Last Updated on December 15, 2022 by Eric
Do you love the tranquility of being surrounded by beautiful water and winding, pristine coastlines?
Are you dreaming of the perfect lakefront property to buy (or build) your next home?
If so, then two great options for your dream home are Upstate South Carolina’s famed Lakes: Keowee and Hartwell. Both offer stunning natural beauty with unparalleled access to excellent recreational activities like fishing, camping, hiking, and more.
Buying property in either of these lakes will provide you with a lifetime of memories and relaxation. But in this guide, we’ll explore these breathtaking locations in depth—comparing Lake Keowee vs Hartwell so that you can find the ideal spot for your next home.
Lake Keowee
Lake Keowee is located in Oconee County and is known for its pristine beauty and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The 18,500-acre lake is surrounded by gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it the perfect place to relax or take a leisurely, scenic stroll along the shore.
And there’s plenty of shore—with approximately 300 miles of shoreline and coves to explore!
Property buyers in this area who happen to be outdoor enthusiasts can also take advantage of some great hiking opportunities around the numerous waterfalls that Upstate South Carolina is known for.
Lake Keowee is also home to several marinas, campsites, and recreational areas. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, and other water sports. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the lake’s multiple boat ramps and marinas, and anglers will find a variety of fish species to try their luck with—including bass, catfish, crappie, and trout.
Property seekers will find a variety of waterfront real estate options around Lake Keowee, from cozy townhomes to luxurious estates. There are several communities of note, including The Reserve at Lake Keowee, The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards (and at Keowee Springs), and Keowee Key. Living near this lake gives residents access to a variety of amenities, such as golf courses, restaurants, and shopping centers.
For homebuyers looking for an ideal location on Lake Keowee, Seneca is a great option to find a lake home for sale. This charming town offers quick access to both downtown Clemson and Greenville while still allowing residents to enjoy everything that South Carolina’s Golden Corner has to offer.
Lake Hartwell
Head just a little bit southeast from Lake Keowee, and you’ll soon find yourself at Lake Hartwell, South Carolina’s second largest lake (and the largest recreational lake in the Southeast U.S.). Lake Hartwell is located just 30 minutes from Clemson University and offers plenty of amenities for those who want to live near the water.
This vast body of water spans over 56,000 acres across Georgia and South Carolina, making it the ideal destination for anyone looking for waterfront property in either state. Like Lake Keowee, it’s also packed with plenty of recreation opportunities including fishing tournaments, marinas, boat ramps, campgrounds, parks, and more!
A great spot on Lake Hartwell for potential home buyers is in Anderson County—specifically the Anderson, SC/Lakefront area. This area provides easy access not only to downtown Anderson but also nearby cities like Easley and Greenville as well as Clemson University itself. It’s also known as one of the best spots on the lake due to its abundance of wildlife and scenic views—perfect if you want a beautiful view while still being close enough to visit whatever city you choose!
Just as good of a choice for lakefront living is on the opposite bank, near the Townville area of Lake Hartwell. This area is known for its large, beautiful lake houses and luxurious estates. Being located a stone’s throw from Clemson—and arguably Greenville, depending how far you can throw—you’ll find just as many amenities nearby as well.
Keowee or Hartwell?
For a peaceful getaway that’s still close to “city” amenities, both Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell have a lot to offer. With breathtaking views, recreation opportunities, and plenty of real estate options, you can easily find something that’s perfect for you. So don’t hesitate to start your search today.
With this guide to the lakes of Upstate South Carolina, you can easily find the perfect spot to buy property or to settle down. And whether it’s Lake Keowee or Lake Hartwell—you really can’t lose.
Whichever of the Great Lakes of The Upstate you choose, you’ll be sure to have more than enough to keep you busy and enjoying life on the lake. Happy house hunting!
South Carolina Lakefront Properties for Sale
Whether you are looking for an exciting weekend getaway or a relaxing retirement home; whether you prefer mountainside views or riverbank serenity; when it comes to finding your dream lakefront home consider two of South Carolina’s best lakes to buy property, Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell.
With great options available along both lakes, ranging from towns like Clemson and Seneca with plenty of amenities nearby, or secluded lakefront homes with private docks nestled among trees and rolling hills—finding your perfect spot has never been easier. Start your property search today with Bob Hill Realty, and find your next dream property on the shores of South Carolina’s lakes!
