Lake Jocassee, South Carolina

Devil’s Fork State Park

October 14-22, 2027

Trip Level SK2   SK Trip Guidelines (download)

Trip Leaders: Jim Heichelbech, Linda Decker, Phyllis Malpas

*This is a very popular destination and campsites need to be reserved as soon as possible.

We will camp at Devils Fork State Park (Salem, SC) and paddle Lake Jocassee. The campground is located at the southern end of the lake. Lake Jocassee is a 7,500 acre, 300’ deep reservoir located in northwest South Carolina. The lake is well known for the clean and cold Appalachian mountain rivers that feed the lake to keep its waters cool and clear year-round.

We will do day paddles to the various waterfalls with hiking/biking, etc. on alternate days. There are six waterfalls including Whitewater Falls (811’) that is the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi. Most are accessible by kayak or boat only, however Whitewater Falls is best viewed by hiking via the Foothills Trail or spur trail. You can also access the upper overlook by following a paved ¼ mile walkway from the parking lot. 

Lake Jocassee is an undeveloped reservoir nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Paddlers enjoy crystal clear water, mountain views and many lake-side waterfalls, The reservoir is fed by four major rivers: the Whitewater River, the Horsepasture River, the Toxaway River, and the Thompson River. Devil's Fork State Park is on the south end of the lake. The northern and eastern parts of the lake are bordered by Jocassee Gorges, an area protected and made accessible to the public by SC Department of Natural Resources. 

https://www.gopaddlesc.com/waterways/trail/lake-jocassee

Driving distance: approximately 8 hr 20 min from Indy and 6 hr 45 min from Cincy

The main body of Lake Jocassee is rather large at the southern end so conditions vary with the weather. While lake conditions are usually fairly calm, winds can whip up quickly producing waves. In general we expect L2 conditions although, there may be optional paddles greater than 10 miles. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for bio breaks and to stretch.

Expected Temperature: Daytime highs upper 60s, Overnight 40s

Paddling Clothing: Prepare for possible water temperature possible 50s

Boat requirements:  14’ or greater kayaks with fore/aft bulkheads and perimeter deck lines are required. Spraydeck required.

Itinerary:

Friday evening, Oct 15 – arrive and set up camp. 

Saturday, Oct 16 – Thursday Oct 21 – explore the lake, waterfalls, hike, bike, etc. Exact paddling schedule TBD. 

Friday, Oct 22 – break camp and drive home