The Palmetto State has many beautiful waterfalls, ranging from popular spots to hidden gems. My guide covers 12 of the state's best waterfalls in South Carolina, each with a unique appeal. Popular sites like Issaqueena Falls and Twin Falls offer stunning views with easy access. Lesser-known spots like Chau Ram County Park and Wildcat Branch Falls provide peaceful beauty and are also easy to reach. Whether you're near Greenville or looking for a quieter location, these waterfalls offer great experiences for the nature lover in you!

Ready to explore more waterfalls beyond the state border? From jaw-dropping cascades to swimmable emerald ponds, there are countless magnificent waterfalls found across the United States to explore.

Go Chasing Waterfalls

Tallest Waterfalls In South Carolina

This region is home to some of the biggest waterfalls in South Carolina, including Lower Whitewater Falls, Raven Cliff Falls, and King Creek Falls. Lower Whitewater Falls plunges impressively 200 feet, while Raven Cliff Falls towers at 400 feet in Caesars Head State Park. Meanwhile, King Creek Falls offers a serene escape with its picturesque 70-foot drop in Oconee County's lush wilderness. These falls highlight the natural beauty of SC's outdoors.

1. Lower Whitewater Falls

Location: Salem, SC

Popularity: A popular destination. Despite not being as well known as other attractions in the state, it attracts visitors year-round, particularly on weekends and during peak tourism seasons.

Need To Know A small fee per vehicle is required for entry, which is particularly beautiful in the fall and spring. Please stay on trails - individuals have tragically fallen to their deaths or sustained injuries at Whitewater Falls.

The impressive Whitewater Falls, near Cashiers, North Carolina, and the South Carolina border, comprises Upper and Lower sections and stands as the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies.

The Lower Whitewater Falls, in South Carolina's Jocassee Gorges area, lies about half a mile downstream from its North Carolina counterpart. Plummeting over 200 feet - it's best viewed from an observation platform accessed via a 1.9-mile trail. This hike offers a longer, more challenging route compared to the Upper Falls, with the chance for a beautiful river crossing and wooden steps through a lush forest.

The Foothills Trail is an adventurous option for exploring both falls on a demanding trek.

2. Raven Cliff Falls

Location: Cleveland, SC

Popularity: Raven Cliff Falls is popular, particularly on weekends and during peak seasons, so expect crowds.

Need To Know Parking can be limited, especially during peak times, so it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. There is a designated parking area near the trailhead, but it may fill up quickly. Additionally, there is a small parking fee, so be sure to have cash on hand.

Raven Cliff Falls is a 400-foot waterfall located in Caesars Head State Park, and it is the highlight of the park, being one of the most photographed waterfalls in The Palmetto State. You can enjoy a moderate 2.2-mile hike to the falls, passing through leafy forests and crossing a suspension bridge. The trail offers gorgeous views of the surrounding scenery and leads to a viewing platform at the base of the falls.

Locals recommend visiting in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom - and the water flow is at its peak. Also, a fun fact, Raven Cliff Falls derives its name from the numerous ravens nesting in the towering cliffs surrounding the waterfall. The region boasts over 150 identified species of these birds!

3. King Creek Falls

Location: Mountain Rest, SC

Popularity: A popular spot, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.

Need To Know Parking is available at the Burrells Ford Parking Area, but spaces may fill up quickly, especially during peak times.

King Creek Falls in Oconee County is a beautiful waterfall. It boasts a 70-foot cascade surrounded by lofty greenery and rocky terrain.

Hikers can reach the falls via two trail options, both offering a combination of easy and moderate hikes with picturesque views. The waterfall is especially breathtaking after a good rain when the water flow is stronger.

While the waterfall is the main attraction, don't forget to explore the surrounding area for hidden gems, such as smaller cascades and tranquil spots along King Creek.

Best Waterfall Hikes In South Carolina

Explore the finest waterfall hikes in South Carolina, including the Rainbow Falls Trail, Yellow Branch Falls Trail, and Spoonauger Falls via the Chattooga River Trail. These scenic hiking trails offer natural wonders, from lush forests to stunning cascades, providing fun experiences for adventurers of all levels.

4. Rainbow Falls Trail

Location: Marietta, SC

Popularity: Popular and can be busy, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. To avoid crowds, try hiking early in the morning or on weekdays.

Need To Know Jones Gap State Park requires reservations to be made 48 hours in advance and charges an entry fee.

The Rainbow Falls Trail is a popular hiking path in Jones Gap State Park. This moderately strenuous trail spans about two and a half miles round trip and features a steady climb through dense forests and rocky terrain. It's worth the effort, though, as you are rewarded with the stunning Rainbow Falls, a 100-foot waterfall that cascades down a steep rock face.

The falls get their name from the beautiful rainbows that often form in the mist on sunny days. The trail includes several creek crossings and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. It is well-marked but can be challenging, so proper footwear and plenty of water are recommended.

The Rainbow Falls Trail is a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a rewarding hike in the South Carolina mountains.

5. Yellow Branch Falls Trail

Location: Walhalla, SC

Popularity: The popularity of the Yellow Branch Falls Trail varies depending on the season and time of day. During peak seasons and weekends, especially in the summer months, it can be quite busy with hikers and visitors.

Need To Know The parking surface is paved, with two areas available: one near the picnic spot and another on the loop road. A vault toilet is also provided.

The Yellow Branch Falls Trail is located in the Sumter National Forest. This moderate trail is known for its waterfall, Yellow Branch Falls, which cascades 50 feet into a beautiful pool below. The trail meanders through a scenic forest, crossing streams and offering hikers a chance to experience nature at its finest.

The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy to navigate, making it accessible to hikers of various skill levels. You can enjoy the peaceful sound of the waterfall and take in the picturesque surroundings, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the natural wonders of South Carolina.

6. Spoonauger Falls via Chattooga River Trail

Location: Mountain Rest, SC

Popularity: Spoonauger Falls is moderately popular, with occasional peak-season crowds, but it doesn't draw the same level of visitors as more well-known waterfalls in the area.

Need To Know A vault toilet is provided at the parking area for Burrells Ford Campground, offering parking for approximately 10 vehicles on a dirt/gravel surface, with overflow parking available 0.3 miles away at the Burrells Ford Parking Area.

Spoonauger Falls, located in the Chattooga River Watershed, offers a lovely, accessible, and short hike. Tumbling down a stepped rock face and framed by lush rhododendrons, this 50-foot-high waterfall is a sight to behold. The surrounding foliage adds to its beauty, especially during the summer months when the leaves are in full bloom.

The hike to Spoonauger Falls is a manageable 20-minute walk from the Chattooga River Trailhead, with only one potentially challenging creek crossing along the way. The trail provides a great chance to quickly take in some nature and enjoy the cascading Spoonauger Falls without much effort.

Accessible Waterfalls In South Carolina (No Hiking Required)

SC offers several accessible falls that require no hiking, making them perfect for all visitors. Notable spots include Issaqueena, Twin Falls, and Chau Ram County Park, each providing beautiful views and easy access.

7. Issaqueena Falls

Location: Walhalla, SC

Popularity: Less crowded compared to other waterfalls in the region.

Need To Know Admission is $5 per vehicle via a self-pay station. The left parking area offers easy access to the bike trail entrance, handicap-accessible bathrooms, picnic shelters, tables, and trash bins.

Issaqueena Falls is a picturesque waterfall in the upstate region of South Carolina near Walhalla. It cascades approximately 100 feet over a series of rocky ledges. A short and easy walk from the parking lot leads to the falls, and the trail is well-maintained. There's a viewing platform that offers an excellent vantage point for capturing photos of the falls.

If you choose to walk down to the bottom of the waterfall, please be cautious: the path is steep and difficult. It involves climbing over large rocks and walking over tree roots, so it's not suitable for small children, dogs, or those with mobility issues.

8. Twin Falls (Reedy Cove Falls, Rock Falls, or Eastatoe Falls)

Location: Sunset, SC

Popularity: Eastatoe Valley is a popular spot, especially during the fall when the leaves change.

Need To Know Restrooms and trash cans are not available at the falls. However, dogs are permitted.

Twin Falls, alternatively known as Eastatoe Falls, Reedy Cove Falls, or Rock Falls, is nestled in the picturesque Eastatoe Valley, making it one of South Carolina's most accessible waterfalls. Situated within a private 25-acre nature preserve, it offers free admission to all visitors.

The falls, which can be reached via two separate trails, reveal a fascinating natural spectacle – especially during periods of high precipitation when a third, albeit smaller, waterfall emerges to the right of the main falls. The two primary falls present distinct features: a 75-foot sheer granite cascade on the left and a 45-degree slope descent on the right (or sometimes middle).

Reaching Twin Falls involves navigating two separate trails, with the lower trail being notably more accessible. While locating the trail entrances can be challenging due to the lack of official signage, the 25-mile hike to the base of the falls is relatively straightforward. This wide, flat trail is ideal for individuals of all ages and abilities, making it a fantastic spot to visit with the entire family.

9. Chau Ram County Park

Location: Westminster, SC

Popularity: A popular spot for families.

Need To Know A small parking fee applies.

Chau Ram County Park, known as Oconee County’s “Best Kept Secret,” is located at the confluence of Ramsey Creek and the Chauga River. The park's main highlight is a stunning 40-foot waterfall cascading over large boulders, which is accessible to visitors with disabilities.

A lower parking lot provides convenient roadside viewing, and there's a good wading pond at the foot of the falls. Additionally, a 160-foot suspension bridge spans the Chauga River, offering spectacular views. Excellent swimming spots are just a short, easy walk from the falls on a well-marked and partially paved trail.

The park features over three miles of hiking trails, 26 campsites with water and electricity, and multiple rental areas for gatherings. Chau Ram County Park provides a beautiful and accessible destination for everyone.

Best Waterfalls near Greenville

Discover the best falls near Greenville, SC, including Carrick Creek, Wildcat Branch Falls, and Reedy River Falls. These spots are perfect for a quick visit or a day-long adventure.

10. Carrick Creek Falls

Location: Pickens, SC

It's popular, especially on weekends and during spring and fall. The trails can get crowded, but the park's layout helps manage the flow of visitors.

Need To Know Table Rock State Park charges a fee to enter.

Carrick Creek Falls is a waterfall located in Table Rock State Park. You can expect a relatively easy and scenic hike to reach the falls, as the trailhead is conveniently located near the park’s main parking area.

The Carrick Creek Trail, a loop of about two miles, provides an accessible and family-friendly hike with well-maintained paths and wooden bridges crossing the creek at various points.

Carrick Creek Falls is approximately 40 miles from Greenville, making it a convenient day trip for residents and visitors to the city. The drive takes about an hour, offering a quick escape into the South Carolina mountains.

11. Wildcat Branch Falls

Location: Cleveland, SC

Popularity: It can get busy, especially during weekends and peak seasons.

Need To Know On weekends, you can buy hot boiled peanuts from a local vendor at the pull-off near Wildcat Branch Falls, adding to the attraction.

Wildcat Branch Falls, located in Greenville County, is a scenic and accessible waterfall just about 30 minutes northwest of Greenville. This waterfall is part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area and is easily visible from a pull-off on U.S. Highway 276.

The falls consist of three distinct sections. The lower falls, just a few steps from the parking area, feature a picturesque 30-foot cascade. A short, easy hike leads to the middle and upper falls, with the upper falls being the most impressive, cascading down a series of rocky ledges.

You can expect a well-maintained area with clear trails and picnic spots. The lower falls are particularly accessible, making it a convenient stop for those who prefer minimal walking. The proximity to Greenville makes Wildcat Branch Falls a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking a quick and beautiful nature getaway.

12. Reedy River Falls

Location: Greenville, SC

Popularity: Very popular.

Need To Know Parking near Reedy River Falls is available in various downtown lots and garages, with some street parking also accessible. Many parking options are within walking distance of Falls Park on the Reedy.

Reedy River Falls, nestled in the heart of downtown Greenville, South Carolina, offers a serene natural escape within the bustling cityscape. Here, the river cascades over rocky terrain, creating a tranquil oasis amidst urban surroundings. Visitors can unwind by the soothing sounds of rushing water and immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding greenery.

The falls serve as a focal point of Falls Park on the Reedy, a scenic retreat featuring winding pathways, lush gardens, and vibrant public art installations. It's a beloved spot where locals and tourists alike can reconnect with nature without straying far from the city center.

Have you been to any of these spots? Think they are some of the best “waterfalls near me”? Let me know – I’d love to hear what you think!

If you’re planning a road trip to these places and need a place to stay, consider these cozy vacation rentals! And if you’re looking for even more hidden waterfalls in South Carolina to explore, check out these six waterfall swimming holes, which are fantastic for a summer day.

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