In the tri-county area, lake life is a way of life!

Jocassee is a gem. Its pristine waters can be enjoyed via state parks or boat tours.

The Jocassee Gorges was recently named one of "50 of the World’s Last Great Places — Destinations of a Lifetime" in a special edition of National Geographic magazine.

Do you have children or grandchildren interested in learning to kayak? Let them learn basic strokes and maneuvers, how to safely get in and out of a kayak on land and in open water, and correct paddling posture for a fatigue-free morning of paddling on beautiful Lake Jocassee.

From Canebrake Access to Laurel Falls Access on Lake Jocassee, this popular day hike trail segment contains both steep ascents and descents, as well as spectacular views of Lake Jocassee. Most groups complete this hike in from three and a half to four hours. There is one quite steep ascent, which leads to the best views of Lake Jocassee. Hikers call it "Heartbreak Ridge."

Keowee can satisfy your need for adventure. Paddleboard and kayak rentals are available on Lake Keowee, allowing for true family time, great exercise and enjoying the outdoors. Keowee-Toxaway State Park has access areas for kayaking or paddleboarding, and designated boat ramps can be found nearby. High Falls and South Cove County Parks, on the shores of Lake Keowee, have an endless variety of lake-centered activities, including lakeside camping and boat access on a deep-blue body of water that’s legendary for fishing and recreation.

Hartwell is a perfect lake for kayaking, boating, fishing, and more. You can catch fish at just about any time of year at Lake Hartwell, but spring and early summer are generally the most productive. If you're looking for an entry point to Lake Hartwell, then Lake Hartwell State Park is a perfect place to start.

Located on Lake Hartwell, Portman Marina is the largest inland marina in South Carolina: a full-service marina, with over 500 wet and dry storage spaces. Another, Clemson Marina, has put together a fleet of modern, well-maintained watercraft for rent at great prices. Whether you want to fish, meander about soaking up the sun, or hit the lake for a day of skiing and tubing, they have the boat for you.

Restaurants:

Tiger Cove Grill

The Local Pub and Eatery

The Grill at Clemson Marina

Redneck Yacht Club Cove

Galley Restaurant

Attractions:

Lake Hartwell State Park

Clemson University

The Walker Course (Clemson Golf Course)

Darwin Wright Park/Anderson Beach

Sadlers Creek State Park

Twelve Mile Recreation Area

Anderson/Lake Hartwell KOA Holiday  

Marinas/Docks:

Freedom Boat Club Lake Hartwell

Clemson Marina

Lake Hartwell Fishing and Marina

Big water marina and campground

Harbor light marina south

Hartwell marina

Keowee key marina

Portman Marina Inc.     

Restaurants:

The Tiki Hut Lakeside Grill

Cabana at the Lighthouse

The Lighthouse

Keowee Springs Private Beach Club (membership required)

Attractions:

High Falls County Park

Keowee Lake Shop

South Cove County Park

Pickens County Park – mile creek          

Marinas/Docks:

Lake Keowee Marina

Sunset Marina on Lake Keowee

Keowee Key Marina

Carolina Dock

Keowee North Marine

Jocassee Outdoor Center