Devils fork

For South Carolinians eager to immerse themselves in some of the state's most pristine natural beauty, Devils Fork State Park Campground stands as an unparalleled destination. Situated on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Jocassee, this cherished state park offers an escape unlike any other, where the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains meet a deep, undeveloped lake. It’s the sole public access point to Lake Jocassee, making it a truly special place for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking tranquility and adventure in the heart of South Carolina.

Devils Fork State Park is renowned for its diverse camping options, catering to a wide range of preferences, from comfortable RV sites with modern amenities to rustic tent sites and even secluded boat-in camping for the truly adventurous. Beyond just camping, the park is a hub for water activities on Lake Jocassee, widely regarded as one of the cleanest and most scenic lakes in the Southeast. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of excellent fishing, thrilling scuba diving, peaceful paddle boarding, or exploring hidden waterfalls by boat, Devils Fork provides the perfect base. Visitors frequently praise the park's natural splendor and the wealth of activities available, ensuring that every trip is filled with unforgettable moments and a deep connection to South Carolina's stunning Upstate region.

Devils Fork State Park is strategically located at 161 Holcombe Cir, Salem, SC 29676, USA, nestled in the scenic Upstate region of South Carolina. This position places it at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing a dramatic backdrop of forested peaks and a refreshing mountain climate. For residents across South Carolina, the park is remarkably accessible, typically within a few hours' drive from major cities like Columbia (approx. 2.5 hours) and Charleston (approx. 4 hours), and only about an hour from Greenville. This makes it an ideal spot for both weekend getaways and extended vacations, allowing locals to quickly reach a world-class natural retreat.

The park's unique significance lies in being the only public access point to the pristine Lake Jocassee. This exclusivity ensures that the lake remains largely undeveloped, preserving its wild beauty. While the park roads within the campground can be narrow and somewhat bumpy, as noted by some RVers, they are generally manageable. Driving directions are straightforward from major routes like I-85 and I-26, leading visitors through picturesque rural landscapes that build anticipation for the stunning lake and mountain views awaiting them. Whether you're towing a large RV, driving a family car, or cycling in, Devils Fork State Park is designed to welcome all visitors eager to experience the natural wonders of the Jocassee Gorges.

Devils Fork State Park Campground provides a comprehensive array of services and lodging options to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay for all types of campers and visitors.

• Standard Campsites: The main lakeside campground features 59 paved sites. These sites are equipped with water and electrical hook-ups (typically 30-amp), 12-foot by 12-foot elevated tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some sites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet in length.
• Rustic Tent Sites: For a more traditional camping experience, there are 25 rustic (tent-only) campsites. These sites come with 12-foot by 12-foot elevated tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. While they do not have water or electrical hook-ups at the site, they have access to restrooms and showers conveniently located nearby.
• Boat-In Campsites: For the adventurous, 25 primitive boat-in backcountry campsites are located on the northern shore of Lake Jocassee at the Double Springs camping area, accessible only by boat. These sites offer a tent pad and firepit, with composting toilets and a few outhouses available in the area. Some sites have water access.
• Restrooms & Showers: Clean restrooms with hot showers are conveniently located within the main campgrounds, accessible to both standard and rustic site campers.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available for RV campers, located near the campground exit.
• Park Store/Ranger Station: A park store, located in the Ranger Station, is open daily and offers limited grocery items, snacks, souvenirs, and firewood.
• Boat Ramps: Four boat ramps provide easy access for launching personal watercraft onto Lake Jocassee.
• Boat Rentals: On-site boat rentals (pontoons, canoes, kayaks, SUPs, jet skis) are available seasonally through a contracted vendor, Eclectic Sun.
• Picnic Shelters: Two picnic shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis for day-use visitors.
• Wireless Internet Access: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available at the Ranger Station and in all villas for park guests. (Note: Not generally available at campsites).
• Daily Trash Pickup: While not explicitly stated for all campgrounds, state parks typically have robust waste management, including bear-proof trashcans and regular collection.

Devils Fork State Park Campground is celebrated for its remarkable natural features and wide array of recreational opportunities, making it a standout destination in South Carolina.

• Pristine Lake Jocassee Access: The park's crown jewel is Lake Jocassee, renowned for its incredibly clear, deep, and cool spring-fed waters. It's the only public access point, preserving its undeveloped shoreline and natural beauty.
• Exceptional Water Sports: The lake is perfect for swimming (no lifeguards, swim at your own risk), kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and jet skiing. Watercraft rentals are available on-site.
• World-Class Fishing: Lake Jocassee is famous for some of the best trout and bass fishing in the Southeast, attracting anglers from far and wide.
• Unique Scuba Diving: Due to its exceptional clarity, Lake Jocassee is a popular destination for scuba diving. Divers can explore submerged remnants of a former town, including a cemetery and a basketball court, offering a unique underwater "Atlantis" experience.
• Hiking Trails: The park offers several hiking trails, including the easy 1-mile Oconee Bell Trail (famous for the rare wildflower blooming in spring) and the 2-mile Bear Cove Trail leading to a Lake Jocassee beach. The Laurel Fork Trail is uniquely accessible only by boat, leading to a scenic waterfall.
• Waterfalls Accessible by Boat: Numerous stunning waterfalls cascade into Lake Jocassee, many of which are only accessible by boat, making a boat tour a popular activity.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome in most outdoor areas and designated campsites, provided they are kept on a leash (pets are not allowed in villas or villa areas unless designated pet-friendly).
• Villas for "Glamping": For those seeking more comfort, the park offers 20 well-appointed villas (15 two-bedroom, 5 three-bedroom), some with lake views, screened porches, flat-screen TVs, and fully stocked kitchens, blending luxury with nature.
• Picnic Areas & Playgrounds: The park includes picnic areas and two playgrounds, one for day-use guests and another specifically for villa guests.

As a South Carolina State Park, Devils Fork offers value-oriented pricing and occasionally runs special promotions. While standard rates apply for daily admission and campsite rentals, visitors can often find seasonal deals.

• SC Park Pass: South Carolina residents can purchase an Annual SC Park Pass for discounted daily access to all state parks.
• Daily Park Admission: $8 for adults; $5 for SC seniors (65+); $4 for children ages 6-15; ages 5 and under are free. Admission is often free on Tuesdays.
• Campsite Rates: Rates for sites with electrical & water hookups typically range from $20-$22/night, while designated tent sites are around $16/night. Boat-in backcountry sites are approximately $4-5/person. Discounted rates may be offered during seasons of lower demand.
• Villas: Two-bedroom villas range from $104-$130/night, and three-bedroom villas from $137-$172/night, with discounted rates in lower demand seasons.
• "Spring Fling Special": The park has offered promotions like 25% off camping and villa reservations during specific booking and stay periods (e.g., March to early April), often requiring a minimum stay (e.g., 2 nights weekday, 3 nights weekend) and using a specific code (e.g., "SPRING"). These are for new reservations only and cannot be combined with other discounts.

For the most current rates, availability, and any ongoing special offers or package deals, it is highly recommended to check the official South Carolina Parks website or call Devils Fork State Park directly. Reservation must be made for a minimum of two nights and can be done online or via their toll-free number. For reservations less than three days in advance, direct contact with the park is necessary.

Ready to plan your unforgettable trip to Devils Fork State Park Campground? For reservations, inquiries, or more detailed information, please use the following contact details:

Address: 161 Holcombe Cir, Salem, SC 29676, USA

Phone: (864) 944-2639

Reservation Toll-Free Number: 1-866-345-PARK (1-866-345-7275)

You can also visit the official South Carolina Parks website for comprehensive information and online booking.

For residents of South Carolina, Devils Fork State Park Campground represents an exceptional and easily accessible natural treasure for a family vacation or a serene personal retreat. Its location in the Upstate offers a relatively short drive for many, yet transports visitors to a world of pristine wilderness that feels miles away from the everyday.

What makes Devils Fork particularly suitable for locals is its unique combination of diverse camping options and the unparalleled recreational opportunities presented by Lake Jocassee. Whether you own an RV, prefer tent camping, or are looking for a unique boat-in experience, there's a perfect spot for every preference. The lake itself is a massive draw, offering some of the clearest water for swimming, world-class fishing, exhilarating water sports, and fascinating scuba diving into submerged historical sites. The option of renting on-site watercraft makes it even more convenient for those without their own boats. The park also provides essential amenities like clean bathhouses, a dump station, and a park store, ensuring comfort even in this natural setting. For South Carolinians, Devils Fork State Park is not just a campground; it's a gateway to one of their state's most cherished natural gems, offering endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and creating lasting memories right in their own beautiful backyard. It's truly a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of the Palmetto State's outdoors.