back into a hillside and surrounded by an explosion of shrubbery.

This 50-foot waterfall has easy access. Easy 20 minute hike. NORTH from Walhalla on SC Hwy 28. BEAR RIGHT on US Hwy 107. 10 miles LEFT on Burrells Ford Rd. 2.3 miles to bridge over Chattooga. PARK and HIKE upstream along Chattooga River until crossing first stream.

Trail switchbacks for 100 yards to base of falls. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.97480 W 08311478 Station Cove Falls (Map - Waterfalls 23) Station Cove Falls, a stepped 60-foot waterfall forms from headwaters atop Station Mountain. An easy, 30-minute hike through a gorgeous Appalachian cove takes you to the waterfall. From the intersection of SC Highway 11 and SC 183, drive 1.5 miles north on SC 11. LEFT on Oconee Station Rd 2.4 miles to trailhead, past historic site. PARK and FOLLOW trail to falls. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.84867 W 083.07463 Turtleback Falls (Map - Waterfalls 24) Turtleback Falls is one of the many falls on the Horsepasture River. See Rainbow Falls for details on how to find the falls. The falls are downstream (to the left) of where the trail meets the river. This is a small waterfall. The locals use it as a waterslide.

Whitewater Falls, upper (Map - Waterfalls 26) Beginning in North Carolina and ending in South Carolina, these falls are the highest in eastern America. From Hwy. 11 in Salem, go north on Hwy. 130 ten miles and follow signs to Whitewater Falls.

Whitewater Falls, lower (Map - Waterfalls 27) Beginning in North Carolina and ending in South Carolina, these falls are the highest in eastern America. From SC Hwy 11 at Salem. NORTH on Hwy 130 10 miles. RIGHT at Duke Powers Bad Creek Hydro Station. PARK for Foothills Trail. 1.7 miles to the overlook.

GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 35.01246 W 082.99911 Wright’s Creek Falls (Map – Waterfalls 28) Located on Lake Jocassee this falls is only accessible by boat. Launch from Devils Fork State Park (parking fee required). Boat rentals and lake tours available. For exact locations of the falls, please stop by the Devils Fork Ranger Station for a map and detailed directions. GPS coordinates for Devils Fork State Park are: N 34.952139W 82.946134 Yellow Branch Falls (Map - Waterfalls 29) 60-foot cascades over rock ledges makes this one of the favorites. NORTH from Walhalla on SC 28 for 5.4 miles. LEFT to Yellow Branch Recreation Area. HIKE short distance on nature trail to Yellow Branch Falls Trail. 1.3 miles to the falls. GPS Coordinates Parking Area: N 34.80557 W 083.12876 Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 35

Foothills

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The Sumter National Forest

Andrew Pickens Ranger District & Station Located in the Andrew Pickens District, the station is named for Revolutionary War General Andrew Pickens. This 79,000-acre district serves as the gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains of South Carolina, Georgia and North Carolina. Commonly known as the “Stumphouse” Ranger Station, this location 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. The wilderness is about 16 miles north of Walhalla, South Carolina.

Straddling the 15,432-acre Chattooga Wild and Scenic River corridor, it provides a large, undeveloped area within easy driving distance of Atlanta.

Andrew Pickens Ranger Station is a great resource for the Sumter National Forest. View from the South Carolina mountains overlooking Sumter National Forest.

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.fed.us/r8/ fms/forest/about/

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 37

Camping ■ Camping in the Sumter Forest Camping is allowed on the Andrew Pickens District without a permit.

Groups of fewer than 75 people may camp in a campground. Groups of more than 75 require a special-use permit in either a campground or undesignated area.

Groups of any size camping in undesignated areas will need a permit except on the Andrew Pickens Ranger District.

Cassidy Bridge Primitive Camp Cherry Hill Recreation Area Whetstone Horse Camp Reservations may be made by calling 877.444.6777 or online at www.ReserveUSA.com.

Andrew Pickens Ranger District Primitive Campsites These small campsites have few, if any, facilities. Saddle, pack, and draft animals are not permitted except at Riley More Ford and Tamassee Camp. For directions and seasonal road information, you are strongly urged to contact: Andrew Pickens Ranger District 112 Andrew Pickens Circle Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.638.9568 King’s Creek Big Bend Grapevine Chauga Bottoms Timmy Place Turpin Branch Fall Creek Thrifts Ferry Woodall Shoals Brasstown Falls Owl Branch Long Bottom Ford Nicholson Field Blackwell Bridge Double Branch

38 • Visitors Guide

Additional camping opportunities in Oconee’s Blue Ridge Mountains Lake Hartwell State Park 19138-A South Hwy 11 Fair Play, SC 29643 864.972.3352 www.southcarolinaparks.com/ park-finder Devils Fork State Park 161 Holcombe Cir. Salem, SC 29676 866.345.PARK, 864.944.2639 www.southcarolinaparks.com/ park-finder Oconee State Park 624 State Park Rd. Mountain Rest, SC 29664 866.345.PARK, 864.638.5353 www.southcarolinaparks.com/ park-finder/state-park/750.aspx High Falls County Park 671 High Falls Road Seneca, SC 29672 864.882.8234 www.experienceoconee.com South Cove County Park 1099 South Cove Rd. Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.5250 www.experienceoconee.com Chau Ram County Park 1220 Chau Ram Park Rd. Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.9286 www.experienceoconee.com

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The Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway Due to a variety of impressive mountain, lake and forest landscapes, the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway (SC Hwy. 11) has always lived up to its name. This attractive route skirts the Blue Ridge escarpment, with several access points into state parks along the way. This 115-mile scenic highway is a great alternate to Interstate 85 through South Carolina. Whether you drive straight through or take your time and take the side trips, you are sure to enjoy your trip along South Carolina Scenic 11. For additional info, visit www.southcarolinaparks.com.

■ Lodging & Recreation in State and County Parks State Parks Devil’s 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 off of 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 40 • Visitors Guide

Table Rock

Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area is a fisherman’s dream. The 56,000-acre lake maintains a reputation for top-flight angling, including striped bass and hybrid bass, largemouth, crappie, bream and catfish. In addition to lake access, the site offers hiking, affordable one-room camper cabins and an information center, which has on display of vintage fishing equipment.

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, as well as its well-kept cabins www.SCMountainLakes.com

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 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. Camping, fishing, boating, sailing and water skiing are readily accessible. For those interested in a mountainous setting filled with beautiful waterfalls, Chau Ram Park is just 10 miles from famous Chattooga National Wild and Scenic River and is also close to Sumter National Forest.

Oconee State Park

Chau Ram Park (Map - Parks 2) Westminster, South Carolina 864.647.9286 www.oconeesc.com/parks Open March - November.

Chau Ram County Park is located at the confluence of the Chauga River and Ramsay Creek. With a 40-foot waterfall and Oconee’s longest suspension bridge, Chau Ram has something to offer everyone. Visitors can enjoy hiking/biking trails or go tubing and

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Visitors Guide • 41

fishing on the river. Many campers use the park as a base when going rafting on the nearby Chattooga River. Shelters and a recreational building are also available.

High Falls Park (Map - Parks 6) 671 High Falls Rd Seneca, South Carolina 29672 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. At High Falls, visitors are not limited to activities on the lake as the park provides many facilities and programs to suit every recreational need. The park store offers a variety of convenient items and is located in the park’s focal point, The historic Alexander/Cannon/Hill House. The house was built in 1830, and is one of the last remaining pieces of the area’s history. Among the park’s amenities are 100 campsites, a boat ramp, two shelters, a recreational building, miniature golf, a softball field, volleyball area and horseshoes.

South Cove Park (Map - Parks 13) Seneca, South Carolina 29672 864.882.5250 www.experienceoconee.com South Cove Park is located on the clear waters of Lake Keowee and offers a variety of day use facilities as well as lakeside camping. Fishing, boating, sailing and water skiing are readily accessible via two park boat

ramps. Day use facilities include four lighted tennis courts, a volleyball court, playground areas, a handicapped accessible fishing pier and a sand beach. The day use area also provides picnic tables and grills as well as two rental facilities for group events. Camping is provided on a first-come first-served basis and is located on a peninsula overlooking Lake Keowee. Of the campsites available, 46 are waterfront.

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42 • Visitors Guide

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Hit the Trails!

When it comes to trails, you’ve hit the jackpot with Oconee County!

No matter what your thing – hiking, biking, waterfalls, fitness, river exploring, ATV, horseback, and history, it is all to be found on the many trails of this rich region. A great source of public information regarding these trails is the website maintained by the South Carolina State Trails Program, www.sctrails.net. The site provides trail maps, a trail inventory, details on special interest trails like those named above, and a wealth of information regarding the increasingly popular activity. Appealing to high adventurers, families, and even those with more modest physical ambition, the trails of this region offer something for everyone, from simple park trails to ambitious steep climbs and cave exploration. Trails on this site are well described, with quality descriptions, lengths and times of hikes, difficulty levels and good directions. All of the hikes are worthwhile.

For more information: Andrew Pickens Ranger District 112 Andrew Pickens Circle Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.638.9568 Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.

44 • Visitors Guide

■ Hiking and Trails For other great hikes than those listed here, please visit www.scmountainlakes.com/uploads/Experience/ Hiking.asp. For hikes to some of the nearly 150 waterfalls in Oconee County, please see the waterfall section of this guide.

Big Bend Trail (Map - Trails 1) Starting from the Cherry Hill Recreation Area, a moderate 2.7-mile trail affords views of the biggest drop on the Chattooga River, a rumbling 30foot hydraulic known as Big Bend

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Falls. Even though this is a mountainous locale, you will find the hiking on this trail is fairly straightforward. The Big Bend Trail eventually ends at a junction with the Foothills Trail.

Chattooga Trail (Map - Trails 2) This moderately difficult, 15.5-mile trail runs parallel to the famous Chattooga River and through some of the finest wilderness in South Carolina. At points along the way, it shares sections with the Foothills and Bartram trails, but make no mistake, this trail is all about the wild Chattooga River watershed. The trail is popular among hikers because for many points along the way you won’t see a soul. Waterfall lovers shouldn’t miss this trail, since you can see a number of them here including King Creek, Spoonauger, Big Bend, Pig Pen, and Licklog Falls.

East Fork Trail (Map - Trails 3) The East Fork Trail has 2 trailheads: one at the Chattooga Picnic Area adjacent to the Walhalla Fish Hatchery and one at Burrells Ford. Starting at the picnic area, East Fork Trail is an easy 2.5-mile hike along the north bank of the scenic, fast-moving east fork of the Chattooga River. If you start from the west trailhead, you will need to hike 2.1 miles on the Chattooga Trail from Burrells Ford.

Foothills Trail (Map - Trails 4) This trail covers about 100 miles, including spur and loop trails linking Oconee State Park with Table Rock State Park via Whitewater Falls, the highest waterfall in the east.

The trail crosses numerous rivers. Activities associated with the Foothills Trail are coordinated by the Foothills Trail Conference.

For information about the trail, purchasing a guide book, or membership in the Conference, write to The Foothills Trail Conference, PO Box 3041, Greenville, South Carolina 29602, or call the Conference office at 864.467.9537.

The areas surrounding the trail vary widely from beautiful State parks (Oconee and Table Rock) to Nantahala National Forest lands (Whitewater Falls). Recreational opportuniExperience Oconee, South Carolina

ties abound in the area, from camping in the forest and state parks, to fishing and swimming on the rivers and lakes.

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Visitors Guide • 45

parking area, and a hiking access trail to the Fork Mountain Trail (Map - Trails 5) This moderately difficult. 6.4-mile trail Chattooga River. starts in South Carolina at the Sloan Bridge Picnic Area and ends in North Carolina where Winding Stairs Trail (Map - Trails 7) it joins the Bad Creek Trail in the Ellicott A 75-foot waterfall tucked away along this Rock Wilderness Area. From here, moderate, 3.5-mile trail helps make the trail eventually becomes the the Winding Stairs Trail one of Chattooga Trail and continthe finest beginner trails in ues southwest to Burrells northwest South Carolina.

Ford. The trail weaves If you start at the northern along the northern flanks trailhead at the Cherry of Fork Mountain, asHill Recreation Area, this cending and descending meandering path is an through numerous coves easy hike because it drops and ravines. Since the trail 1,100 feet over its length. If is lightly used, fallen trees you are looking for a more and occasional undergrowth demanding hike, start at the may present some problems. At southern trailhead on Tamassee Oconee Bell the junction with the Bad Creek Trail, Road (FS 710). you can return or extend your hike approximately 1.3 miles to Ellicott Rock.

Bad Creek Spur Trail (Map - Trails 8) From the parking area at the Bad Creek Rocky Gap/Willis Knob Horse Trails Hydroelectric Plant this short, moderately (Map - Trails 6) strenuous trail provides a connection to the The Rocky Gap Trail in South Carolina and Coon Branch Trail, Foothills Trail and Lower the Willis Knob Trail in Georgia combine to Whitewater Falls Trail (via the Foothills Trail). offer some of the most scenic horseback rid- From Walhalla, drive north on S.C. Highway ing in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains. 11 and turn left on to S.C. Highway 130.

Winding across deeply dissected ridges, Drive 10 miles to the entrance of the Duke the trails descend into the beautiful Chat- Energy Bad Creek Hydroelectric Station. toooga Wild and Scenic River corridor. The Register at the guard gate, and then follow Whetstone Horse Camp in South Carolina the signs for two miles to the parking area serves as a base camp for many users of for the Whitewater Falls and Foothills Trails. both trails. There is a fee for the Whetstone Horse Camp. Earls Ford road is very close Blue Ridge Railroad Historic Trail (Map - Trails to Whetstone Horse Camp and provides a 9) This yellow-and-red blazed, seven-mile out-and-back hike on the Blue Ridge Railroad Historical Trail is moderate to strenuous along an incomplete 19th-century railbed near Walhalla.

Oconee Bells Nature Trail (Map - Trails 10) This easy, one-mile loop within Devils Fork State Park gets its name from a rare wild flower that has gorgeous white blooms.

From Walhalla, drive north on S.C. Highway 11 for approximately 13.5 miles, and turn left onto Jocassee Road. Continue driving four miles on this winding road and bear right at the sign that clearly points to the park office.

46 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

The trailhead is behind the park office at the bottom of the hill. You can park in the boat ramp parking lot behind the park office.

Choestoea Trail (Map - Trails 11)

This is a mostly-level, out-and-back. .8 of a mile hiking trail that follows an old roadbed through hardwood and pine forest.

Pets are permitted on a leash.

Length: 0.8 mile. Take S.C. Highway 11 south and Walhalla and turn right onto BlackJack Road. Drive 5.5 miles and turn left at the tintersection onto Dr. John Road. Turn right onto Choestoea Road.

The trailhead is on the left before the boat ramp.

Beech Bluff Trail (Map - Trails 12)

On this short, hilly, out-and-back dirt path through a quiet forest of pine and oak, you will wind along a ravine and creek, and pass scenic views of Lake Hartwell. Pets are permitted on a leash.

From Exit 1 on I–85, drive north on SC 11. The entrance to Hartwell State Park is .5 mile on the left. Drive to the first parking area on the left near the pavilion. The trailhead is located between two wooden posts at the parking area.

Oconee Connector for the Palmetto Trail (Sumter National Forest) (Map - Trails 12) Once the Palmetto Trail is complete, this Experience Oconee, South Carolina

moderately difficult trail will be the terminus, but for now you can start from either Oconee State Park or Oconee Station.

Mountain bikes are allowed on the Oconee Connector.

Length: 3.2 miles.

Natural Bridge Nature (Map - Trails 13)

Starting from the Meeting House in Keowee-Toxaway State Natural Area, this moderately strenuous, well-marked 1.5-mile loop will provide you with a 45-minute get away in the land that Cherokee Indians once traversed. From Clemson, drive north for 20 miles on SC Highway 133 until you reach SC Highway 11. The entrance to the park is on your immediate left, or you can turn right to reach the hiking trails, lake access and camping area.

Raven Rock (Map - Trails 14)

Starting from the Meeting House in Keowee-Toxaway State Natural Area, this moderately strenuous, well-marked 4.2-mile loop will provide you with a link to the past as you hike on land that Cherokee Indians once traversed. From Clemson, drive north for 20 miles on SC. Highway 133 until you reach SC Highway 11. The entrance to the park is on your immediate left, or you can turn right to reach the hiking trails, lake access and camping area.

Visitors Guide • 47

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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 reputation for pristine waters, endless mountain views, and lots of room for boating, fishing, skiing, sailing, kayaking and all matter of water activity. With over 300 miles of shoreline on Lake Keowee and 75 miles on the more secluded Lake Jocassee, even the most beautiful days allow for plenty of room to enjoy the water.

At the southern end of the county is Hartwell Lake, one of the Southeast’s largest and most popular public recreation lakes, often referred to as “the Great Lake of the South.”

Keowee is generally more accessible, as well as more developed, with public boat ramps maintained by both the Oconee County Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism and Duke Energy. On the lower level of Lake Keowee, access is available at: • Oconee County’s South Cove Park • Cane Creek Access, a Duke Energy ramp • High Falls County Park • Duke Energy’s Stamp Creek Access Area • Keowee Marina • Duke’s Warpath Access Area.

Keowee’s north end offers cooler waters and a closer view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Access is available at: • Pickens County’s Mile Creek Park • Duke’s Crow Creek Access Area • Oconee County’s Keowee Towne Landing • Duke Energy’s Fall Creek Access Visitors Guide • 49

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 the annual 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.

Public access to the largely undeveloped 7500-acre Lake Jocassee is limited to Devils Fork State Park off of Highway 11, the number one visited state park in South Carolina.

The largely undeveloped lake lies snug into the Blue Ridge Mountains and is popular for families, fishermen and bird watchers. The park offers first class amenities but is very popular, so be sure to check for reservations at www.ReserveUSA.com Hartwell Lake 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 persons visiting annually. Hartwell Lake comprises nearly 56,000 acres of water with a shoreline of 962 miles, 262 bordering 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 Park is a popular camping and boating destination, as are Coneross Campground located on the Seneca River arm of the northern end of Hartwell, and Oconee Point Campground, also located on the Seneca River arm of the northern end of Hartwell. Oconee is host to 18 boat ramps on Hartwell Lake, several picnic and swimming areas, and several va-

cation rental homes. For additional information, contact Hartwell Lake’s visitor information center at 803.225.3832 or visit the Lake Hartwell Marketing Alliance website at www.

MyLakeHartwell.org.

See also Boat Rentals and Guided Lake Tours on page 58.

■ rivers Fun, excitement on the Southeast’s finest The Chattooga River The 19-mile stretch of the Chattooga National Wild and Scenic River is known for its

“The #1 Thing Every Southerner Ought to Do!” Southern Living Chattooga River whitewater rafting offers the mild and scenic Section III and the wild and scenic Section IV, two distinct and memorable river trips. The Chattooga delivers breathtaking scenery and treasured whitewater in an unmatched wilderness setting. NOC has been leading trips on this federally-designated Wild and Scenic River since the company’s beginning in 1972.

Chattooga Ridge Road GPS: 34.816596, -83.236392 1.800.367.3521

www.NOC.com 50 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Lake Keowee

history, whitewater rapids, and meandering mountainous woodland passage. Its lower passage is considered among the best of whitewater trips with Class III to Class VI heart thumping rapids.

Though the scenery is beautiful and often peaceful, the currents and undercurrents of the river can be dangerous. Guide services are recommended. The National Forest Service has regulations for use of the river.

Contact the Sumter National Forest Rangers Office at 864.638.9568.

The Chattooga River is listed in Trout Unlimited’s “America’s 100 Best Trout Streams.” 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, camping, and even just a lazy day, the Chattooga is a rare experience - one of the reasons it is a federally designated Wild and Scenic River.

Four companies are commercially licensed to operate on the Chattooga by the USDA Forest Service. These companies also provide instructional clinics in whitewater canoeing and kayaking.

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Southeastern Expeditions 50 Executive Park South Suite 5016 Atlanta, GA 30329 800.868.7238 or .404.329.0433 www.SouthEasternExpeditions.com The Chauga River The 9.8-mile path of the Chauga River offers much of the same scenic beauty and cool waters found on the Chattooga but is the lesser known of the two 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 Scenic River is also popular with anglers. Good access and parking are available adjacent to Cassidy Bridge on Hwy. 290. Trout can be caught in many of the smaller streams.

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54 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Fishing in Oconee Oconee County offers world-class fresh water fishing in some the country’s most productive lakes, rivers and streams. The Mountain Lakes region of South Carolina boasts six state records and one world record: Spotted Bass Lake Jocassee David Preston

8.5 lbs.

2001

Smallmouth Bass 9.7 lbs.

Lake Jocassee 2001 Terry Dodson Redeye Bass* Lake Jocassee Randy Dixon

5.25 lbs.

2001

Brown Trout Lake Jocassee Larry Edwards

17.95 lbs.

1987

Rainbow Trout Lake Jocassee Scott Coggins

11.5 lbs.

1993

Yellow Perch Lake Keowee D. Scarborough

3.4 lbs.

1979

*The Redeye Bass is a world record.

One of the best resources for fishing information is the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). For detailed information on fishing licenses, rules and regulations, fish species or anything else you need to know about fishing in Oconee County, visit their website at www.dnr. sc.gov/fish.html or call at 864-654-1671.

Rules & Regulations: www.dnr.sc.gov/ regs/pdf/fishing.pdf Experience Oconee, South Carolina

■ Where to Fish Lake Hartwell Crappie, Bluegill, Channel Catfish, Hybrid Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, White Bass Lake Jocassee Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Redeye Bass, White Bass, Spotted Bass, Bluegill, Catfish, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, Carp Lake Keowee Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Redeye Bass, White Bass, Spotted Bass, Bluegill, Catfish Oconee State Park (2 lakes) Largemouth Bass, Bream, Trout, Catfish

Pontoon rentals are available on a daily, weekend or weekly basis. Minimum rental is four hours weekdays. All pontoons are 20 to 24 feet and come with full safety equipment including lifejackets, horns, and fire extinguishers.

Our fleet of pontoons are all newer models, and include swim ladder, Sun Lounge, Stereo System and large captain’s chair, and changing room !

Jocassee-Keowee Rentals LLC 864.704.0004 www.lakejocassee.com Visitors Guide • 55

Chattooga River Smallmouth Bass, Bluegill, Catfish, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, Red Eye Bass

Fishski Business LLC Guided Fishing www.fishski.info, 864.353.3438 Lakes: Hartwell, Jocassee

Lake Tugaloo Bream, Crappie, Walleye, Largemouth Bass, White Bass, Catfish

Lake Jocassee Guide Service Guided Fishing www.jocasseefishing.com, 864.557.0475 Lakes: Jocassee

Eastatoe River Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout Chauga River Trout, Red Eye Bass ■ Fishing Guides Carolina Outdoorsman E-mail: montym@innova.net, 864.647.7410 cotvshow.com via contact page Outdoor Exposure, LLC Fishing & Lake Tours PO Box 74 , Richland, SC 29675 www.captteach.com, 864.723.4423 Lakes: Hartwell, Jocassee, Keowee Fish Tales Guide Service Guided Fishing www.fishhartwell.com, 864.260.9932 Lakes: Hartwell, Keowee

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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.

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- Stripers can get up to 60 lbs.

- All Bait and Tackle included

Capt. Steve Pietrykowski Phone: 864.353.3438

www.HartwellGuidedFishing.com 56 • Visitors Guide

864-638-2806

www.crflyshop.com www.SCMountainLakes.com

Jocassee Charters Fishing & Lake Tours www.jocasseecharters.com, 864.280.9056 Lakes: Jocassee Capt. Bill’s Fishing Adventures Guided Fishing www.lakehartwellfishing.com 864.287.2120, 864.230.7363 Lakes: Hartwell Buster Green’s Guide Service Guided Fishing www.palmettostateteamtrail.com, 864.277.2463 Lakes: Hartwell, Keowee SC Guide Service Guided Fishing www.scguideservice.com, 864.304.9011 Lakes: Hartwell ■ Boat Rentals & Guided Lake Tours Jocassee-Keowee Rentals www.lakejocassee.com/pontoon.htm 864.704.0004 Jocassee Outdoor Center 516 Jocassee Lake Rd., Salem, SC 29676 www.jocasseeoutdoorcenter.com, 864.944.9016 Lake Keowee Marina 156 Keowee Marina Dr., Seneca, SC 29678 www.lakekeoweemarina.com, 864.882.2047 Ultimate Action Sports LLC Salem, SC 29676 www.keoweewatersports.com, 864.944.1887 ■ bait & tackle Chattooga River Fly Shop 614 Village Dr., Mountain Rest, SC 29664 www.crflyshop.wordpress.com, 864.638.2806 The Fishing Hole 1600 Shiloh Rd., Seneca, SC 29678 864.654.9315 Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Cities and Towns The charming cities and towns of the Mountain Lakes Region have much to offer. Antiquing is a favorite pastime, reflecting the value on heritage by the locals. You’ll find quaint restaurants, treasured historic districts, regional artists and a variety of locally owned shops and boutiques to enjoy. Find a treasure here and enjoy the local history!

■ Fair play Fairplay is an unincorporated community in Oconee close to I-85. It is close to Hartwell Lake and is host to popular boating and golf activities.

■ Long Creek Long Creek is a town in Western Oconee County. It is located within the Sumter National Forest. It is the location of the Long Creek Academy on the National Register of Historic Places.

■ Mountain Rest Mountain Rest is an unincorporated commu-

Chattooga Ridge Canopy Tours A Zip Through the Trees & Over Academy Lake Enjoy a soaring and gliding experience naturally fueled by a gradual elevation change in Upstate Long Creek, SC. It takes limited energy to participate and is not designed to scare with big drops as much as excite with smooth gliding treetop views. Chattooga Ridge Canopy Tours opened early March, 2010 and is the first zipline/canopy tour facility in the area.

Wildwater Ltd’s Chattooga Rafting Center

1251 Academy Road | Long Creek, SC 29658 GPS Coordinates: 34 47’ 36 N, 083 14’ 47 W 864-647-9587 | 800.451.9972 www.WildWaterRafting.com Visitors Guide • 57

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Potshot taken

SPORTS

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, A5 Thursday other news.

B1 Anthony trial, rests in Casey for Team USA. : Prosecution player shows her stuff NAL NEWS basketball & NATIO High School WORLD OUT: Seneca SHOWING VOL. 107

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| 864-882-2386 Sports Editor: Steven Bradley | steven@dailyjm.com | 864-882-2385 Assistant Sports Editor: Eric Sprott | eric@dailyjm.com

Police: Beating suspect saw killing

in SC

heats Old dispute re gunfi up; ends in

Saturday, January 21, 2012

RACIN’ GREATS NASCAR inducts the most diverse class to date into its Hall of Fame. B4

INSIDE Scoreboard B2 High schools B3 NFL B6

‘Grand slam’ hire

The Journal B1

Clemson presents Venables as new defensive boss

BY STEVEN BRADLEY THE JOURNAL

CLEMSON — Many found Dabo Swinney’s exuberant onMOORE field interview after Clemson

BY ANDREW beat defending national champ THE JOURNAL Auburn this season a bit over the top. So did Brent Venables.

— A 25-year-old SENECA of partici“You really sensed the pasearlier man suspected sion and somebody that cared in a beatingmonth pating this for the players,” he said. “There was arrested was an innocence that was but Tuesday, attached to it that to me is lost authorities in college athletics across the are interested board. And that was very atfor in him tractive to me.” more than The longtime Oklahoma one reason. defensive coordinator was allegedly at Marcus introduced Friday at the West 25, fi re shots Whitner Whitner, Endzone of Memorial Stadium acquainan of helping for the same position with the tance. is suspected beat another Tigers, eight days after receivRonnie s on June Jason Soland ing a text message from SwinCobb that Lee Cobb man unconsciou 7:30 p.m. ney gauging his interest in the on mul- a 3. At roughly police were job. Seconds later, Swinney’s in Seneca was arrested related to Street night, 4th to phone rang and on the other end tiple charges dispatchedto a large fight. shooting. diswas Venables. weekend police were response found discovThe two talked into the wee Seneca Oconee Mediman There they to 6 hours of the morning last Fripatched just before ered a 28-year-old s and bleeding day, and by the following night, cal Center nose and unconsciou ed mouth, Venables and his wife had made p.m. Sunday. encounter REX BROWN | IPTAY MEDIA from his they their way to Clemson.

There been to ears.

Swinney looks on Friday in Clemson. who had who not able By the time Venables left introducing him as coach Dabo a man He was his own at speaks during a news conference the hand had on Sunday night, both he and New toClemson defensive coordinator shot in JOURNAL that he at a breathe but was able FOR THE Swinney knew they wanted to told them while the scene, Oconee Medical at join forces. been injured on Lindsay been recover since house of Explorers, But Venables still had to He has friend’s the east side Seneca Thomas Center.

Alan clockwise: decide whether he could uproot soon Road, on McCoy, of the released. was arrested moving Stephin his family from Norman, Okla., one Seneca.

Police at top and to the man a Soland seemed clear nothing further Starting Jaron Livingston,nozzles during awards are the Seneca According Cobb and and Swinney still had to do his entire report, but anyone can after and t confirmed shot, attach would develop. Still, we thought afternoon from sources we with their are, from from left, e reported on our “due diligence” as far as intersee the story exists — and then had begun who was Childress They Standing trust implicitly Departmenseeking two Jaron it only responsible to include person and Kris n exercises.

Wednesday viewing other candidates for the add more details and update the second when Cobb allegFire Explorers. Holbrooks, who theywebsite Venables had they were the news Venables had refuted Atticus competitioof the Seneca Alan the afternoon Brent Venposition. website with a more thorough arguing Haney, out a small been hired and Lipscomb, more individuals him beat Kieran the notion that his move to members leader Gabrial the Lauren helped ables would be Clemson’s next leader

By Tuesday evening, Swinney version. edly pulled his contract believe and shot, the Clemson was a done deal, so we left, post Stephen McCoy, assistant post on, Kris of coordinator and was I had done all this by about 6 could wait no longer. handgun defensive and hitting was on its way man. in updated our story and changed Livingston, mates looking of the is suspectedthat to be officially intro“My gut, my instinct was that stray bullet Kris Childress p.m. Wednesday, at which point Whitner of theexpected mob to the univered bystander third in dress portion the lead headline in our Sports Thomas, some of his Explorer By dinner. for nished quick home is the guy,” Swinney said.

Friday. fi part been unidentifi this headed I duced be the sity’s Board of being He has section from “Venables set to Lee. With competes in Explorers into my driveFriday afterand attack. the fi nger. witness “I’d told him I was going to try Sure enough, Seneca Trustees for ap- the time I pulled led the named Clemson DC,” to “VenChildress competition. with lynching Another she saw Cobb I attended the news conferto make a decision by Tuesday way, Twitter was rife with news noon He also proval. To my charged ables on Clemson deal: ‘Nothing statewide exercise. denied reports, confi rmedgun at the night, and I knew … so I called outstandknowledge, that Venables had parole violation.ence. ed a fi nal either way.’” this particular to unrelatedPrint journalism is a tough holding and remember him up and he said he wanted ours and others, he had acceptarrest has an was news when Haney ON THE for his And if you read The Journal Gabrial these days, however. job to multiple Oklahoma location leave. it.” the do ed business warrant it was to that reported ing we morning, ghters agency. him on Thursday BEAT | a sound asking eca fi refi the 24-hour news cycle, Venables, 41, has been a fullnews outlets.

With County Lee. heard from another fi rst on UpstateToour story: Venables was set to Oconee and She then and Kieran team took and fi nas a fi reSoon, media on the Clemson time defensive coach at the FBS the boom are in-of Internet media However, rs also day.com. But be hired pending the trustees’ The Senecamain event she describedsaw a man withthe advent of TwitSTEVEN level the last 16 years. All 16 of side were also disputing Venespecially investigato speaking while being the and approval, although he had dequick dress in ter, any cracker place in report can be rendered those teams have played in a ables’ hire, saying everybody reasons. in the BRADLEY terested for other fi rst is one lly, LauSTAFF the hand.had been nied that was the case. to minutes of its shot in ished thirdn. Additiona only feTHE JOURNAL bowl game, including eight BCS from the Board of Trustees worthless who the Whitner he is believed within thing, being indeed was that man And can what The target Seneca’s honors competitio bowls and four for the national chair to the athletic director publication. a May 18 Imagine They say — A group intended that story as we went to press. By right is what really matters. in BEACH Cobb’s ren Lipscomb, won top ors in the half-dozen hours r. title. His teams have fi nished had disputed that (A) a contract happenTrailer have witnessed MYRTLE Fire Explorers Standard operating procedure the time I arrived home just competito was in Whittle been told investigat male Explorer, among so between a newspaper gothe top 10 of both major polls in had been forwarded to the orQuinton n shooting left Cobb had s to be best female after midnight, now the wee in such a situation is to write of six Seneca of events competitioCarohe and as the dead.and readers actua recent 10 of his 16 seasons. board and (B) Venables even themselve 24,press Park that ing to and drinking in a series perhours of Thursday morning, the bare bones of the story as proved in the state at South out The Explorer Thomas, six talking also eyes on it. laying e. had an official offer. pulled ally “Woo” competed their overall which featured of the annual quickly as possible, publish it the best safety turned Conferenc Wednesday evening n that when Cobb shot at him. part the tested shooting, SEE VENABLES, PAGE B5 transpired and Wednesday state.

As What ghter The that and man to SEE STORY, PAGE B5 timing police competitio across the online — our site has a pay wall the gun lina Firefi condi-example. to late Wednesday night, it was a perfect also told from sent another , Jaron formance, . teams so only subscribers can read the

by Senin critical were Witnesses Holbrooks outsidethe word that received Wejust hospital awareness was guided two men Atticus , Stephen Mcthat the Alan where he The team tion, occurred about something trailer, Livingston Lipscomb, 20 years talking Whitner’sliving with his Childress Coy, Lauren that happenedCobb fi red been and Kris had when Thomas earlier girlfriend. and neighbors at the man. who was Witnessesthat Whitner of a The man to press that. speculatedbeen a target was way to do

BY LAKE MORRIS shot declined up, on is one that went may have Still, Cobb sive-minded squad than scheme ERIC SPROTT THE JOURNAL | UP NEXT | charges. Tuesday on compensatichallenge to catch BYDametriose robbery a in recent years under arrested It will be but this is a long-termsaid.

JOURNAL opened of attempted bad, prompting THE fi rst-year coach Brian t,” Sams said is a priority. and Cathy allegedly Who: vs. Georgia Tech two counts the two shots SENECA — The last Moss to professors to Warner commitmen for Gregory, and the chalDori Helmsthe When: 2:30 murder at It’s gettime the West-Oak High — According Provost spokesfire. in CLEMSON of SIBLEY lenge for the Tigers this witnesses the now sits p.m. today he fi red. faces charges in School boys’ basketball

BY JESSICA onsame old Multiple issue is to be the Sams, Clemson’s ting Clemson across the afternoon will be getting speaking the wage , ClemHe also of a weapon THE JOURNAL Where: team faced Seneca, it won to for the the park, woman, university’s detired 40th percentile anonymity out to a strong start. it comes of story FCA Christthe Littlejohn possession n of a viowhen Foothills of the public team, a near20 in condition part basketball sonthe nation surviving top Though it’s often ng employees.

— DespiteClemson the commissio Coliseum mas Tournament. and possession said that sire to attain the Tigers are doing and compensatisaid that simply CLEMSON close games that come crisis, status.

Shane Womack, lent crime by a felon.

Friday, the squads budget its efforts fend off what TV: WLOS-TV to involved Warner for victim, university is only their best were down to the wire, especrippling is revamping improve enough met again of a fi rearmmultiple 13 under“A university to outside and Whitner isn’t good competitive. would be some cially in its last three University salaries Cobb has s, including as its faculty, with region altercationfrustration.

Radio: WCCP 104.9 FM which at the far certain in anstandable as good to remain and games, Brownell said the trailer to raise students, efforts.

Moss standings on conviction burglary Clemson 1-3 who have (9-9, Whitner’s staff and of the four when Tigers Thepark Road problem for Clemson is its recruiting only those ities or PAGE A5 . unitcalls having lost two straight the fi rst-degree the line, and his in our 2020 close had end of is why one playSEE CLEMSON, ACC) have Since 2008, responsibil behind priorities last seven, that it’s constantly and reward at Oconee drug possession West-Oak received extra cameinfrom in jail their last three and six of their strategic attract, retain ofre. each fi ing from behind. taken on promoted have Center He was to at the edged the competitive opened but the victories including an embarrassand Facand outings, Map is Detention Providing The Tigers’ 76-73 loss have been on increases, Warner was arrested County Bobcats 51-46. y. ing 70-38 home loss at Moss been top people. exactlywith haven’t yet compensati President Dan at Miami on Wednesday and charged on Wednesda “At this home Thursday to No. had not tenured scene forthcoming, as they’ve ulty Senate salaries for seemed to be a bit of an His bond point in the 15 Virginia, the time 12 witnessed murder. a combined fallen bywho said raising anomaly as they led late in been set. region, everyappears to be right for Whitner, College, ed the scene points to flBoston 973-6684 the second half, but they one knows killing, om | (864) Clemson to capture its theDuke and Miami. arrived, perhaps their andrew@dailyjm.c police what everythe com- first win since a Jan. 7 tri- did suffer before GeorgiaofTech Withbecause greatest defensive letdown or one else is goumph over Florida State. perhaps today (2:30 ing to town g warrants of the season by allowing ing to do. The safety.

Georgia Tech was just favor outstandin p.m., WLOS-13), his ownClemson group a the Hurricanes to shoot fear oflookingoftoresurfackey is doing 1-of-15 from three-point did the for break projects will be nearly 50 percent from the chairman, g certain is suspected what you do as well as He losing range — good for 6.7 two weeks three-game its first list. price field in the second half. in by eliminatin in Seneca with a percent — and shot 29.2 you can and preventing ing four-page queswhile took part season of thehe skidwhen projects but that “That’s been the probCorbeil from the on percent from the field work to and up, ago, other teams from doing be knowing how close it is For instance,a fi re truck rather lem is most of the time, assault.anheld on dif- overall against the Cavacapital tag of $250,000there won’t the what they do,” West-Oak entirely having he would in bebeing to from oritize and send mean playing being we’re tioned He is liers while being out-redoesn’t choose from. unique coach Bobby Norizsan bond. because ferent situation. projects, the comto surety hind, and we’ve got to get the list group focus on to 45-22 as well. plenty $25,000 said. “Those are two staff handed Capital “This is the most 973-6684 bounded those recommen GALARZA two stops and two scores have the significant impact County to County Regardless, Tigers five-year has a teams playing as hard as so far om | (864)

BY CARLOS important game dations a draft to finish out a game,” items of that y. andrew@dailyjm.c THE JOURNAL mittee coach Brad Brownell rethey could tonight.

ANNEMARIE JACQUES | FOR THE JOURNAL ent Plan in our season,” Clemson totaling Council. said. “It would the communit CounImprovem tal wish list mains wary of the Yellow Brownell “It just came down to (10) drives to the The ordinance PAGE A5 senior Tanner Smith to be in the other nice the be LIST, West-Oak High School’s Blake Maness come A — Oconee will who departmen $84 million. Scott Jackets, who would get a couple SEE WISH win over Seneeca on that created, which said. “We have a good opWALHALLProjects Advisory situation, and some of the basket during the Warriors’ 51-46 more thanAdministrator’s vice in desperate for a victory bounces, and we were another committee fi rst portunity to get another situations we need to play ty’s Capital has taken Friday night in Seneca.

County the in their own right. fortunate enough to get the committee met for month, win in the ACC at home.

Committee ning its mission. better earlier in the game.

Moulder, Paul “We’re going to play a Corbeil them.” defi Seneca would tie later time last group’s With that being said, we “There’s a couple of stab at right wing. After SeneChairman Georgia Tech team that’s And just like last time, of the on a Barmore three, but members also need to make sure Committee things that have caused ca’s Zay Zay Barmore hit the scope probably a little bit like remindedtheir purpose West-Oak sophomore limits the Warriors hit key foul we realize we’re one or Corbeil us problems, and it’s been layup, Shorter again y that us, a little angry after priKwon Shorter came up big. a shots to squeak out the two possessions away Wednesda score and that way for most of the dribbled the ball up the their last games, and I’m Beginning the fourth win. | INFO | from being a really good is to review, season, and we’ve just got (864) 882-2375 floor and hit another sure both teams will be quarter with Seneca up 6397 team this year.” to keep grinding.”

DELIVERY (864) 882three, giving West-Oak very hungry to play well 38-37, Shorter sunk a SEE WEST-OAK, PAGE B5 A4 And with the Yellow (864) 882-2375 NEWS the lead. and fi nd a win,” he said. three-pointer from the | INSIDE | C4 OPINION Jackets (8-10, 1-3) coming (864) 973-6305 CLASSIFIEDS eric@dailyjm.com | (864) 882-2385 D1 Tech is a more defenA2 COMICS into Littlejohn Coliseum ADVERTISING C5 STOCKS A5 CALENDAR D2 PUZZLES C2 WORLD CLASSIFIEDS C4 OBITUARIES COLUMNISTS

BY ANDREW

MOORE

THE JOURNAL

— A 38-yearSENECA man was in old Seneca y after ns jail Wednesda recollectio of a 20-yearold incident to led him

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58 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

nity near the Chattooga River in Northwestern Oconee County.

■ newry Newry is an unincorporated textile mill village in Oconee County, just off the shores of Lake Keowee. Newry is on the National Register of Historic Places as a district, known for its historic mill and mill village.

■ salem 5-A Park Avenue Salem, SC 29676 864.944.2819 The small town of Salem is located just off the beautiful Scenic Highway 11 in Oconee and is a gateway to both the Blue Ridge Mountains and the lakes of Jocassee and Keowee. Salem’s town charter was first approved in 1907, with a new charter approved in 1952. Originally a lumber town with six sawmills, Salem became an agricultural town, latching onto cotton. Its small “official” population of under 200 belies its rich history and what today is considered to be a haven for fantastic home sites, outdoor activities and mountain adventures. Within just minutes of the town of Salem are the famous Cliffs at Keowee Falls, Cliffs Vineyards, the Reserve at Keowee and Keowee Key, each with their renowned signature golf courses.

wealth of attractions for visitors.

The Ram Cat Alley Historic District is a collection of 21 commercial buildings in the downtown area of the city. The district is centered on Ram Cat Alley and includes properties on North Townville Street. These contributing properties represent the development of the downtown area as the center of commerce in Seneca and the surrounding area from 1887 until the mid-1960s. As the state built a “by-pass” around the historic center of town, the community adjusted and continues to develop its charm around quaint shops, art galleries and antique center.

In recent years the

Westminster United Methodist “The Little Church With The Big Heart” Rev. Ed Mainous 925 East Main Street, Westminster 864.647.5226 www.westumc.org Sunday School - 9:45 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 11:00 a.m.

■ Seneca 21 East North First Street, PO Box 4773 Seneca, SC 29679 864.885.2700 Originally called “Seneca City,” this, the largest city in Oconee County, was founded in 1873 at the point where two railroad lines connecting Atlanta and Charlotte crossed.

Earlier, a Native American village named Esseneca was settled by the Cherokee near present-day Clemson University. The city’s unique blend of railroad history, Indian heritage and commercial leadership provides a Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 59

city has scheduled a number of downtown festivals that have attracted thousands of visitors to the community. For information on specific sites and scheduled events, visit www.seneca.sc.us/content/view/413/102.

■ walhalla N Broad Street, Walhalla, SC 29691 864.638.4345 Walhalla is the county seat of Oconee County.

It began as a settlement for German immigrants, and its name means “Garden of the Gods.”

The town of Walhalla was founded in the 1850s by the German Settlement Society.

The Blue Ridge Railroad Company was chartered in 1852 to build a railroad to West Union near Walhalla and extend it over the mountains to Georgia and Tennessee. Work was begun on the route that passes through the Andrew Pickens District in 1853. The proposed railroad failed in 1859 for financial reasons and was never completed. Today the town is a popular antiquing destination with an estimated population of just over 3800. It is home to the famed “Oktoberfest.”

■ westminster 100 Windsor Street P. O. Box 399, Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.3202

60 • Visitors Guide

www.westminstersc.com/index.html The City of Westminster is in the foothills of the beautiful Appalachian Mountians. With a diversified economic base, ranging from modern industry to the quaint shops along Old Main Street, and surrounded by rivers, lakes, forests, mountains and golf courses, Westminster offers a wide variety of occupational and recreational opportunities. A treasure trove of wonderful architecture, Westminster boasts more than one hundred homes that are unique to the late 1800’s and turnof-the-century. Its residential and business historical districts offer a visual smorgasbord for the sightseer.

It boasts more than one hundred homes unique to the late 1800’s and turn-ofthe-century — 90 percent of them occupied and maintained with great diligence and pride. Old Main Street, with its unique shops and hometown atmosphere, has benefited from an influx of private investment to restore and renovate most of its buildings.

■ west union West Union is a small town located in between Seneca and Walhalla which today hosts several retail and antique establishments, attracting shoppers from across the county. In 1880 West Union was first incorporated after being founded by recognized temperance advocate Joseph Grisham. www.SCMountainLakes.com

Westminster It’s Worth The Drive. . .

Beginning the Tuesday following Labor Day and running through the next weekend, the South Carolina Apple Festival celebrates the beginning of apple harvest season in Oconee County, the largest apple-producing area in the state. The annual festival has drawn thousands of visitors to the Westminster area since its September 4 - 8 first appearance in 1961.

In July 1961, a group of interested citizens gathered to discuss the beginning of the South Carolina Apple Festival. The proposal was enthusiastically and unanimously received and plans for the first festival were made.

The friendly folks in Westminster are eager to show the hospitality of Oconee County and treat all visitors as special guests. The festival has changed in many ways during the years, but the warmth and hospitality shown has remained unchanged.

Whether you enjoy whitewater rafting, shopping for arts and crafts, browsing antique shops, attending a world championship rodeo or just kicking back and listening to live musical entertainment, the Apple Festival offers something for everyone in the family. Most of the events are free and are planned with the entire family in mind.

SOUTH CAROLINA

’12

Historic Main Street • Westminster, SC • 864.647.5316

Comes to Westminster April 20 & 21, 2012

Annual festivals in Oconee County

Seneca Fest Downtown Seneca, Norton Tompson Park 864-723-3910 rhjohnson@seneca.sc.us The City of Seneca will be hosting the 6th Annual Seneca Fest in downtown Seneca May 24-26. Attractions include: a live free concert by the Little River Band at 8 p.m. on Saturday; 5k run walk; art displays; crafters; a classic car cruise-in; train rides; and helicopter rides. The Oconee Foundation of Oconee County will also hold its sixth barbeque cook-off as part of the event.

Mayberry Comes to Westminster Downtown Westminster (864) 638-7426 www.jneg.org/mctw/mctw/Welcome.html When Mayberry comes to Westminister on April 20-21 you will see tribute artists, music venues, Mayberry parades, a Miss and Mrs. Mayberry Contest, a trivia contest, food vendors, Mayberry merchandise, a car and tractor show, arts & crafts and more!

Chattooga River Festival Clayton, GA. and Long Creek, SC http://chattoogariverfestival.com/ There will be dueling banjos, a banjo boo-

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ture the classic sounds of Bobby Rydell, as well as Jimmy Clanton and Jim Quick and Coastline. The Saturday charity motorcycle ride helps the festival raise thousands of dollars for local charities. Sponsored by Blue Ridge Electric Co-op.

gie and a makeshift boat race among other events at the first festival of its kind June 22-24 in Clayton, Ga. and Long Creek, SC. Other events will include live music on two stages, hiking, rafting and guided tours. Art exhibits and even a showing of the movie “Deliverance” at the Tiger Drive-in.

Hillbilly Days Downtown Mountain Rest, SC 29664 864.638.1967 One of the oldest July 4th festivals in the state of South Carolina: festival includes clogging, square dancing, country and bluegrass music, crafts and food each July.

Fun In The Sun Festival West Union, SC 864- 710-9613 This new event will be held from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, June 9.

Family event and live music will be taking place down town. There will also be lots of food and vendors, games and exhibits for children of all ages including a marshmallow-eating contest.

Blue Ridge Fest 734 W. Main Street, Pickens, SC 800.240.3400 www.blueridge.coop/blueridgefest/ This annual festival is popular throughout the region. This year’s May 11-12 event will begin with a Beach Night Cruise-in that will brings hundreds of restored classic automobiles to the event and will fea-

Seneca’s newest bakery and café serving fresh-made breads, pastries, regionally inspired sandwiches, soups, salads and various other baked goods.

7am-4pm | Wednesday-Saturday 864.882.3434 12019A N. Radio Station Road Seneca, SC 29678 Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 63

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history comes to life Bethel Presbyterian Church (Map - POI 3) 580 Bethel Church Rd., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.638.0810 Founded in 1805 by General Andrew Pickens, Bethel Presbyterian is the oldest church in continuous use in Oconee County. Outside is a cemetery that dates to the founding of the church.

Blue Ridge Field (Map - POI 5) Holland Ave., Seneca, SC 29678 864.885.2700 • www.blueridgefield.org Once the site of the segregated AfricanAmerican Blue Ridge High School football field, Blue Ridge Field today memorializes the rich history of African-American education in Oconee County from the 1800s to 1969. The football field is now the site of a heritage park that, upon completion, will include history kiosks, a walking track, community gardens, picnic shelters, and a recreational field.

Historic Ballenger House (Map - POI 11) 212 East South Third St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.7162 www.historicballengerhouse.com A community landmark, the Ballenger House (circa 1925) is a beautiful red brick home built in the foursquare style and located in the heart of Historic Downtown Seneca.

Used as the primary residence of the Ballenger family until 1980, the home was deeded to the Seneca Woman’s Club. The club origiExperience Oconee, South Carolina

nated in 1896 and still meets today, making it the oldest club in the county.

Chattooga Town (Map - POI 7) The Chattooga River was named after the historic Cherokee town of Chattooga. The town was situated in bottomlands along the river from the late 16th to the early 18th centuries. Chattooga Town is protected by the Forest Service as a significant historic site. Located on Hwy. 28 northwest of Walhalla.

Historic Westminster Depot (Map - POI 12) Main Street, Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.5316 Recently restored, the depot is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Fort Hill Museum, Clemson University (Map - POI 8)

846.656.2475 Fort Hill was the home of John C. Calhoun, a South Carolina19th century statesman, from 1825 until his death in 1850. The antebellum plantation home, office and kitchen are furnished mostly with family artifacts.

Lunney House Museum (Map - POI 15) 211 West South First St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.4811 Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this California style bungalow was built in 1909 by Dr. and Mrs. W.J. Lunney.

Visitors Guide • 65

Its distinctive arts and crafts architecture extends to include a two-story carriage house and a “two-seater” outhouse.

Oconee Heritage Center (Map - POI 19) 199 South Tugaloo St., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.638.2224 www.oconeeheritagecenter.org The Oconee Heritage Center is housed in the historic Tobacco Warehouse of Walhalla.

The museum houses a Depression-era tenant farmer’s house, a virtual replica of Stumphouse Tunnel, and a 250-year-old dugout canoe. The Center’s collections are arranged into different historical eras.

Museum of the Cherokee (Map – POI 28) Located between the Oconee Heritage Center and the Keowee Courier Walhalla, SC 29691 This new museum is a place where the Cherokee part of Oconee’s history is offered in detail and is an attractive destination for those with specific interests in that topic. A wide variety of artifacts has been assembled and the story of the Cherokee before the Trail of Tears is told as it could only be told in the place the Cherokee called home.

Places, this church/meeting house is the only building still standing on the site where the town of Pickens Courthouse was established in 1828. The adjacent cemetery has over 200 graves dating back to 1790.

Oscar Wiggington Scenic Overlook (Map - POI 21)

Named for a former mayor of Salem and located approximately 25 miles north of Walhalla, the Oscar Wiggington Scenic Overlook offers a spectacular view of northeastern Oconee and northwestern Pickens counties.

Located on State Highway 413 north of Walhalla.

Russell Farmstead (Map - POI 8) The Russell farmstead was a busy Appalachian farm, stagecoach stop, and inn in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The farm is located on the road and former stagecoach route between Walhalla and Highlands. From Walhalla, SC, follow SC Highway 28 north to the left fork. The farmstead is on the left before the bridge.

Stumphouse Tunnel at Issaqueena Falls (Map - Parks 14)

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 and the troops left 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.

Walhalla, SC 29691 864.888.1488 A new railroad over the Appalachians was proposed to connect the port city of Charleston first with Knoxville and later Cincinnati. Rather than go over or around the mountains in this area it was decided to dig a tunnel. The 1600-footlong Stumphouse Tunnel was started in 1852 but the Civil War — and a lack of funds — brought construction to a halt. In 1951, Clemson University bought the tunnel and used it to cure the South’s first blue cheese. Not far from the “tunnel to nowhere” is Issaqueena Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state.

Old Pickens Presbyterian Church (Map - POI 20) SC Route 183, Salem, SC 29671 864.944.1303 www.oldpickens.org Listed on the National Register of Historic

Hagood Mill 138 Hagood Mill Road, Pickens, SC 29671 864.898.5963 This functioning 19th-century water-powered gristmill welcomes visitors to picnic and

Oconee Station State Historic Site (Map - Parks 12)

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hike on the 13-acre tract. Stone ground cornmeal and grits are always available.

Grounds are open daily during daylight hours. Tours and corn-grinding demonstrations are held the third Saturday of each month. Admission is free.

Ashtabula/Woodburn P.O. Box 444, Pendleton, SC 29670 864.646.7249, 800.862.1795 These two 1830 large clapboard mansions near Clemson were built by wealthy Lowcountry planters to enjoy the more healthful climate of the foothills. Each house is completely restored and authentically furnished.

Ashtabula is located three miles east of Pendleton on S.C. Highway 88. Ashtabula Historic Home is open for tours Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is minimal.

Woodburn is located eight miles north on U.S. Highway 76 from Interstate 85 exit 19B. The entrance road is at the corner of U.S. Highway 76 across from Tri-County Technical College. Immediately turn right onto History Lane. Look for signs. Open for tours on Sundays from 2 to 6 p.m. and Mondays and Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed November through March and on special holidays. Admission is minimal.

Retreat Rosenwald School 150 Pleasant Hill Circle, Westminster, SC 29793 Contact: Helen Rosemond-Saunders, 864.903.0547 The Retreat Rosenwald School, located just outside the city of Westminster, is a two-room schoolhouse that served rural African-American children from 1924 until 1950. It was partially funded by the national Rosenwald school building program. It was one of 10 Rosenwald schools in Oconee County. In September 2011 the school was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Points of Interest Walhalla State Fish Hatchery (Map - POI 10) 198 Fish Hatchery Road, Mountain Rest 864.638.2866 Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this is the only trout hatchery in South Carolina.

World of Energy (Map - POI 27) 7812 Rochester Highway, Seneca 800.777.1004 www.duke-energy.com/visitor-centers/ world-of-energy.asp You may never look at a light switch the same way again after a visit to Duke Power’s World of Energy. Located next to the Oconee Nuclear Station, the World of Energy’s offers an excellent opportunity to explore how electricity is generated. Bring a picnic and enjoy the view of Lake Keowee, and afterwards explore the nature trail and wander through the butterfly garden.

Bob Campbell Geology Museum (Map - POI 28)

103 Garden Trail, Clemson, SC 29634 864.656.4600 www.clemson.edu/geomuseum See mineral clusters and sparkling gemstones. Marvel at fossilized plants and animals once buried in layers of rock, and don’t miss the iron meteorites and minerals that glow in the dark or Smilodon the Saber-toothed Cat that once roamed what is now South Carolina. Open Thurs – Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Memorial Day to Labor Day also open Wed 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed University holidays. Admission.

Tamassee DAR School (Map - POI 29) Tamassee, SC 29686 864.944.1390 The school, founded in 1919 by the South Carolina Daughters of the American Revolution, was organized to provide a place to learn and a chance to develop the ideals of patriotism, citizenship and spiritual growth for children living in the isolation of northwestern South Carolina.

Open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointment preferred.

Visitors Guide • 67

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walhalla walking tour Walhalla is not only the county seat for Oconee County, but it is the hub of the county’s historical wheel. The city is home to several specialized museums and historic points, all of which can be accessed by a leisurely stroll. We invite you to park your car at the Earle House, home of the Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau. While you enjoy a cup of coffee and a snack, enjoy the local art and quilts that are displayed throughout the center. Then, spend an hour or two learning the rich heritage of Oconee County.

We recommend the following stops, which will bring you back to within a block of your beginning point.

1. Walhalla Civic Auditorium 2. St. John’s Lutheran Evangelical Church and Cemetery 3. Patriots Hall 4. Cherokee Museum 5. Oconee County Heritage Museum 6. Earle House 7. The Depot 8. Stroll through downtown

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Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 69

Imagination is a wonderful gift. With a

little imagination, we can travel without ever leaving home. But imagination needs to be

nourished with information and experience.

And that’s what the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor is all about.

Let’s Travel

The South Carolina National Heritage Corridor

As you travel, you’ll get experience - you’ll

experience the weather, land, the people and the places. You’ll hear different accents, eat

distinctive dishes and, if you seek them out, encounter old traditions. You’ll see things

that you share and things that are different.

They all come together to form the special

qualities of South Carolina heritage along the Heritage Corridor, offering plenty to nourish the imagination.

George McDaniel Director, Drayton Hall

www.sc-heritagecorridor.org

A Glimpse at the Corridor’s Upstate Region

Anderson Oconee Pickens

Arts and Culture

The arts scene of the South Carolina Mountain Lakes is a thriving one. Many visual artists are inspired by the bounty of nature and southern culture, as are performing artists. Visiting artists add to the lively entertainment, enriching the culture. tographs were chosen from the Bruce and Louise Matheson Bell collections showcased in Mrs. Bell’s book, “Seneca, Visions of Yesterday,” published in 2005.

Blue Ridge Arts Center

Bell Gallery (Map - POI 2) City of Seneca 221 E. North 1st St., Seneca, SC 29679 864.885.2700 www.seneca.sc.us The metal sculptures gracing the Gallery were gifts from Mrs. Bell and the “Friends of the Gallery.” The 30 framed historical pho-

Blue Ridge Arts Center (Map - POI 4) 111 E. South 2nd St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.2722 www.blueridgeartscenter.com The Blue Ridge Arts Council is housed in Seneca’s oldest remaining religious facility, the former Episcopal Church, built in 1882 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Brooks Center for Performing Arts at Clemson University (Map - POI 8) 864.656.7787 The center brings varied entertainment events to the area. The box office is open Mon – Fri. from 1–5 pm.

Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail The Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail is a self-guided tour to discover the quilt panels located within Oconee, Pickens, and Anderson counties. Begun in February 2010 with the first quilt hanging in Oconee, the goals of the project are to document history related to the history of quilting, quilters, and their craft. Part of the National Quilt Trail, began in 2001 in Ohio, the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail is associated with the 25 states in the United States and in Canada. The Trail celebrates the history and heirlooms of creativity born of necessity and recognized as an art form worldwide. For street addresses and GPS coordinates, look at www.upstateheritagequilttrail.com.

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

P.O. Box 333, Walhalla, SC 29691 864.723.6603 For more infomation: www.UpstateHeritageQuiltTrail.com

Visitors Guide • 71

Kudzu Kabin Designs (Map - POI 13) 1105 E. Main St., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.718.8864 Housed in a 100-year-old renovated barn, the Kudzu Kabin features a gallery of kudzuderived art and gifts and is home to the only known kudzu paper factory.

The mission of the Oconee Community Theatre, Inc. is to encourage and promote an interest in the performing arts in Upstate South Carolina, and Oconee County, by the production and presentation of plays, dramatic works, and performing arts.

South Carolina Botanical Garden

Earle House 105 W. S. Broad St., Walhalla, SC 29691 877-685-2537 www.scmountainlakes.com View the work of local artists, Native American crafts and quilt creations in the rooms of this historic Walhalla home that now serves as the offices of the Walhalla Chamber of Commerce and the Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors’ Bureau.

(Map - POI 8)

102 Garden Trail, Clemson, SC 29634 864.656.6205 www.clemson.edu/public/scbg/ The South Carolina Botanical Garden is a place “where nature and culture meet.” Beyond offering 295 acres of scenic trails and gardens, the SCBG is also home to local artists, musicians and sculptors.

The Artists’ Loft Co-Op (Map - POI 1) 121-B Townville St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.647.3555 The Farmhouse Gallery (Map - POI 10) 124 F E. Main St., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.718.7171 Visitors are welcome and appointments are appreciated. Artist Vivian Edwards’ working studio has become an art stop for the South Carolina Heritage Corridor.

Vivian Edwards (artist) — Farmhouse Gallery

Fran Hanson Discovery Center 101 Garden Trail, Clemson, SC 29634 864.656.3405 The Discovery Center, located in the S.C. Botanical Garden on the campus of Clemson University, is the visitor center for the S.C. Botanical Garden offers regional brochures and garden information. Featured exhibits by South Carolina artists rotate quarterly with a permanent collection by S.C. native Elizabeth B. Fuller. The Garden Discovery Room offers touch tables, microscopes and a reference library for nature and gardening enthusiasts.

Open Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. Closed Clemson University holidays.

Oconee Community Theatre (Map - POI 18) 8001 Utica St., Seneca, SC 29679 864.882.1910 www.oconeetheatre.org 72 • Visitors Guide

Walhalla Civic Auditorium (Map - POI 26) 101 E. North Broad St., Walhalla, SC 864.916.0130 www.walhallacivic.com Now hosting big Broadway shows and popular performers like Doc Watson and the Glenn Miller Orchestra, the Walhalla Civic Auditorium was once the humble stage of the Walhalla Graded School, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Walhalla Civic Auditorium

www.SCMountainLakes.com

Agricultural Tourism Chattooga Belle Farm (Map - POI 6) 454 Damascus Church Rd. Long Creek, SC 29658 864.647.9768 www.chattoogabellefarm.com Chattooga Belle Farm is a 138acre working farm set among a spectacular canvas of rolling hills and mountain views.

Lucky Acres Farm (Map - POI 14) 1024 Milford Rd., Townville, SC 29689 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.

McPhail Angus Farm (Map - POI 16) 320 Coyote Ln., Seneca, SC 29678 The McPhail Angus Farm has been a locally significant farm for more than one hundred years. It was established in 1902

by John Augustus McPhail (1876-1961) and later expanded by his son Walter Hoolu McPhail (1901-1979).

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

New Hope Farm & Gardens, LLC (Map - POI 17)

343 Flat Rock Rd. Walhalla, SC 29691 864.718.8365 Seasonal. New Hope Farm and Gardens is a working farm where you can experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a family run farm.

Providing learning opportunities to realize the benefits of homesteading.

Happy Berry Farm 510 Gap Hill Rd. Six Mile, SC 29682 864.868.2946, 864.350.9345 Email: ContactUs@TheHappyBerry.com The Happy Berry Inc. is located on the eastern shore of Lake Keowee in Pickens County, South Carolina. It is a pick-your-own small fruit farm with blackberries, blueberries, figs and elderberries available in-season. The season is from June 1 to Early September in most years. Pre-picked berries are available on farm.

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Sports & Recreation Oconee offers the perfect paradise for outdoor recreation and sporting enthusiasts! Whether you’re are a golfer, a hiker, biker, boater or whitewater rafter you will

Camping at Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area

74 • Visitors Guide

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 also Park Lodging on page 16). many sport and recreational activities will be at your fingertips. Nearby Clemson University further enhances the sporting opportunities and 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 of the area’s disc golf courses on their website, www.scdgo.net.

The rugged terrain of the Blue Ridge Mountains offers the perfect setting for many recreational 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. www.SCMountainLakes.com

■ FISHING TOURNAMENTS From the BassMaster Classic to the FLW Outdoors Tour, Oconee is host to some of America’s most prestigious fishing tournaments. The waters of Hartwell, Keowee, and Jocassee offer more than 90,000 acres of fishing opportunities and sport fishing tournaments, local, regional, and national are offered on these lakes. For additional information on fishing tournaments, contact the Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau at 877.685.2537, or Oconee Parks, Recreation and Tourism at 864.888.1488.

■ CYCLING The foothills and by-ways of the Blue Ridge Mountains provide the perfect setting for recreational bike users — whether hitting the trails on the mountain bike or perusing Oconee’s back roads on road bike. In fact, the terrain is so terrific that it serves as training grounds for many professional road biking teams from across the region and nation.

The mountains, hillsides, rivers and quaint towns make for a “tour-de-oconee” spectacular ride. No matter what your skill level, there’s a scenic ride for you!

Issaqueenna’s Last Ride is an annual ride that features several distance rides to over an ascent of 3,000 feet above sea level, benefitting Safe Harbor. Based at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Walhalla. www.ilrsc.com.

Call 864.380.3976.

■ DIXIE LEAGUE WORLD SERIES www.dixieboysworldseries.com 864.885.2709

visit www.iprarodeo.com, or contact the Westminster Chamber at 864.647.5316.

■ SAILING The waters of lakes Keowee, Jocassee, and Hartwell lend themselves to great sailing competitions at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Two sail clubs in the Upstate offer resources for sailboaters: Keowee Sailing Club 864.288.0999 www.keoweesailingclub.com Western Carolina Sailing Club 864.226.6561 www.wcsc-sailing.org ■ SHAVER RECREATION COMPLEX W. South 4th St., Seneca, SC 29678 864.885.2709 The T.W. “Shorty” Shaver complex is a 33-acre complex, home to the Seneca Recreation Department and is a hub for sports tourist. With 7 recreation fields, two gyms, walking trails, a greenway trail, climbing wall and the Seneca disc golf course, there is no shortage of available programs.

■ CLEMSON UNIVERSITY (Map – POI 8) Enjoy the thrill of major university sports, cultural events and the life-long 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.

■ RODEO The Golden Corner is host to a number of rodeo events. For additional information, Experience Oconee, South Carolina

■ CLEMSON UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS Call 1-800-CLEMSON for schedules and tickets. Watch the Clemson Tigers top rated Visitors Guide • 75

football, basketball, and baseball teams participate in NCAA and ACC sports. Whether you enjoy football on fall afternoons at Clemson Memorial Stadium — better known as Death Valley — or basketball at Littlejohn Stadium, the Clemson Tigers always offer sports excitement.

Foxwood Hills Country Club (Map - Golf 5) 300 Brighton Dr., Westminster, SC 29693 864.647.9503 This is a tough course because the fairways are extremely narrow. There is an additional set of men’s tees that can be used when playing an 18 hole round.

■ T. ED GARRISON ARENA 1101 W. Queen St., Pendleton, SC 29670 864.646.2717 The Garrison Arena is host to a number of popular rodeo and livestock shows and is one of the premier livestock showplace facilities in the South.

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.

■ Golf Blue Ridge Golf Center (Map - Golf 1) 2499 Blue Ridge Blvd., Walhalla, SC 29691 864.882.7949 This short and scenic “pitch and putt” course was built on a Christmas tree farm.

Most of the fairways are tree lined. The greens vary between flat and undulating.

Plus water hazards (a creek and a pond) come into play on four holes. Upon request, carts are only made available for persons with disabilities.

Chickasaw Point Country Club (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 narrow fairways are defined by a standard cut of rough. The Trails is a lovely 18-hole, par-72 course with four sets of tees providing enjoyable play for all skill levels.

Each hole is separated from the other, giving players the sense of being alone on the course as they enjoy the ever-changing beauty of The Trails.

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 864.638.0000 The scenic countryside course offers beautiful views of the mountains. It features several hilly fairways. Water hazards come into play on several holes.

Keowee Key Golf & Country Club (Map - Golf 6)

1 Country Club Dr., Salem, SC 864.944.2222 This course, located in the foothills, is part of a private residential community.

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 10 times. The fairways are well bunkered, and the small greens are undulating.

76 • Visitors Guide

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Count on The Journal to be your information source. In print or online, our publications cover life in the Upstate and all you need to know for your busy lifestyle.

We’re here, 24/7, for you!

210 W. N. 1st Street | Seneca, SC 29678 | phone: 864.882.2375 | fax: 864. 882.2381

■ Disc Golf Oconee County is a disc golfers mecca. With more disc golf courses, 3-18 Hole & 1-9 Hole, than any other county in South Carolina, if you feel the need to go disc golfing, Oconee is the place to do it. Below is a list of the current and planned disc golf courses here in Oconee County, SC. For more infomation on Greater Oconee Disc Golf go to www.godgc.com Seneca (Map - Disc Golf 3) Shaver Recreation Complex was established in 2004. It’s an 18-hole course with nice elevation changes and tight, wooded fairways. This course hosts several tournaments a year including the Spring Sling, SC Doubles Championship and the Golden Corner Classic. Seven holes have multiple pin placements. 864.885.2709 Walhalla (Map - Disc Golf 4) Sertoma Field was established in 2008. It’s a short 18-hole course that wraps around a large field. The course makes its way into and out of the woods several times and a creek with several small waterfalls comes into play on five holes. Sertoma Field hosted two tournaments this past year. The first being the SC StateJuniors Championship and the second being the first day of the SC Doubles Championship.

864.638.2727.

Clemson (Map - Disc Golf 5) University Beach was established in 2009.

While it has a Clemson address, the course is located on the Oconee County side of Lake Hartwell, just a few minutes from downtown Clemson and the University. It’s the longest course in Oconee County with several holes being over 500 feet from the long tees. Most holes have multiple tees that are marked with flags. 275 YMCA Cir, Seneca - 864.654.9622 78 • Visitors Guide

Tamassee DAR School (Map - Disc Golf 2)

Established in 2008. It’s a short 9-hole course. While it’s on school property, the course is open for public play. It’s in a over-grown field along the edge of some woods. 864.944.1390 Long Creek (Map - POI 7) Chattooga Belle Farm — The 18-hole disc golf course features amazing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains with major elevation changes and water hazards. The holes are set throughout the farm and vineyard. The course is open to the public and cost is $3/ game or $25/annual pass, unlimited games. 864.647.9768 Chau Ram Park (Map - Park 2) Coming Soon

Carolina Plumbing Supply Company

“More than just a plumbing store” Come visit our new 4000 sq. ft. sales showroom, parts counter, and warehouse.

Residential & Commercial products available!

Stop in or call our team today!

15690 Wells Highway, Seneca, SC 29678 Hours: Display Showroom Mon-Fri 8AM to 5PM Parts Counter Mon-Fri 7AM to 5PM Phone (864)888 3030 • Fax

(864) 888-8030

www.SCMountainLakes.com

The Oconee Alliance began in 2006 to focus on positive change and growth of the community through citizen involvment.

Caring Citizens Working Together To Improve Life In Our Community

Celebrating 7 Years!

2006-2012 Making Oconee County A Better Place To Live, Work, Play And Visit THE NEXT STEP IS YOURS…

If you want to be involved, contact Jim Gadd at jgadd@oconeesc.com, or 864/718.1077.

Now In A Central Location To Serve You! 528 Hwy 123 Bypass Suite G • Seneca, SC 29678 (Next to Copper River)

horseback riding Horses give people of all ages a way to enjoy the outdoors, reasons to travel to different destinations and a chance to meet people with a similar passion.

For many folks, there is nothing more enjoyable than to climb aboard a favorite equine friend, set out on a relaxing trail ride and leave their cares behind. Crisp, cool air and newly exposed views of the mountains and lakes through the colorful trees are a few of the rewards a rider experiences in the Carolinas during the fall of the year.

So, get your bluejeans and your boots on and get ready to go horseback riding! Whether you want to rent a horse for an hour or a day, take a horse vacation with your horse or go somewhere new and include a horseback ride in your next family trip.

The possibilities are endless in the Upstate.

Sumter National Forest, Andrew Pickens Ranger District Rocky Gap/Willis Knob Horse Trail Whetstone Base Camp 864.638.9568 www.fs.fed.us/r8/fms/ forest/about/ This 28-mile trail crosses the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River corridor, linking the South Carolina side (Rocky Gap) with the Georgia side (Willis Knob). The Rocky Gap trail measures 12.5 miles with several loops. Willis Knob consists of one 15-mile loop. Several access points allow for trips of various lengths.

A brochure detailing the trail, river fords, and rules and regulations is available at the Andrew Pickens district office.

Fieldstone Farm Bed & Breakfast 640 Fieldstone Farm Road Westminster, SC 29693 864.882.5651www.fieldstonefarminn.com Horse lovers of all ages can enjoy trail riding or taking a wagon ride around the farm. Beginners can enjoy learning the basics 80 • Visitors Guide

For more great horseback experience go to: South Carolina Upstate Equine Council www.scupstateequine.org

and trail riding around the farm, while more experienced riders may enjoy a remote ride in the Sumter National Forest. Our Missouri Fox Trotters are always ready to take you on an adventure and our shire drafts love to pull the wagonette and buckboard to earn their keep.

Remote trail ride includes sack lunch and drinks and is a full day event. Call us for all your family events, spring flings and harvest hay days.

The Whitewater Equestrian Center 6420 Whitewater Rd, Sapphire, NC 28774 828.966.9646 Open Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

(Reservations required) The Whitewater Equestrian Center has horses that are seasoned veterans of the trail and will give a novice rider a delightful experience.

The ride is about an hour and goes to the top of a mountain that boasts a panoramic view of Lakes Jocasee and Keowee. It’s something the whole family can do together and after the trail ride there is a gem mine and gift shop in which to find treasures. Whitewater Equestrian Center is located one and a half miles past White Water Falls on Hwy 130.

Rocky Gap/Willis Knob Horse Trails (Map – Hiking 6)

The Rocky Gap Trail in South Carolina and the 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 Chattoooga Wild and Scenic River corridor. The Whetstone Horse Camp in South Carolina serves as a base camp for many users of both trails. There is a fee for the Whetstone Horse Camp. Earls Ford road is very close to Whetstone Horse Camp and provides a parking area, and a hiking access trail to the Chattooga River. www.SCMountainLakes.com

events ■ APRIL April 6-8 & 13-15: Oconee Community Theater presents, A Bad Year for Tomatoes.

Fed up with the demands of her acting career, the famous Myra Marlowe leases a house in the tiny New England hamlet of Beaver Haven

and settles down to write her autobiography, but dealing with her nosy neighbors is a pesky matter. 864-882-7700 April 10: Clemson University Jazz Ensemble, 8 p.m., Brooks Center April 10: First Tuesday Program at Duke World of Energy asks: Where on earth is Mr. Carlos Luria-CIA? 10 a.m.

Thru April 11: School District of Oconee County student show at Blue Ridge Arts Council, Seneca.

April 14: Oconee Medical Center holds Go the Extra Mile for Babies 5K for the March of Dimes beginning at Trinity Baptist Church.

April 16-22: Proof at the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts at Clemson University. Set on the campus of the University of Chicago, “PROOF” revolves around Catherine, who begins a relationship with one of her father’s former graduate students who discovers (in her father’s study) a proof of “a mathematical theorem about prime numbers” that experts thought could not be accomplished. 8 p.m. each evening, 3 p.m. April 22 matinee.

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 81

April 17: Clemson University Concert Band & CU Symphonic Band, 8 p.m., Brooks Center April 19: Clemson University Symphony Orchestra , 8 p.m., Brooks Center April 19-22: Blues Festival. Opening VIP Concert will be at The Arts Center of Clemson.

Special Concert will be at Littlejohn Community Center.

Local, state and regional Blues artists performing throughout the area Blues Expo, art exhibit and film screenings.

For more information, call Vince Jackson at (864) 6500585.

Much Fooling Around” and many others. 8 p.m.

■ MAY

May 4: Artie Shaw’s big band is one of the most swinging around. Under the direction of Matt Kosa, the 17-piece Orchestra continues to please the full spectrum: from the fans of yesteryear to the new jazz fans who want to embody the excitement of swing; Walhalla Civic Auditorium; (864) 6385277. 8 p.m.

May 5: Lunney House Museum in Seneca holds Annual Lunney Derby, 5:308:30. 864.882.4811

April 21: Clemson Universitiy Dept. of Performing Arts POPS April 21: Walhalla Civic Mayberry Comes to Westminster Auditorium hosts Seldom Scene. Come hear bluegrass classics such as “Lay Down Sally,‘ “Old Train,” “Walk Through The World With Me,” and “From This Moment On.” 8 p.m.

May 11-12: Blue Ridge Fest, 734 W. Main Street, Pickens, SC. This year’s event will begin with a Beach Night Cruise-in that will brings

April 20 – 21: Mayberry Comes to Westminster. Event features tribute artists, music venues, Mayberry parades, a Miss and Mrs. Mayberry Contest, a trivia contest, food vendors, Mayberry merchandise, a car and tractor show, arts & crafts and more! www.jneg.org/mctw/mctw/Welcome.html April 24: Clemson University Singers & CU Clees; Brooks Center; 8 p.m.

April 27: Clemson University Percussion ensemble & CU Steel Band; Brooks Center; 8 p.m.

April 28: Walhalla Civic Auditorium hosts The Tams. This legendary beach music group has been entertaining and thrilling audiences for 40 years with great hits such as “What Kind Of Fool (Do You Think I Am),” “Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy,” “Too 82 • Visitors Guide

Largest Quality Brand Name Furniture Showroom In The Golden Corner Complimentary Interior Design Service Free Local Delivery 708 Bypass 123, Seneca 864.888.0505 elegantdistinctive.com www.SCMountainLakes.com

hundreds of restored classic automobiles to the event and will feature the classic sounds of Bobby Rydell, as well as Jimmy Clanton and Jim Quick and Coastline. The Saturday charity motorcycle ride helps the festival raise thousands of dollars for local charities.

Sponsored by Blue Ridge Electric Co-op. www.blueridge.coop/blueridgefest/ May 11-12: Mayfest in Walhalla celebrates the finer points of arts, crafts, and great food. Friday’s events start at 11 a.m. and go to 7 p.m. with arts, crafts, and food.

Saturday events start at 8 a.m. and goes to 7 p.m. with live music from local bands from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on “the green” next to Arbys.

May 12: Acclaimed country singer, Mandy Barnett makes her debut on the Walhalla Civic Auditorium stage. Mandy has been the lead in Always … Patsy Cline at Nashville’s famous Ryman Auditorium. She will perform many of Patsy Cline’s hits as well as her own songs. (864) 638-5277

May 19: The Tony Rice Unit comes to the Walhalla Civic Auditorium; (864) 638-5277.

Tony Rice spans the range of acoustic music from straight-ahead bluegrass to jazzinfluenced new acoustic music to songwriteroriented folk.

May 24-26: Seneca Fest, down town Seneca’s Norton Tompson Park. Attractions include: a live free concert by the Little River Band at 8 p.m. on Saturday; 5k run walk; art displays; crafters; a classic car cruise-in; train rides; and helicopter rides. The Oconee Foundation of Oconee County will also hold its sixth barbeque cook-off as part of the event. rhjohnson@seneca.sc.us May 25-27: Oconee Community Theatre presents Allocating Annie. On the eve of

123 Buildings

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May 17: Grand opening of the Westminster Museum; 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

May 18: Downtown Go ’Round comes to Seneca from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Downtown stores are open late featuring new merchandise, art gallery openings and special sales.

PLAYSETS GAZEBO SHEDS PLAY HOUSES • CARPORTS

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Experience Oconee, South Carolina

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Visitors Guide • 83

his wedding to wealthy Bobbi Ralston, Cliff Tucker inherits an orphan. He figures he can handle matters until the foundling turns out to be full grown and gorgeous with an infant in her arms. 864-882-7700.

■ JUNE

June 9: Fun In The Sun Festival, West Union, SC. This new event will be held from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, June 9. Family event and live music will be taking place down town.

There will also be lots of food and vendors, games and exhibits for children of all ages including a marshmallow-eating contest.

864- 710-9613 June 22-24: Chattooga River Festival, Clayton, GA. and Long Creek, SC. There will be dueling banjos, a banjo boogie and a makeshift boat race among other events at the first festival of its kind June 22-24 in Clayton, Ga. and Long Creek, SC. Other events will include live music on two stages, hiking, rafting and guided tours. Art exhibits and even a showing of the movie “Deliverance” at the Tiger Drive-in. http:// chattoogariverfestival.com/

■ JULY

July 4: Hillbilly Days in down town Mountain Rest, SC 29664.

One of the oldest July 4th festivals in the state of South Carolina: festival includes clogging, square dancing, country and bluegrass music, crafts and food each July.

864.638.1967 July 27-29 & Aug. 3-5: Clemson Little Theatre performs Leading Ladies.

Down-on-their-luck actors Jack and Leo are performing “Scenes from Shakespeare” on the Moose Lodge circuit, when they hear of a woman in York, PA, who plans to leave her fortune to her long-lost English relatives.

Desperate to improve their lot in life, the actors prepare to pass themselves off as her nephews, but in York they learn the relatives are nieces! 864-646-8100 84 • Visitors Guide

■ ONGOING

Historic Ballenger House Tours: The Seneca Woman’s Club preserves and manages the Historic Ballenger House. Tours by reservation, 864.654.4043 Heritage Lecture Series: Sundays, 2-4 p.m. at Historic Ballenger House April 29: Sarah Duvall, Gullahs of South Carolina May 20: Kate Sally Palmer, Children’s Storyteller June 27: Winnie V. Williams, Women I Can’t Forget Oconee Heritage Center: 123 Brown Square Dr., Walhalla, S.C. Old-Time Music Gathering - Second Saturday of each month from 3 to 5 p.m.

Everyone is invited to come hear the sounds of clawhammer banjo and old-time fiddle and guitar. Patrons are welcome to bring refreshments to share.

“Movie Night at the Museum” is every third Saturday of the month. A classic old movie will be shown with free admission, prefaced by a short presentation of the historical events. Free popcorn provided. Classroom seating is provided, but all are welcome to bring a comfortable chair. Call (864) 6382224. info@oconeeheritagecenter.org Hours of Operation: Tuesday through Friday: 12–6 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m,–3 p.m.

Square dancing at Oconee State Park: Every Fri from 8-10 p.m. beginning Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. www.SCMountainLakes.com

Jazz on the Alley: Ram Cat Alley in Seneca plays host to some of the best jazz in the upstate every Thursday, 6:30 to 9 p.m., April through October. Bring a comfortable chair and enjoy dining under the stars while the music plays.

Oconee County Friends of the Library: Used book sale the second Thursday of every month from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and some Saturday Sales from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., in the Walhalla Library basement, 501 W. S. Broad St., 864.638.4133.

Westminster Chamber of Commerce: Music on Main every Thursday Night, 6:30 until 8:30 p.m.; free music; bring your lawn chair; civic groups sell food or dine downtown.

The Art Talk Forum: A place where artists and people who enjoy art can meet and exchange ideas as well as learn. Forum is free and meets on the last Saturday of every month from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., at The Artists Loft, 121B Townville St., Seneca; 864.882.2711.

The Silver Dollar Music Hall: Bluegrass music every Friday night at 7 p.m. at on Highway 76 in Long Creek located next to The Long Creek General Store. The Music Hall is a free, family-friendly facility sponsored by The South Carolina Mountain Music Preservation Society Inc., a non-profit organization.

Call 864.647.0188.

W here ver Your

Imagination

May Take You...

GouldinG desiGn Can Show You The Way!

• Commissioned Oils on Canvas • Murals • Painted Furniture Michael David 864.886.0613 • Cell: 864.247.1062 www.gouldingdesign.net gouldingdesign@hotmail.com

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

• Interior Treatments • Pet Portraits

Visitors Guide • 85

Oconee County’s Largest Shopping Center Aldi

GNC

Allstate

Hair Masters

Baker’s Dogs

Hibbett Sports

Bath & Body Works

King Nails K-Mart

Belk

Pizza Hut

Blockbuster Video

Radio Shack

Cato

Shoe Show

China Wok

Stylemasters

Computers Plus

Subway

Hwy. 123 • Seneca

Dollar Tree Family Christian Stores 1 Franklin Financial st

1 Hwy.

nec e S • 23

a

The UPS Store

Turner’s Jewelers Unlimited Talk

shopping Oconee offers a variety of specialty stores in each of its cities and towns. From antiques to interior design to southern specialties and art, you’ll find shops and boutiques to inspire you. Oconee’s city centers also offer a number of national retail stores. Enjoy Ram Cat Alley in Seneca, antiques in Walhalla, and the quaint shops of Main Street in Westminster...and the many local businesses in between.

■ Seneca Retailers Amber Waves - African/Ethnic Art 116 Ram Cat Alley, 864.882.7732 www.artscomp.com Belk 285 Applewood Center Pl., 864.882.2431 Elegant & Distinctive 708 By Pass 123, 864.888.0505 Emily’s 263 Market St., 864.882.0500 Harris Sporting Goods 991 By Pass 123, Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.3391 Heartwarmers - Gifts 337 Market St., 864.882.9481 Hochstetler’s Country Store 1470 S Walnut St, 864.882.3040 House Accents - Decorating 105 B Ram Cat Alley, 864.888.3939 Patina on the Alley - Arts/Gifts/Specialties 114 Ram Cat Alley, 864.888.1110 www.patinaalley.com Patio & Fireside 10239 Clemson Blvd. #100, 864.888.4413

The Red Door - Gifts/Home Décor 120 Ram Cat Alley, 864.882.1443 Sears 366 Market St, 864.888.4449 Sensibly Chic - Baskets/Home Decor 124 Ram Cat Alley, 864.888.4455 The Silver Bucket - Gifts/Accessories 117 Rochester Hwy., 864.882.3003

Flowers •Home Interiors • Fine Gifts • Gourmet

 For the Home

Table Linens, Accessories, Florals, Artwork, Susan Creek & Root Candles

 Interior Design Services  Fresh Flowers & Delivery For Any Occasion

 Gourmet Gift Baskets

Large Selection of Gourmet Foods

 Bath & Body

Crabtree & Evelyn, Thymes, Pre de Provence

Porte Portese - Gifts/Gourmet Cooking 111 Ram Cat Alley, 864.882.0300 www.portaporteseramcatalley.com

Vera Bradley, Spartina, Cinda B, 499, & More

Rare Elegance - Home Decor 466 By Pass Hwy. 123, 864.888.3333 www.rareelegance.com

Located in Dogwood Plaza at Hwy.123 & Wells Hwy. Mon. - Fri. 10am-6pm & Sat. 10am-3pm 882.9481 · www.heartwarmersinc.com

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

 Handbags, Jewelry, Scarves

Visitors Guide • 87

Tri-County Ace Hardware 1645 Sandifer Blvd, 864.882.2100

Vintage Shopping Oconee County and the Upstate area are rapidly becoming known as a mecca for those who enjoy shopping for antiques and collectibles.

Whether it is items you seek because of their age beauty, rarity, condition, utility or some personal emotional connection, chances are good that you will find it in one of the many vintage shops sprouting up throughout the area.

Some valuable antiques can be bought from antique dealers and auction services. Many of the antique dealers operating in the Upstate are members of national trade associations, including the International Confederation of Art and Antique Association that represents 5,000 dealers across the country.

Following are some the antique dealers in this area ➥

Tri-Star True Value 12087 Wells Hwy, 864.885.9556 Vintage Art - Antiques 124 d Ram Cat Alley, 864.973.6088 Walmart Supercenter 1636 Sandifer Blvd, 864.885.0408 ■ Westminster Retailers All About Sports 216 E Main St., 864.647.1528 Dads & Lads - Clothing 224 East Main St., 864.647.9645 Dharma Rain Crystals - Gifts/Jewelry 220 West Main St., 864.647.6366 Wishbrook Furnishing - Furniture 204 East Main St., 864.647.2320 ■ Walhalla Retailers Candle Creations - Candles 324 East Main St., 864.710.9213 Farm House Gallery - Art Studio 124 East Main St., 864.718.7171 www.thefarmhousegallery.com Kareylynn’s - Gift/Accessories 220 East Main St., 864.784.2069

LAKE LAKE LIVING

Life at its finest on Jocassee

A ‘hole’ lot of Zipping along

88 • Visitors Guide

Bluegrass lives plan The coach’s game t A defining momen

Game on!

golf center New Upstate s finest among nation’

fun

History comes

ess Visual happin

to life PRSTD STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT # 18 SENECA, SC 29678

y” A beautiful “Legac to home Taste treats close PRSTD STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT # 18 SENECA, SC 29678

Upstate Lake

Upstate Lake

Living $3.95

• MAy/JUNE 2010

JULy/AUGUST

2010

PRSTD STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT # 18 SENECA, SC 29678

Living $3.95

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2010 •

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LAKE LIVING PB • UPSTATE

Peez-N-Carrots - Decorating Accessories 124 East Main St., 864.638.2391 www.pnccountrydecor.com

■ West Union Retailers Fine Designs - Furniture/Gifts 1451 W. Main St., 864.638.5163

of the Vine FruitValley East’ becomes ‘Napa Yadkin

Fishing on the fly

MAy/JUNE 2010

Thistle Ridge Soap 124 B East Main St. www.thistleridgeltd.com

ING l ING l LA KE LIV LIV , Keowee and Hartwel , Keowee and Hartwel Life at its finest on Jocassee

on Jocassee Life l at its finest , Keowee and Hartwel

Middle of Main - Accessories 124C East Main St., Walhalla, SC 29691 Over the Moon - Eclectic Creations 402 West Main St., 864.638.2008

• A • T • E U • P • S • T

• A • T • E U • P • S • T

• A • T • E U • P • S • T

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For subscription information, please call (864) 882-2375 www.SCMountainLakes.com

■ Seneca Lost and Found 112 Ram Cat Alley, 864.973.4138

■ Pendleton Avenue of Oaks 150 Exchange St., 864.646.8907

The Alley Antiques 117 Ram Cat Alley, 864.882.4476

Blue Ridge Antiques 130 E. Main St., 864.646.6008

The Purple Sunflower 125 Ram Cat Alley, 864.886.8222

Colonial Square Antique Mall 134 E. Main St., 864.617.1511

Now and Then Upscale Consignment 111 W. North 1st St., 864.882.9824

Grandma’s Antiques and Things Corner of Broad and Queen Sts. 864.646.8836

Patina on the Alley 114 Ram Cat Alley, 864.888.1110 Porta Portese in Tannon Hall 112 Ram Cat Alley, 864.882.0300 ■ Walhalla Southern Mountain Antiques 218 East Main St. www.southern.mountain.com Warthers Antique Market 308 E. Main St., 864.638.0200

Mountain Made 102 Exchange St., 864.646.8836 Past Times 165 N. Mechanic St., 864.508.5629 Pendleton Place Antiques 651 S. Mechanic St., 864.646.7673 Village Station Antiques 107 N. Mechanic St., 864.646.3090

Middle of Main Antiques 124C E. Main St., 864.638.8390 Farm House Interiors 124A E. Main St., 864.718.7171 Old Trading Post 222 E. Main St., 864.638.6107 The Village Framer and Antiques 120 E Main St, 864.638.7700 ■ Westminster Wishbook Furnishings 204 E Main St., 864.647.2320 ■ West Union Beyond Art Antiques & Collectibles 168 Scenic Plaza Dr, 864.638.9696 Sewing Factory Antiques 101 North Hwy. 11, 985.515.4412 The Vintage Market 168 Scenic Plaza Dr, 864.638.9696 Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Dresses Handbags Home Accessories Jewelry Shoes Sunglasses Wallets Watches and more...

FREE Gift Wrapping

882-0500

263 Market St. Dogwood Plaza Visitors Guide • 89

■ Arts and Gifts The Artists’ Loft 121 N Townville St, Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.2711 Blue Ridge Art’s Council 111 E South 2nd St, Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.2722 Patina on the Alley 114 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca, SC 29678 864.888.1110 The Purple Sunflower 125 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca, SC 29678 864.886.8222 The Red Door 120 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.1443 Green Springs 117 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca, SC 29678 864.888.4327

MOUNTAIN ARTS AND CRAFTS A number of specialty shops can be found throughout Oconee County, but some of them are devoted to mountain arts and crafts that are indigenous to the Upstate or are committed to reflecting the unique culture and heritage of the area. Among them are: Kudzu Kabin Designs with Nancy Basket.

While visitng, Nancy will show you how she dries Kudzu, and blends and dyes paper to make her unique Kudzu Cards.

She will enthrall visitors with wonderful Native American stories.

Ram Cat Alley shops. Take a trip to downtown Seneca to shop at the local antique stores, art galleries, and many unique stores on Ram Cat Alley and take home a box of homemade fudge from the Ye Olde Sandwich Shop.

The Farmhouse Gallery. Located a 124 E. Main St. in Walhalla Artist Vivian Edwards’ working studio has become an art stop for the South Carolina Heritage Corridor.

Visitors are welcome and appointments are appreciated. 864.718.7171

Heartwarmers 337 Market St, Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.9481 Merle Norman Cosmetics & Gifts 331 Market St, Seneca, SC 29678 864.882.3336 Taylor’s On Main 224 E Main St., Westminster, SC No Phone Listed Christi’s 213 E Windsor St., Westminster, SC 864.647.4716 Farmhouse Interiors 124A E Main St., Walhalla, Sc 864.718.7171 Candle Creations 324 E Main St., Walhalla, SC 864.710.9213 90 • Visitors Guide

Get the look you’ve always wanted and use products of the stars at Merle Norman Cosmetics & Gifts!

Call now to schedule your personal consultation at our Seneca location.

Merle Norman Cosmetics & Gifts Dogwood Plaza • Seneca, SC (864) 882-3336 www.SCMountainLakes.com

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“Experience Oconee” Tourism video about Oconee County “Experience it all...wild and scenic rivers, national outdoor treasures, pristine lakes, mountain trails and all the endless activities that Mother Nature has provided the Mountain Lakes Region. It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, accentuated with a little help from mankind. While you’re here, take time to enjoy internationally renowned golf courses set in spectacular mountain and lake vistas.”

The award-winning DVD, Oconee: Land Beside the Water and Experience Oconee, can be viewed or downloaded free of charge at www.SCMountainLakes.com.

■ Real Estate and Relocation Now that you’ve visited the Mountain Lakes Region of South Carolina, if you’re like many, chances are you’ve decided to stay. The Upstate of South Carolina has a national reputation as one of the best places to relocate and the lakes, mountains, and rivers of Oconee may have just persuaded you to do so. It’s a quality of life that when combined with the local education, entertainment, and cultural options offers an unparalleled lifestyle.

For information on public schools, local government, and general relocation, the following links may be helpful.

School District of Oconee County: www.oconee.k12.sc.us Oconee County Government: www.oconeesc.com One of the best resources for any relocation is to consult with a local realtor, who will be able to guide you to housing that meets your specific needs as well as inform you about local utilities, builders, post office Experience Oconee, South Carolina

services and the like. The area offers a wide variety of housing, both seasonal and permanent, and Oconee’s local realtors can be a great asset in helping you and your family make the best decision for you.

For additional information, contact: Bob Hill Realty 528 By Pass 123 # D, Seneca 864.868.3349 www.bobhillrealty.com/ Carolina Home Real Estate 102 N. Fairplay Street, Seneca 864.882.6670 1st Choice Realty - Keowee Key Realty 1209 Stamp Creek Rd., Salem 864.944.2400 Century 21 Hometown Realtors 100 Century Plaza, Ste. 8H, Seneca 864.482.7653 Re/Max Foothills at Lake Keowee 305 McCall Brothers Dr., Suite A, Seneca 864.944.5559 or 864.882.4200 Real Estate Inc. 1510 Blue Ridge Blvd., Suite 205, Seneca 864.882.8144 Visitors Guide • 93

People Quick Facts Oconee County Population, 2010 estimate: 74,274 Persons under 18 years old, 2010: 21.1% Persons 65 years old and over, percent, 2010: 19% Female persons, percent, 2010: 50.6% Living in same house 1 year and over, 2006-2010: 85.1% Mean travel time to work (minutes), workers age 16+, 2010: 24.9 Housing units, 2010: 38,763 Homeownership rate, 2010: 76.9% Housing units in multi-unit structures, 2010: 7.5% Median value of owner-occupied housing units, 2010: $126,700 Households, 2010: 29,910 Persons per household, 2010: 2.43

Emergency Number for Oconee County and Vicinity

9-1-1

Fire, Police, Ambulance Oconee Medical Center 298 Memorial Drive, Seneca, SC 29672 864.882.3351 Carolinas Poison Control Center 800.222.1222 Forest Fire Reporting 800.777.3473 • 800.735.8583 (TTY) Sheriff Anderson County 864.260.4400 Oconee County 864.638.4111 Pickens County 864.868.2603 Fire 864.898.5500 - Central, Norris, Six Mile Police 864.656.2222 - Clemson, Other Areas 864.226.6013 - Pendleton 864.638.4222 - Salem, West Union 864.885.2718 - Seneca City Only 864.638.4222 - Seneca, Other Areas 864.638.4345 - Walhalla Police 864.639.4020 - Central 864.624.2000 - City of Clemson 864.656.2222 Clemson University 864.885.2718 - Seneca City Only 864.638.5831 - Walhalla 864.647.3222 - Westminster South Carolina Highway Patrol Emergencies Only 864.260.2200 800.768.1503 Copyright © Kingfisher Maps, Inc. 2009 www.kingfishermaps.com

94 • Visitors Guide

www.SCMountainLakes.com

We Specialize in Upstate Homes That Work or Play.

Vacation, Retire or Invest. We offer you the expertise to manage your dream home and rent it in either a long term or vacation rental program.

From a secluded lakeside home to a cabin in the woods that could someday be a great place to retire, second homes represent a great way to diversify your portfolio while positioning you to realize appreciation, tax and mortgage benefits.

We know that purchasing a second home is unlike that of your primary residence, and you need a real estate professional with proven knowledge of vacation and second home market conditions. Bob Hill Realty serves the waterfront communities around Lake Keowee, Lake Hartwell, and Lake Jocassee.

We offer a variety of professional rental programs in either a long term or vacation rental plan. You may contact us for more information on both options and we will help you decide which may be best for you.

Hi, I’m Homer Lakes!

RENT FROM ME! 528D ByPass 123. Seneca, SC 29678 864-882-0855 . 866-323-4307 www.bobhillrealty.com

For An Incredible Lifestyle. . . Just Add Water!

Experience Oconee, South Carolina

Visitors Guide • 95

What’s In Your Backyard? hiking Trails

challenging Golf

outdoor fun

stunning scenery

Considering the Lake keowee area?

Great communities

with affordable properties, low tax rates, mild climate and an abundance of outdoor activities, oconee county, sc is a great place to call home! If you’re ready to start exploring, scarlett & Tom want to be your realtors. we’ll work hard to find you the perfect property at the perfect price- and have the knowledge, experience, and dedicated team to make your search fun!

call or visit us online anytime and let us know how we can help you!

• o n h w y. 1 3 0 , a c r o s s f r o m k e o w e e k e y ™ •

866.609.3776 Toll Free E-mail: scarlettandtom@charter.net

Scarlett Fravel, Realtor/Owner Accredited Buyer Rep, Accredited Luxury Home Specialist Tom Freeman, Realtor/Owner