OCONEE STATE PARK
This popular Upcountry state park rests on a high plateau among tall pines and hardwoods in the foothills of the Blue Ridge.
Among the park's 1,165 acres are two mountain lakes and a variety of recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy, including campgrounds, cabins, picnic areas and hiking trails.
The park also serves as the western terminus for the 85-mile Foothills Trail, which crosses the state's crown and ends at Jones Gap State Park.
Developed in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, Oconee State Park still features the craftsmanship of the CCC in preserved buildings and stonework.
South Carolina offers a variety of Park Passports. You can read more about the South Carolina Park Passports and order online by visiting the
SOUTH CAROLINA PARK PASSPORTS web page.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
1. Oconee State Park offers a designated swimming area in its large, man-made lake.
2. Lifeguards are not provided at the park's swimming areas.
3. Swimming is allowed from dawn to dusk daily during summer months only.
4. The use of personal floatation devices and water toys is permitted while swimming.
5. There are no additional fees for using the swim area; it's included with your admission fee into the park.
Enjoy fishing in two freshwater lakes, home to catfish, bream and bass. Trout streams are also available nearby.
Oconee State Park is located near Central, Clemson and Seneca
Oconee State Park offers numerous picnic tables, two shelters for rent and grills. It's perfect for family or group picnics.
While exploring the area, one can enjoy a leisurely bike ride on Old Waterwheel Road. Be mindful of pedestrians.
The Hidden Falls Trail offers an adventurous biking experience but requires advanced skills due to its challenging terrain.
For those seeking less strenuous options, consider cycling along scenic park roads which are generally flat and well-maintained.
Please note that off-road mountain biking is not permitted within this location's boundaries for safety reasons.
Always wear appropriate gear including helmets when bicycling in order to ensure your own protection during these activities.
Remember: Biking after dark isn't allowed; plan accordingly so you finish before sunset as per regulations here.
Oconee has six nature/hiking trails originating in the park. The Oconee Trail, Old Waterwheel Trail and Lake Trail are loop trails within park boundaries. The Hidden Falls Trail and Tamassee Knob Trail are out-and-back trails that begin in the park and travel to U.S. Forest Service property. The park is an access point to the Foothills Trail.
"Oconee Trail (1.6 miles)
"Old Waterwheel Trail Trail (1.6 miles)
"Lake Trail (1 mile)
"Hidden Falls Trail (2.1 miles)
"Tamassee Trail (2.2 miles)
"Foothills Access (1.2 miles)
The park offers birdwatchers a variety of species, including warblers and woodpeckers. Birding trails are also available for exploration.
General Directions: Twelve miles northwest of Wallhalla off SC 28 onto SC 107.
Driving Directions: From I-85: take exit 1 to Hwy 11 toward Walhalla. From Hwy. 11 take Hwy 28. Travel through Walhalla and continue for approximately 10 mi. Turn rt onto Hwy 107 and the park will be 2 mi on the rt.