Best Hiking Trails in Devil's Fork State Park
With the chance to see waterfalls, rare flowers, and possibly even bears, hiking in Devil's Fork State Park is a scenic treat. Trails suited to all ages and ability levels mean you can easily enjoy a walk with everyone in your family, and Devil's Fork State Park cabins are a great base from which to begin hiking.
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1. Bear Cove Trail
See Lake Jocassee as you traverse this unpaved, 2.5mi. trail. You will pass through a forest filled with red maple, oak, pine, and numerous other trees. The trail is full of wildlife, so you might see deer, as well as various birds.
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2. Oconee Bells Nature Trail:
Oconee Bells are a beautiful, endangered white flower that blossoms in the early spring, and can be spotted at that time from this 1.5mi. trail. Enjoy the sounds of the creek and the many benches placed along this route, at any time of year.
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3. Laurel Fork Trail
To get to the 80ft. Laurel Falls waterfall, you have a couple options. You can take a boat from the park's main boat ramp, or you can access the Foothills Trail and hike a fairly strenuous 8.4mi. Either way, you will be rewarded with fantastic views.
Best Family Activities in Devil's Fork State Park
There is wonderful fishing in Lake Jocassee, a beautiful view from the Jocassee Gorge, and a great learning experience to be had by joining one of the Lake Jocassee tour groups. No matter what you decided to do, Devil's Fork State Park hotels make it easy to access it all.
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1. Fishing in Lake Jocassee
This lake is the only South Carolina body of water that has smallmouth bass and trophy trout, and fishing in the clear waters of the lake is perennially popular. Keep in mind you'll need a fishing licence before you can begin angling.
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2. Jumping Off Rock:
Drive to this scenic viewpoint, from which you can see both Lake Jocassee and the Jocassee Gorges. The Gorges have been named by National Geographic as one of "50 of the World's Last Great Places."
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3. Jocassee Lake Tours:
Join a kayak tour to get a different view of the park. You will see quiet coves, unknown beaches, and learn about the park's birds and the local wildflowers.