In the Summer of 2022 we visited two state parks on South Carolina lakes – Devils Fork SP on Lake Jocassee and Sadler Creek SP on Lake Hartwell. We were blown away by both lakes. The two lakes were part of a chain of three lakes in the northwest corner of South Carolina (from north to south – Lake Jocassee, Lake Keowee, and Lake Hartwell).
Devils Fork SP on Lake Jocassee
The beautiful pristine, cool, clear blue/green water of Lake Jocassee comes from the streams and rivers flowing from the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The backdrop of mountains and undeveloped coastline is picture perfect! We visited Devil’s Fork SP with our two sons and their families, and we had K along with us.
We rented a pontoon boat and were able to explore most of the lake in a day.
Lake Jocassee is known for its secluded waterfalls. Rather than the typical view from a distance, the visit to these waterfalls is up close and personal. The process goes like this – ease into the little fingers of the lake, drop anchor, jump off the back of the boat, and swim over to frolic in the refreshing, chilly waters at the base of the falls.
Undeveloped and unspoiled Lake Jocassee also features an endless supply of private beaches. We swam around (circumnavigated) this tiny island and tried a bit of fishing. Lake Jocassee is an excellent trout fishing spot.
K and A had their first tubing experience. They enjoyed using the hand signals we suggested – speed up, slow down, and just right. They even added a signal of their own – bumpy.
The next day we slowed down a bit and launched our kayaks and canoes. We paddled around and explored the area around the campground. We claimed a little shady beach carved into the steep shoreline and spent a very peaceful half day conversing, splashing around, and enjoying the scenery.
Happy birthday to J!
Columbus GA
The next week, while Joe was working in Columbus, we fit in excursions with K and E. First, to the Space museum.
And the waterfront splash pad,
and the Botanical Gardens
Sadler Creek SP on Lake Hartwell
Two weeks later, we snagged lakeside sites (#35 and 36) at Sadler Creek SP. Again, we were with our two sons and their families. Plus, this time we had E with us (while her family moved).
More campsite scenes
We had lake side sites with a beachy area, so mornings and late afternoons were often spent playing at in the water by our site. The alligator raft was a favorite.
One day we paddled over to the Persimmon Beach and played Robinson Crusoe.
These two state parks, with their private beaches and boating fun, were a blast. Although the sun has set on these summer trips, we plan to visit again!
