Getting to Know: Oconee State Park

Summer is in the air and what a wonderful time to enjoy the great outdoors!  One treasure that Upstate South Carolina has is Oconee State Park.  Located in Mountain Rest, about an hour west of Greenville, this 1,165-acre park has many fun features to explore. 

Within the park is a lake teeming with fish, such as catfish, bream, and bass, ready for you to claim! Trout are added in cooler months. You can rent fishing boats year-round or use the pier, making the park not only beautiful for views any time of year, but also perfect for avid outdoorsmen and/or fishermen. 

For those simply craving quiet time on the lake, the park provides canoe, pedal boat, kayak, and even paddleboard rentals. 

How about a round of mini-golf?  Yes, Oconee State Park is the ONLY park in South Carolina to have its own mini-golf course on site!  This 18-hole course is located near the campground entrance and is fun for all ages.  You can also enjoy the three playgrounds, one situated next to the mini-golf, for the little ones in your group.

This state park is no stranger to great hiking trails.  There are six nature and/or hiking trails that originate within the park.  Oconee State Park is also an access point for the acclaimed Foothills Trail – South Carolina’s 77-mile trail through the Blue Ridge Mountains! The Palmetto Connector Trail also connects here and you can hike down to Oconee Station and enjoy Station Cove Falls and the historic buildings.

Aside from the major attractions of fishing, hiking, and putt-putt, there are also a few other gems that make for an amazing all-day outdoor adventure. For those craving a little off-the-beaten-path experience, the park has an old-school swimming hole! There are also picnic areas for family meals, and a large covered porch filled with rockers and lounge chairs overlooking the lake. 

Oconee State Park is also a campground with 139 campsites and 19 cabins. To reserve a spot or cabin, you can book online here. There are also day-use group picnic shelters that you can book on the same webpage. 

To learn more about the lake and its various activities, please visit: https://southcarolinaparks.com/oconee/faqs