Lake Jocassee rests in the heart of Upstate South Carolina, just a short drive from
Greenville, and it captures the imagination of anyone seeking outdoor serenity. Its crystal-clear mountain-fed waters, cascading waterfalls, and largely undeveloped shoreline have earned it nicknames like “Lake Tahoe of the East” and “South Carolina’s Little Switzerland.”
Visitors find themselves surrounded by pristine wilderness, where nature feels untouched and pure. With an elevation above 1,000 feet and cool temperatures year-round,
Lake Jocassee remains a beloved retreat for hikers, campers, and water enthusiasts seeking an authentic outdoor escape.
Camping at Lake Jocassee
Camping around Lake Jocassee delivers an unforgettable outdoor experience where adventure meets tranquility.
Every camping opportunity is located inside Devil’s Fork State Park, a scenic area managed for recreation and conservation.
Campers can choose among three main setups depending on their comfort level, available equipment, and sense of adventure.
Families tend to stay closer to amenities, while experienced outdoor enthusiasts often prefer secluded or backcountry options that bring them closer to nature.
- Standard RV or tent campsites with full amenities
- Walk-in tent sites for semi-rustic comfort
- Boat-in backcountry campsites for adventurous paddlers
Each option offers a distinct experience, giving travelers the flexibility to shape their trip according to preference and adventure level.
Standard Campground (RV & Tent)
Standard campsites at Devil’s Fork State Park provide a well-balanced mix of convenience and natural surroundings.
The park features 59 paved sites suitable for both tents and RVs, creating a welcoming atmosphere for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Each site has been designed to ensure comfort while keeping visitors immersed in the natural setting.
Evenings in this area carry a peaceful tone, with sunsets reflecting across the water and distant calls of loons filling the air.
Guests often gather around campfires to enjoy the crackle of wood and soft hum of the surrounding forest.
Staying here allows easy access to trails, water activities, and park amenities while maintaining a comfortable base for multi-day adventures.
Walk-In Tent Sites
Walk-in tent camping near Lake Jocassee suits visitors looking for simplicity and immersion in nature.
Twenty-five elevated tent pads line the lakeshore, offering views that make each step toward the site worthwhile.
These sites appeal to minimalist campers, paddlers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat without modern distractions.
Each walk-in site requires a short uphill walk from the parking area, so a camp wagon or sturdy backpack becomes essential for hauling equipment.
While there are no hookups for electricity or running water, each site offers fire rings and tent pads designed for basic comfort.
- Scenic proximity to the lake for kayaking or swimming
- Elevated tent pads ensure dry and level setups
- Short distance to water access for recreation
- Best-rated spot: Site #13, celebrated for views and space
Privacy levels vary across the area, yet campers consistently praise the calm setting, soft breeze off the lake, and quiet mornings broken only by birdsong.
It’s a rewarding trade-off for those willing to carry gear in exchange for unmatched views and serenity.
Boat-In Camping (Double Springs Campground)
For campers seeking complete immersion in wilderness, the Double Springs Campground presents an unmatched challenge and reward.
Located at the base of Musterground Mountain, this site is accessible only by water.
A paddle of 40 minutes to an hour delivers campers to an untouched shoreline where solitude reigns.
Facilities are minimal, as the area is managed for primitive camping and low impact on the environment.
There are no running water sources, only pit toilets, and visitors must adhere to “pack in, pack out” ethics.
- Fire rings provided for controlled campfires
- Requirement to bring and remove all personal gear and waste
- Incredible star visibility at night due to minimal light pollution
- Constant presence of natural sounds like waves, crickets, and owls
Double Springs draws experienced paddlers, photographers, and those seeking mental refreshment far from crowds.
The lake’s reflective surface, coupled with the mountain backdrop, creates a calm atmosphere that rewards those willing to work for their peace.
Additional Lodging Options
Visitors who prefer modern amenities have several comfortable lodging alternatives inside and around Devil’s Fork State Park.
Twenty lakeside villas provide cozy accommodations with full kitchens, living areas, and screened porches. Some villas welcome pets, allowing families to travel together without restriction.
Each lodging option keeps guests within easy reach of the lake and nearby trails.
Those seeking extra space, privacy, or extended stays find that these accommodations deliver convenience while maintaining the beauty of a natural setting.
Water-Based Recreation
A trip to Lake Jocassee would feel incomplete without spending time on the water. Its clarity and cool temperature attract swimmers, paddlers, and divers throughout the year.
Paddling serves as one of the most rewarding ways to experience Lake Jocassee. Rentals are conveniently available through Eclectic Sun, the park’s official vendor.
Visitors who bring their own gear often rely on trusted lake and pond equipment manufacturers for quality kayaks, paddleboards, or safety accessories.
Each activity offers a different way to connect with the lake’s natural energy and unmatched tranquility.
Swimming
Lake Jocassee’s water clarity ranks among the best in the Southeast, making it a paradise for swimmers.
Several sandy coves provide comfortable entry points, and shallow areas make it safe for children and families.
- Award-winning clean water ideal for open swimming
- Shallow, sandy areas for relaxed wading
- Jump Rock, a thrilling 20-foot cliff jump for adrenaline seekers
Mountain-fed waters stay cool even in the heat of summer, providing an invigorating escape after hiking or paddling.
isitors often spend entire afternoons floating peacefully or lounging by the shore with scenic mountain views surrounding them.
Kayaking, Canoeing, and Paddleboarding
Paddling serves as one of the most rewarding ways to experience Lake Jocassee.
Rentals are conveniently available through Eclectic Sun, the park’s official vendor.
The calm morning waters create perfect conditions for beginners, while experienced paddlers enjoy exploring hidden inlets and waterfalls.
- Solo and tandem kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards
- Access to secluded coves, cliffs, and scenic waterfall routes
- Morning reflections ideal for photography
- Occasional afternoon winds for more challenging conditions
Each outing provides the chance to glide quietly through crystal-clear water while spotting fish, birds, and forested hills mirrored on the surface.
Pontoon Boat Rentals
For groups or families seeking relaxation without physical effort, pontoon boats offer a fun and comfortable option.
Jocassee Outdoor Center supplies rental pontoons suited for both guided waterfall tours and self-paced exploration.
- Spacious decks ideal for families or small groups
- Access to hidden beaches and waterfalls
- Flexibility for fishing, swimming, or sunbathing
- Option for guided scenic tours
Anchoring near a quiet waterfall or cove turns an ordinary outing into a memorable day filled with swimming, laughter, and picnics under the sun.
SCUBA Diving and Snorkeling
Lake Jocassee attracts divers and snorkelers eager to explore what lies below its pristine surface.
Created by a dam that submerged old valleys and structures, the lake hides a fascinating underwater landscape that continues to intrigue visitors.
Descending into its waters reveals a tranquil, otherworldly experience that captures the imagination of every underwater explorer.
The Bottom Line
Lake Jocassee captures what many outdoor enthusiasts seek, clean waters, scenic hiking trails, and camping experiences suitable for every comfort level.
Families, kayakers, and solo adventurers alike find something remarkable in its natural beauty.
A trip here offers peace, recreation, and unforgettable views of South Carolina’s mountain waters.
Few destinations provide such harmony between adventure and serenity as Lake Jocassee, a genuine hidden gem of the Southeast.