Travel Guide to Lake Jocassee

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease and thank ya
  [pleez and thank yuh]
• Thank youMuch obliged
  [muhch uh-blahy-d]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pahr-dn me]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [haw yawl doo-in]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. And you?]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yawl speak Ing-glish]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [I aint ketch-in on]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI reckon I'll take a gander at the bill, if ya don't mind
  [I reck-in I'll take a gan-der at the bill, if yuh dont mind]
• I don't eat meatI don't fancy any meat
  [I don't fan-see any meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon I'll settle the bill now
  [I reck-in I'll set-l the bill now]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Git on outta here!
  [Git on out-ta here!]
• Call the Police!Call the Sheriff!
  [Call the Shur-iff!]
• Call a doctor!Call the Doc!
  [Call the Doc!]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned a-round]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [I'm feel-in poor-ly]

• I'd like to buy...I reckon I'll buy...
  [I reck-in I'll buy...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [Just brow-sin]
• How much is it?How much fer that?
  [How much fur that?]
• That's too expensiveThat's a might pricey
  [That's a might pry-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya do a better deal?
  [Can yuh do a bet-ter deal?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [What's the time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [Morn-in]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [Even-in]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [Yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [eight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [Can yuh show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

Before the creation of Lake Jocassee, the area was home to the Cherokee people. The name 'Jocassee' is believed to have come from a Cherokee legend about a maiden named Jocassee, who was said to walk on water to meet her lover, a warrior from a rival tribe. This region was rich in Native American history and culture, with many Cherokee villages and trails crisscrossing the landscape.

The Jocassee Dam, which created Lake Jocassee, began construction in 1967 and was completed in 1973 by Duke Power. The dam was part of the larger Keowee-Toxaway Project, designed to provide hydroelectric power, recreational opportunities, and water supply to the region. The creation of the dam led to the submergence of the Jocassee Valley, forever altering the landscape.

When the Jocassee Dam was completed, the waters of the newly formed Lake Jocassee flooded the Jocassee Valley. This led to the submersion of several communities, including the town of Jocassee itself. Structures such as homes, churches, and even a lodge were submerged, and today, divers can explore these underwater remnants, providing a unique glimpse into the past.

In 1991, Devils Fork State Park was established on the banks of Lake Jocassee. The park was created to preserve the natural beauty of the area and to provide recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The park is a gateway to exploring the lake and its surrounding wilderness, offering visitors a chance to experience the pristine environment and rich history of the region.

Lake Jocassee plays a crucial role in hydroelectric power generation for the region. The dam harnesses the water's energy to produce electricity, contributing to the local power grid. However, the creation of the lake also had significant environmental impacts, including the displacement of wildlife and changes to the local ecosystem. Conservation efforts continue to balance the needs of power generation with environmental stewardship.

Today, Lake Jocassee is known not only for its natural beauty but also as a hub for outdoor recreation and cultural activities. The lake's crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings attract visitors for kayaking, fishing, and diving. The area's cultural heritage is celebrated through various local events and festivals, ensuring that the history and traditions of Lake Jocassee continue to be appreciated by new generations.

Lake Jocassee is located in the northwest corner of South Carolina, near the border with North Carolina. The closest major airport is Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), approximately 1.5 hours away by car. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach Lake Jocassee. Alternatively, you can drive from nearby cities such as Asheville, NC (about a 2-hour drive) or Atlanta, GA (about a 3-hour drive).

The best way to get around Lake Jocassee and its surroundings is by car. Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. There are several rental car agencies available at Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport. Once at Lake Jocassee, you can also rent boats or kayaks to explore the lake itself. There is no public transportation available directly to the lake, so a personal vehicle is essential.

The official currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most establishments around Lake Jocassee, including gas stations, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors or if you plan to visit more remote areas. ATMs are available in nearby towns such as Salem and Pickens.

Lake Jocassee is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard safety precautions should always be taken. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in your vehicle and be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always wise to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is Oconee Memorial Hospital, located about 30 minutes away in Seneca, SC. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in nearby towns such as Salem and Pickens where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for outdoor activities. Wear layers as the weather can change quickly. Avoid wearing high heels or dress shoes if you plan to hike. Religion: Respect local religious customs if visiting any nearby churches or religious sites. Public Transport: As there is no public transport directly to the lake, plan to use a car for all travel needs. Greetings: A friendly handshake or a simple 'hello' is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Southern cuisine. Don’t leave trash behind; always follow 'Leave No Trace' principles.

To experience Lake Jocassee like a local, consider visiting off-peak times to avoid crowds. Early mornings and weekdays are less busy. Bring a picnic and enjoy the scenic viewpoints around the lake. Engage with locals by visiting nearby towns such as Salem or Pickens, where you can find charming local shops and restaurants. Don't miss the opportunity to hike the trails around the lake, such as the Foothills Trail, which offers stunning views and a chance to see local wildlife.