Nature's Haven at Oconee State Park
Explore the pristine beauty of Oconee State Park, a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility in South Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains.
Nestled in the heart of South Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, Oconee State Park offers a serene escape with stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and rich wildlife. Ideal for families and nature lovers, this park is a must-visit for anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. With hiking trails, fishing spots, and picturesque picnic areas, it promises an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Oconee State Park
- 624 State Park Rd, Mountain Rest, South Carolina, 29664, US
- +1864-638-5353
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good picnic spot, especially on weekends.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the park is home to diverse bird species.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- If camping, reserve your site in advance during peak seasons for guaranteed availability.
- Explore the nearby hiking trails for more secluded experiences away from the main park areas.
Getting There
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Car
From Congaree National Park, head northwest on SC-48 W (Bluff Road) towards SC-6 W. Continue for approximately 7 miles until you reach the junction with I-77 N. Merge onto I-77 N and travel for about 22 miles. Take exit 5B to merge onto I-85 N towards Charlotte. Continue on I-85 N for approximately 45 miles, then take exit 1A to merge onto US-123 N towards Clemson. Follow US-123 N for about 25 miles, then take SC-28 N towards Walhalla. Continue on SC-28 N for another 10 miles, then turn left onto State Park Rd. Follow State Park Rd for about 2 miles to reach Oconee State Park at 624 State Park Rd, Mountain Rest, SC 29664.
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Public Transportation
Starting at Congaree National Park, you will first need to find a local taxi or rideshare service to take you to the nearest bus station in Columbia, SC. From there, take the Greyhound or another regional bus service that travels to the nearest town to Oconee State Park. You may need to book your bus ticket in advance. Once you arrive at the nearest bus stop, you will likely need to call a local taxi service or rideshare to take you the remaining distance to Oconee State Park (about 10 miles). Make sure to check bus schedules ahead of time to ensure a smooth transition.
Discover more about Oconee State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tamassee Town Historical Site
5.4 km
Experience the charm of Tamassee Town Historical Site, where rich history meets natural beauty in South Carolina.
Commemorating The Ring Fight
5.6 km
Experience the profound historical significance and natural beauty at The Ring Fight landmark in Cheohee Valley, South Carolina.
Burrell's Place Site
6.8 km
Explore Burrell's Place Site, a historical landmark in Mountain Rest, SC, rich in stories and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Blue Ridge Railroad Trailhead
6.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Blue Ridge Railroad Trailhead in Walhalla, South Carolina, perfect for hiking and exploration.
Fort Prince George Historic Site (ca. 1753)
19.2 km
Explore Fort Prince George, an 18th-century historical landmark in Six Mile, SC, revealing the colonial military history of the region.
Newry Historic District
24.0 km
Discover the Newry Historic District, a hidden gem in South Carolina where history meets natural beauty and small-town charm.
Zachary-Tolbert House
24.9 km
Explore the rich heritage of North Carolina at the Zachary-Tolbert House, a historical museum immersing visitors in the region's early settler life.
Seneca Historic District
25.2 km
Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Seneca Historic District, a must-visit destination in South Carolina for every traveler.
Laurel Falls
26.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical significance of Laurel Falls in Sunset, SC, a must-visit landmark for nature lovers and hikers.
Fort Rutledge
32.2 km
Explore Fort Rutledge, a historical landmark in Clemson, SC, that showcases the region's rich heritage and natural beauty for all visitors.
Clemson University
32.4 km
Discover the beauty and culture of Clemson University, a premier public university in South Carolina, offering scenic landscapes and rich history.
Hanover House
33.9 km
Discover the captivating history of Hanover House, a charming historical landmark and museum in Clemson, South Carolina, perfect for history enthusiasts.
Sassafras Mountain
37.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and diverse hiking trails at Sassafras Mountain, the highest peak in South Carolina, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Woodburn Historic House
38.0 km
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Lake Hartwell Country South Carolina
38.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Oconee Station State Historic Site
4.1 km
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Foothills Trail - Cheohee Road Access
5.3 km
Uncover the natural beauty of the Foothills Trail in Mountain Rest, SC, a must-visit destination for hiking and nature lovers seeking adventure.
Licklog Falls and Pigpen Falls
6.5 km
Explore the hidden beauty of Licklog Falls and Pigpen Falls, a hiking paradise in the heart of South Carolina's breathtaking landscapes.
Stumphouse Tunnel
6.7 km
Experience the enchanting Stumphouse Tunnel in Walhalla, SC – a unique blend of history, hiking, and natural beauty awaits your adventure.
Yellow Branch Falls
8.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Yellow Branch Falls, a serene hiking area and scenic spot in South Carolina, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
King Creek Falls
10.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of King Creek Falls in South Carolina, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina
12.1 km
Explore the rich culture and history of the Cherokee people at the Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina, a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
Ellicott Rock Wilderness
14.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Ellicott Rock Wilderness in South Carolina's serene natural preserve.
Water Fall
16.0 km
Experience the beauty of nature at the Water Fall, a scenic spot in Clearwater, South Carolina, offering breathtaking views and adventure.
Secret Falls Trail Head
16.5 km
Explore the hidden beauty of Secret Falls Trail Head in Highlands, NC - a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Jocassee Town Historic Location
17.2 km
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Devils Fork State Park
17.2 km
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Wright Creek Falls
19.4 km
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Whitewater Falls
20.2 km
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Thompson River Falls
20.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Habanero's Mexican Grill
6.6 km
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The Last Chance of Walhalla
9.0 km
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Mountain View Restaurant
10.6 km
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Steph's Steaks
12.1 km
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Sister's Restaurant
12.3 km
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Pat's Cash & Carry
12.8 km
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Mountain View Restaurant Steak & Seafood
12.8 km
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Beyond the Bull
14.4 km
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Subway
18.0 km
Experience fresh flavors at Subway in Salem – your quick stop for delicious sandwiches and healthy meals while exploring South Carolina.
California's Mexican Grill
18.5 km
Experience authentic flavors at California's Mexican Grill in Salem SC - where every bite brings you closer to Mexico!
The Lighthouse Restaurant & Event Center
19.8 km
Experience exquisite American dining at The Lighthouse Restaurant & Event Center with stunning views of Lake Keowee in South Carolina.
The Cabana At The Lighthouse
19.8 km
Experience delicious grilled cuisine with stunning lakeside views at The Cabana At The Lighthouse on beautiful Lake Keowee.
Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro
22.0 km
Discover culinary delight at Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro in Highlands - where American flavors meet French elegance.
The Stubborn Bull at Mill Creek
22.3 km
Experience farm-to-table dining at The Stubborn Bull in Highlands, NC - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Copper River Grill
23.5 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Copper River Grill in Seneca - where every meal tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jocassee Outfitters Fly Shop & Guide Service
10.3 km
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Middle of Main Antique & Gem Mine
12.1 km
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Jocassee Keowee Rentals LLC
15.3 km
Discover the enchanting waters of Lake Jocassee with Jocassee Keowee Rentals, your premier boat and kayak rental service in South Carolina.
Lake Jocassee Dive Shop
16.2 km
Explore the depths of Lake Jocassee with the premier dive shop, offering SCUBA instruction, gear rentals, and unforgettable underwater adventures.
Jocassee Outdoor Center
16.8 km
Discover endless adventures at Jocassee Outdoor Center, your hub for boating, fishing, and outdoor exploration in South Carolina's stunning landscapes.
Eclectic Sun Paddlesports
17.1 km
Discover the beauty of South Carolina's waterways with canoe and kayak rentals at Eclectic Sun Paddlesports, your go-to for outdoor adventure.
JOCASSEE LAKE TOURS
17.1 km
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Lake Jocassee Devils Point #1 access
17.2 km
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For The Birds
17.9 km
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Lake Jocassee
20.8 km
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The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards Marina
20.8 km
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Rosenthals
22.1 km
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Elevation
22.2 km
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Green Springs
24.7 km
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RECLAMATIONS
25.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Twice A Town Taproom
12.1 km
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Jocassee Valley Brewing Company
13.0 km
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Triple D Racks Sports Bar
15.3 km
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The Ugly Dog Public House- Highlands
21.9 km
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The High Dive
22.2 km
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Mullen's Irish Pub
23.1 km
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Jocassee Point
25.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures at Jocassee Point, your gateway to nature in South Carolina's stunning landscapes.
The Ugly Dog Pub-Cashiers
27.0 km
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Whiteside Brewing Company
27.4 km
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The Library Kitchen & Bar
28.5 km
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The Fix Restaurant Bar and Lounge
29.0 km
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Osteria Del Monte
29.7 km
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Panthertown Cafe LLC
31.0 km
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Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers
32.2 km
Experience the best chicken fingers in Clemson at Raising Cane's, where quality meets Southern comfort food in a fast-casual setting.
Los Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant
32.3 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors in a vibrant setting at Los Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant in Lake Toxaway, North Carolina.
