Lake Jocassee

Lake Jocassee, nestled amidst the stunning Jocassee Gorges in South Carolina, boasts captivating natural beauty and exciting recreational opportunities. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

Books about Lake Jocassee:

Lake Jocassee Paddleboarding: A Guide to Flat Water Stand up Paddling

Lake Jocassee Wakeboarding: Learn How to Wakeboard

Lake Jocassee Safety Book: The Essential Lake Safety Guide For Children

Lake Jocassee Fun Book: A Fun and Educational Book About Lake Jocassee

Lake Jocassee Water Safety Coloring Book

Lake Jocassee Vacation Super Coloring Book

Location and Size:

• Situated in northwestern South Carolina, primarily within Pickens and Oconee Counties. Devils Fork State Park provides the only public access point.
• Covers an area of approximately 7,500 acres (30 square kilometers) with a depth reaching up to 300 feet (91 meters).

History and Legend:

• Created in 1973 as a reservoir by the state of South Carolina in partnership with Duke Power for hydroelectric generation.
• The lake’s name originates from a Cherokee legend about a maiden named Jocassee. The legend tells the story of a young warrior who fell in love with Jocassee and was rescued by her after an accident.

Natural Beauty and Activities:

• Renowned for its pristine and cool, clear waters, maintained by the inflowing mountain rivers.
• Surrounded by lush green forests and the majestic Jocassee Gorges, offering a scenic escape.
• Popular for various outdoor activities:
  • Boating: Enjoy peaceful pontoon cruises or explore hidden coves by renting a boat. Follow regulations regarding motorized watercraft.
  • Fishing: Known for healthy populations of rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass. Remember to obtain a South Carolina fishing license.
  • Hiking: The surrounding Devils Fork State Park offers scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views of the lake and the Jocassee Gorges.
  • Scuba Diving: The exceptional water clarity makes Lake Jocassee a haven for scuba divers, with companies offering guided dive trips to explore underwater rock formations and aquatic life.

Surroundings and Amenities:

• Limited development surrounds the lake, preserving its natural beauty. Devils Fork State Park offers campsites, picnic areas, and a park store.
• Towns like Salem and Clemson lie within driving distance, providing restaurants, shops, and additional accommodations.

Additional Information:

• The pristine waters of Lake Jocassee serve as a vital part of the region’s water supply system.
• Due to its limited development and focus on conservation, parking availability at Devils Fork State Park, the access point, can be limited during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.