Last Updated on October 19, 2022 by Eric
Have you been searching for a lakefront home in The Palmetto State? Then you’ll want to head to the Upstate region.
This area is known for its beautiful lakes and ample opportunities to enjoy the water. There’s a reason people around here refer to them as the “Great Lakes of the Upstate.” Lake Keowee, Jocassee, and Hartwell are all large, beautiful, and ideal for finding your forever home, an investment opportunity—or just a place to get away from it all.
If you know where to look, you can find truly breathtaking lakefront homes and homesites for sale on the shores of these lakes. While you’ll find world-class fishing, golf courses, boating, and high-end lakefront living throughout this region, each of these lakes has its own unique character that draws people to it. So, whether you’re looking for a quiet place to retire or a lively spot for summer vacations, you’re sure to find the perfect lake home for you.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most highly-desired lakes to buy waterfront real estate in South Carolina, and see what makes each of them unique:
Lakes of Upstate South Carolina
Lake Hartwell
Many people trying to find a lakefront home in South Carolina will start their search with Lake Hartwell. This lake is massive—it’s over 56,000 acres of water with over 962 miles of shoreline. That’s more than twice the shoreline of the entire state of Rhode Island! It’s a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, and there are often several lake homes on Lake Hartwell available for sale.
Lake Hartwell is the meeting point for three rivers: the Savannah River, the Seneca River, and the Tugaloo River. As you might have guessed given its colossal size, Hartwell is actually the largest recreational lake in the southeastern United States—perfect for raising a family, retiring, or just a summer getaway.
Lake Keowee
If you’re looking for a smaller, less-populated lake that still has a plentiful shoreline to buy or build a home, consider Lake Keowee. At 18,000 acres (approximately 1/3 the size of Lake Hartwell) its “Christmas tree” shape means it still has over 300 miles of shoreline. And did I mention it’s absolutely gorgeous? Keowee is most well-known for its stunningly clear, sparkling waters that blend between emerald and sapphire hues as you explore its extensive branches and coves. The fishing is excellent here as well, with plentiful bass, catfish, and trout all waiting to be caught.
If you’re looking for a private golf or boating community, Lake Keowee is where you want to start your lakefront real estate search. Communities like Keowee Key, The Cliffs at Keowee Springs and The Reserve at Lake Keowee put world-class golf courses and amenities practically at your doorstep—while still providing that sought-after lakeside lifestyle.
Don’t worry—while there’s plenty of shore available, there are limits on building so as not to overcrowd the lake for the residents.
Lake Jocassee
If you love water, wilderness, and waterfalls, then you’ll definitely want to check out Lake Jocassee. It’s been called the “Lake Tahoe of the East” for its clear, deep waters and surrounding mountains—not to mention the breathtaking waterfalls that cascade directly into the lake. It’s a beautiful spot for camping, fishing, hiking, and picnicking. And while it’s not as large as Lake Hartwell or even Lake Keowee, at 7,500 acres it’s still plenty big—with approximately 75 miles of pristine shoreline.
Intersected by the Thompson River, Toxaway River, and Whitewater River, it’s known for its views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area, in addition to its largely undeveloped shores. While all of the Great Lakes offer the possibilities for peaceful lakeside living, Lake Jocassee is perfect for those who want to find a lakefront home where they can truly get away from it all. With its focus on exclusive, high-end real estate, it’s rare to find houses or lots for sale on Lake Jocassee—so if you’re interested in finding a lakefront home here, don’t wait too long to start your search.
Lake Cherokee
If you’re looking for a smaller lake, check out Lake Cherokee—a true hidden gem among the Great Lakes of the Upstate. This private, stream and spring-fed lake is a beautiful, but lesser-known place to buy real estate, and it’s a great option if you’re looking for a quieter setting. Lake Cherokee is only about 222 acres (compared to Lake Hartwell’s 56,000). It’s perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, tubing, or just relaxing and taking in the view from the deck of your new lakefront home.
Finding Lakefront Homes for Sale in Upstate South Carolina
If you’re looking for a lakefront home in South Carolina, the Upstate is the place to be. With so much gorgeous lake real estate to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a place to raise a family on a large lake with endless recreation opportunities, or an even more exclusive, luxury lakefront home, the Upstate has it all. So come on down and take a look—you might just fall in love with one of these beautiful lakes.
