The South Cove Park in Oconee County, on the
west shore of Lake Keowee, has all the amenities one would expect of a South
Carolina State Park - but it is owned and maintained by Oconee County. This, very popular
park is located on South Cove, and provides easy public access to Lake Keowee. This
location between Seneca and Walhalla also provides our visitors an excellent base from
which to explore the many other scenic and recreation sites in the area. A less well-known
attraction for genealogy and history buffs is the antebellum graveyard here.
Oconee County maintains 86 campsites with
water and power hookups (plus hot showers). There is also a
dump station on site. Camping fee is $15 per night for residents and $17 per
night for non-residents of Oconee County (add $2 for
waterfront sites). Senior citizens (60+) and disabled
visitors receive a $3 discount.
The park has a nice picnic area with 1 shelter
plus a community building (reservations required at $30 per day). The park also features a
playground, tennis and volleyball courts and a nice beach on the lake for
swimmers ("swim at your own risk").
Fishing is allowed (SC state laws apply) and there is good access to the lake via on-site
boat ramp. There is a concession stand; alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited.
The park is
open year round from 7a-10p. There is a $2 parking fee
(included in the campground charge if you intend to stay the night).
Physical location of the park is 415 South Pine Street,
Walhalla. Postal address for the Oconee
County Parks & Recreation Commission is P.O.Box 188, Walhalla SC 29691. Phone:
864-882-5250 or 864-638-4212.
Directions: From the Greenville/Easley area, follow US-123 west toward toward Walhalla.
Just as you are approaching Seneca you will pass the junction of SC-130; nearly 2 miles
further will be SR-28. Turn right onto SR-28. A little over a mile, on your right, is
SR-188; turn right. Continue to the first road on the right (South
Cove Rd); turn right again. It
dead-ends at the park entrance.
From SC-11* at the intersection of SC-28 (at Walhalla), follow SC-28 east toward Seneca.
About 4- miles, on your left, is SR-188; turn left. Continue to the first road on the
right (South Cove Rd); turn right. It dead-ends at the park entrance.
*from I-85, take exit #1 and follow SC-11 north
(you can't go south) to SC-28.
