The term hillbilly originated when referring to persons living in the remote regions of the Appalachian Mountains. And since the Blue Ridge Mountains are technically part of the Appalachians, parts of South Carolina are in those remote hills.

One such place in the Palmetto State is actually located on a little mountain plateau only a few miles from the North Carolina border.
Google Maps [streetview]
It comes complete with a picturesque mountain lake. The elevation of Mountain Rest is 1,673 feet. That's twice the elevation of Anderson, and 1,653 feet more than the elevation of Charleston.
But it's not just the location that gives this small community its hillbilly status.
Facebook/Mountain Rest Community Club
It's their annual Hillbilly Day festival that brings out their inner hillbilly pride. And they know how to have fun with it on Hillbilly Day!
One day each year for the last 59 years, Mountain Rest hosts their unique annual event. And the bib overalls are aplenty, as more than 5,000 people show up to help celebrate.
Mountain Rest Community Club
The day holds many fun events for those attending.
Mountain Rest Community Club
If you're not from true Appalachia, then you may not understand the greased pole competition. But it's just like it sounds, and there is a pile of money clipped to the top of the pole — if you can hold on long enough — and claw your way through the grease to get to the top!
If that's not enough, then you can cheer on the little ones as they chase down a greased pig.
Mountain Rest Community Club
Of course, no all of the Hillbilly Day events will mean you need a change of clothing after participating. Enjoy plenty of great food, live bluegrass music, clogging, arts and crafts, demonstrations and the annual quilt raffle.
The annual event takes place on July 4th at the Pavillion.
Mountain Rest Community Club
It's hosted by the Mountain Rest Community Club. You can find more information about it here. Enjoy free parking and free admission. You may want to bring your own chair (if you think you'll want to sit down).

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No hillbilly town would be complete without a good old-fashioned swimming hole.
TripAdvisor/Lauren H
The one at Oconee State Park fits the description perfectly! With a dive platform in the middle of the lake, and sections roped off just for swimming, this watering hole is perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.
And if you want to spend the night, there are a couple of options.
TripAdvisor/Lucianatraveler
Oconee State Park has lovely little cabins for rent for a reasonable price. The reservations can be hard to come by, so make your plans will in advance.
Or you can can "rough it" in their campground.
TripAdvisor/reliabilityguy
If you love glamping and have a motorhome, bring it! Otherwise, pitch a tent and sleep on the ground just like hillbillies of yesteryear used to do.
You'll need to refuel while you're in town and there are a few options.
TripAdvisor/Rebecca L
The Rooster's Call in Mountain Rest offers breakfast all day. You just can't go wrong with food that sticks to your ribs while you're exploring a new area.
After, head out on a local adventure to explore some waterfalls.
TripAdvisor/Sharon C
There are several to see, including King Creek Falls and Yellow Branch Falls.
The trail to Station Cove falls delivers not one, but two beautiful waterfalls, Station Cove Falls and Oconee Station Falls.
TripAdvisor/jmpncsu
The trail is only 1.6 miles round trip and is well marked since it's located within Oconee State Park.

Whether you were born in the hills of South Carolina, or not, you’ll love visiting this little hillbilly town in the Upstate.

For another fun town to visit in South Carolina, check out this tiny town that has some scrumdiddlyumptious restaurants.

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