Boating At Lake Jocassee In South Carolina

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Nestled in the upstate region of South Carolina, Lake Jocassee is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty. Surrounded by the Jocassee Gorges and the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, the lake's picturesque setting makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Boating is a favorite pastime on Lake Jocassee, with its calm and clear waters providing an ideal environment for leisurely cruises and water-based adventures. Whether visitors bring their own boats or opt for rental options available at the lake, boating offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning coves and hidden waterfalls dotting the shoreline.

Popular water sports are abundant on Lake Jocassee, with kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming among the favored activities. The crystal-clear waters allow visitors to witness the submerged wonders beneath the surface, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Lake Jocassee features several boat launch ramps, ensuring easy access for boaters to start their exploration of the lake's natural wonders. Additionally, marinas around the lake provide amenities and services for those in need of boat repairs or supplies.

Fishing on Lake Jocassee is an adventure in itself, as the lake is renowned for its abundance of fish species, including trout, bass, and catfish. Anglers flock to the lake year-round, lured by the promise of a rewarding fishing experience amidst the serenity of the surrounding wilderness.

While camping is not directly available on the lake itself, there are nearby campgrounds and state parks, such as Devil's Fork State Park, offering scenic camping sites. These camping opportunities allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area and extend their stay to fully enjoy Lake Jocassee's wonders.

The charming town of Salem, South Carolina, is located near Lake Jocassee, providing visitors with easy access to amenities and dining options. Whether seeking a tranquil retreat or an action-packed adventure, Lake Jocassee offers a remarkable escape into the unspoiled landscapes of South Carolina's upstate region.

Boating, camping and fishing.

A scenic boating destination and one of the few trout lakes in SC, Lake Jocassee offers fishing for both cold-water and warm-water fish species. There are three public boat launch ramps for launching your pontoon, pleasure or fishing boat. Kayaks, canoes, pontoons and ski boats are available for rent at nearby Jocassee Outdoor Center, an off-the-water marina, which serves Lake Jocassee and Lake Keowee. Lodging and campgrounds with RV spaces are available at the lake. Trout, hybrid stripers, bass, crappie, catfish, pickerel, sunfish and white bass all thrive in this 7,500-acre reservoir. This scenic lake is located on the northwest border of the state with NC, at Jocassee, SC. Fishing from a boat is the ideal way to fish the 75 miles of rocky shoreline.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES (Off-water)
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NO

Camping

Devils Fork State Park Campground - 864 944-2639

Jocassee RV Park - 864 380-5367

Under The Oaks RV Park Campground - 864 710-1407

Lake Jocassee Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Lake Jocassee include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, redeye bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, warmouth, white bass, yellow perch, hybrid striped bass and chain pickerel.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Spotted bass Redeye bass Channel catfish Flathead catfish Black crappie White crappie Rainbow trout Brown trout Bluegill Pumpkinseed Sunfish Redbreast Sunfish Redear Sunfish Warmouth Sunfish White Bass Yellow Perch Hybrid Striped Bass Chain pickerel