Waterfalls Near Lake Keowee South Carolina
Welcome to your curated guide to discovering hidden gems in Upstate, South Carolina specifically focusing on the best waterfalls near Lake Keowee. Located right in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this area has some pretty incredible waterfalls that you would never even know are there. That’s the beauty of South Carolina, the hidden treasures are endless.
Whether you are looking for a hike with a waterfall, just want to be in nature, or looking for a peaceful walk with views, these waterfalls are the perfect place for you. It’s hard to pick and choose which is my favorite as each of these waterfalls offers something different and unique.
My goal is to share everything you need to know about these falls before you visit like parking, trail difficulty, and some fun tips.
Best Waterfalls in Upstate South Carolina
Twin Falls, Sunset SC (also known as Reedy Cove Falls): Kicking off with one of my personal favorites about a 45-minute drive from our home in Seneca on Lake Keowee. If you haven’t already visited this 75-foot waterfall, add this to your must-see list.
The falls are super accessible with only a quarter-mile trail leading you to the viewing platform.
Twin Falls splits at the top and forms two separate waterfalls. Bring your family and dogs (on a leash) and have a picnic under the covered cabana, completely unplugged as there is hardly any cell service available. If you want to go swimming at a waterfall this is not your place as there is no swimming hole, but most people will jump on the rocks in the water and splash around. There is plenty of parking available with a free entry.
Waterfalls in Walhalla, SC
Isaqueena Falls: A quick 25-minute drive from Seneca is this 100-foot waterfall that is one of Oconee County’s most loved waterfalls. The great thing about this spot is that there is more than just a waterfall. While you’re here, explore the Stumphouse Tunnel, a 1,617-foot incomplete tunnel in the mountain that is fun to explore with your flashlight as it gets pretty dark inside. There is a parking lot with a $5 entry per car with plenty of parking, picnic tables, public bathrooms, a pavilion for events, and grills. The waterfall is a quick 15-minute walk from the parking lot and is an easy trail perfect for beginners, strollers, and people of all ages (and your dog!). There is a steep path to get down to the water, which is not recommended for beginners because it’s a super steep and muddy path that can be harder to navigate. If you can make the trek to the bottom of the waterfall, do it because it is so worth it.
Yellow Branch Falls: Another quick 25-minute drive from Seneca, for a bit more challenging hike to the falls, Yellow Branch Falls is a more difficult 3.1-mile trail and takes a little over an hour to complete. There is plenty of parking with free entry and picnic tables. There is no swimming hole but people usually go under the waterfall to cool off, especially in the hot summer months. This waterfall is a beautiful 50-foot fall with multiple cascades and streams. One major tip for this trail is to wear good hiking shoes (and shoes you don’t mind getting muddy) especially if it is wet outside. When the leaves fall in the winter, you can even catch a view of the town of Walhalla.
The Most Hidden Waterfall (ever) Found in SC
Todd Creek Falls, Six Mile: When talking about hidden gems…this one takes the lead. A short 15-minute drive from Seneca is this secret spot. The parking is very limited on a pull-off on Brookbend Road with only a few off-the-road spots, which probably can fit 3 or 4 cars. When I went around sunset I was the only car but I have talked to people who can never seem to get a spot. The hike to the waterfall is a little under a mile (.75 miles) and is a very thin path, enough for a single file line hike and only takes about 20- minutes each way. The hike itself is a little bumpy but not too many hills. If you want to get down to the water, there is a very steep short hill that can be harder for kids. There is a swimming hole at the bottom of the waterfall and plenty of spots to have a picnic on a blanket.
Party at a Waterfall in South Carolina on Lake Keowee
Party Cove “The Falls”, Lake Keowee: For a more lively experience, on the North End of Lake Keowee is Party Cove, and it’s exactly what it sounds like! Accessible by boat, this spot is famous for its social atmosphere. This spot is very popular specifically in the summer months. It is about a 30-minute boat ride from the Seneca side of the lake, but who doesn’t love a boat ride to look at the houses? Speaking of houses, since this waterfall is owned by the HOA at the Cliffs, the homes on the lake around the waterfall are absolutely insane, and probably some of the most amazing houses on Lake Keowee. Anchor your boat, take a swim, and even BBQ on the land near the falls.
Waterfalls in Cashiers, NC (close enough to Seneca)
Whitewater Falls, Cashiers NC: Just over the state line into North Carolina, Whitewater Falls is a must-visit. A 40-minute drive from Seneca, South Carolina is this stunning 400+ foot waterfall. Easily accessible on a short paved trail that is perfect for all ages. The hike has beautiful views of Lake Jocassee and takes only about 15-20 minutes to complete. Parking is available with a $3 charge per car per day with public bathrooms before the hike. Bring your family of all skill levels and your dog on the leash and take in the views of this amazing waterfall!
Silver Run Falls, Cashiers NC: Last but surely not least, Silver Run Falls is a picture-perfect waterfall with a swimming hole and a small beach area that is perfect for a dip to cool off. Located a 35-minute drive from Lake Keowee, and is just 4 miles south of Cashiers, a great opportunity to visit Chattooga Belle Farm. It can get pretty crowded during peak times so be sure to arrive early. When parking, look for the Forest Service Sign on NC-107 to find the parking area with free entry. On the hike, there are many observation points to take in some of the views, but to reach the waterfall itself is only about a .15-mile hike on flat terrain which is perfect for the whole family (and dog on a leash).
Waterfalls in Upstate South Carolina: Worth the Visit
One of our favorite things to do is to get out and see something new and explore hidden gems. Each of these waterfalls has its own unique charm and they all showcase the beauty of Upstate South Carolina near Lake Keowee. From easy leisure hikes to those more challenging ones, from swimming holes to splash areas, there is something for everyone.
Your next favorite waterfall adventure is waiting for you!
