Looking to get away this winter? One of South Carolina’s most sought-after summer destinations is also one of the most underrated winter spots, too. It turns out, Lake Jocassee is wonderful at any time of year – even if it’s too cold to swim in the truly ice-cold waters of the beautiful lake. Let’s take a look at this incredible winter destination in South Carolina and all the things to do at Lake Jocassee during the cooler season:

With or without snow, Devils Fork State Park is open year-round. And perhaps the best way to experience the beauty of winter at the lake is with an extended stay in one of the villas.
Facebook/South Carolina State Parks
The park has 20 villas featuring one, two, or three bedrooms.
TripAdvisor/Microbi
And each comes fully furnished with just about everything except sheets and towels.
TripAdvisor/Microbi
The nice thing about visiting during the winter is the minimum two-night stay as opposed to longer timeframes during busier periods when villas are rented by the week only. The weekly rental requirement (7-night minimum) most often applies from the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day. (But it is also in effect during other periods at some state parks.) Get complete information and details at the South Carolina State Parks's Devil's Fork State Park page.

Aside from the cabins, Devils Fork also has two campgrounds where you'll shiver in a tent but keep toasty out by the fire. Bring your camper if you have one. During the winter season you may just have the campground (almost) all to yourself.
Spend your days enjoying all the lake shore has to offer. Wide-open vistas of the surrounding mountains are on full display and the calming effect of the water provides instant relaxation.
Google/Zach Vanier

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While it doesn't snow often anywhere in South Carolina, if it does snow, you can almost bet Devils Fork State Park will see at least a dusting. This makes hiking all the more adventurous!
Flickr/bright5280
The state park's Oconee Bell Nature Trail is 1.5 miles of pure nature with peek-a-boo views of the lake and peaceful sounds of the creek.
AllTrails/
It's an easy loop to explore, is well marked, and begins in the parking lot near the rear of the Ranger Station. It's the only trail within the park.
There's a longer 3.1-mile trail called Coon Branch via Bad Creek Foothills hike. It starts a few miles from the park, but winds over a bridge and follows along the beautiful Whitewater River as it winds toward spilling into Lake Jocassee.
AllTrails/Christina Lysdal
Even in the dead of winter, this trail is absolutely stunning.
Google/Rollin Groseclose
Learn more about this hike (Coon Branch Trail) from our friends over at All Trails. When you're done hiking, bundle up and launch the kayak to explore the lake's shore from the water.
Hike. Camp. Explore. Stay in a gorgeous villa for the weekend, peruse the park gift shop, go geocaching... you'll be astonished at just how much fun Lake Jocassee is in the off-season!
Facebook/South Carolina State Parks

Ever checked out this winter destination in South Carolina – in the winter? You may be surprised at just how affordable those villas are in the winter! If you thought they were reasonable in the summer, then check out the winter pricing and consider making a reservation on the official website for South Carolina State Parks.

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More to Explore

Things To Do At Lake Jocassee & Related Info

AnneMarie | November 24, 2022

Are there any things to do near Lake Jocassee?

Some fun things to do near Lake Jocassee include:

 

What are some other fun activities to do during the winter in South Carolina?

We may not get snow very often, but there are plenty of fun activities during winter in South Carolina, including:

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Featured Addresses
Devils Fork State Park, 161 Holcombe Cir, Salem, SC 29676, USA