There's An Old Town Under Lake Jocassee In South Carolina

When South Carolina and Duke Power formed a partnership to create hydroelectric power nearly 50 years ago, the end result was unquestionably the most beautiful, pristine body of water in the state: Lake Jocassee. But there were tradeoffs that affected thousands who lived in the Jocassee Valley – namely, folks were forced to leave. Now there is an abandoned town under Lake Jocassee.

Many of the homes and the town that was to be in the way of the lake's rising waters were demolished (or simply moved).

But few people realize that a mostly intact lodge was recently found at a depth of 300 feet beneath the lake's surface, near where the Whitewater River flows into Lake Jocassee on the northwestern shores.

Believed to have been built in 1898, Attakulla Lodge was originally a ten-room home that opened its doors to traveling families and served as a bed and breakfast.

It soon expanded and was sold in the 1920s to the lodge's second owners who would retain the lodge through the flooding of the lake in 1973. The lodge, however, closed to the public in 1960 but continued to host family and friends of the owners.

Not too long ago, divers in Lake Jocassee had been exploring the area near where the Whitewater River flows into the lake. Upon reaching the bottom at approximately 300 feet below the surface they made a discovery.

The Attakulla Lodge was still largely intact and sitting in its dark and frigid grave on the bottom of the lake.

Divers continue to diligently explore the ruins of Attakulla Lodge. Even the old fence that surrounded the horse paddock by the house (pictured) still stands.

See it here, more than 50 years ago, before Lake Jocassee was filled with water.

Learn about the clearest lake in South Carolina with 300 miles of shoreline.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Fascinating Lakes in South Carolina

Chris Muras | January 01, 2023

What is the Lake Jocassee underwater hotel?

Attakulla Lodge sits 300 feet beneath Lake Jocassee. This underwater hotel was initially a family home built in 1898. It was eventually turned into a bed and breakfast for those traveling through the area. It remained so through different owners until 1960 when it was used for private friends and family of the owner until the lake was flooded in 1973.

How deep is the graveyard at Jocassee?

The remains of the town under Lake Jocassee included many recognizable areas even to scuba divers to this day. One of those areas is Mt. Carmel Cemetery. The graveyard at Jocassee is about 130 feet below the surface. The bodies were exhumed before the area was flooded, however, the gravestones still remain.

What are the prettiest lakes in SC?

South Carolina has many beautiful lakes and reservoirs that offer enchanting spots for nature lovers and adventurers. Some of the most beautiful in the state are Lake Jocassee, Lake Marion, and Lake Hartwell. But there are numerous others. Here are some of the prettiest lakes in South Carolina:

1. Lake Bowen
2. Lake Greenwood
3. Lake Marion
4. Lake Jocassee
5. Lake Hartwell
6. Lake Murray
7. Lake Keowee

With its vast meadows of wildflowers and stunning landscape views, Lake Jocassee can take your breath away. Not to mention the Lake Jocassee hotel submerged underwater. Meanwhile, Lake Marion boasts an impressive 180 miles of shoreline that offers plenty of activities including fishing and swimming. There's also the scenic Lake Hartwell which is a popular spot for both locals and tourists who enjoy things like sailing and bird watching.

Read more about each of these pretty lakes in South Carolina and more. Then start planning that SC getaway to go enjoy them.

Explore South Carolina

Featured Addresses

Lake Jocassee, South Carolina, USA

Not Many Know About The Mostly Intact Lodge Hiding At The Bottom Of This South Carolina Lake

Robin Jarvis

Author

Related Stories

This South Carolina Ancient Tree Is The Coolest Thing You'll Ever See For Free

Here Are 10 Of The Most Beautiful Lakes In South Carolina, According To Our Readers

South Carolina's Most Refreshing Hike Will Lead You Straight To A Beautiful Swimming Hole

Want more South Carolina in your inbox?