Last Updated on March 10, 2023 by Eric
Lake Keowee is a picturesque artificial reservoir located on the border of Oconee and Pickens counties in South Carolina. The lake was created in 1984 as part of the Keowee-Toxaway hydroelectric project initiated by Duke Energy, and it has become the second-largest man-made freshwater reservoir in the country, with a vast area of 18,372 acres and a maximum depth of 155 feet. (Source: South Carolina Department of Natural Resources)
The lake is situated near several towns that offer a variety of amenities and attractions:
- Clemson, located approximately 30 minutes north of Lake Keowee, is perhaps the most well-known town in the immediate area. Home to Clemson University, a major public research institution with a renowned football program, Clemson offers a vibrant college town atmosphere with a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural events. The town also boasts several parks and green spaces, including the South Carolina Botanical Garden and the Larry W. Abernathy Waterfront Park, which offers a boardwalk and stunning views of Lake Hartwell.
- To the south of Lake Keowee is the town of Seneca, a historic town with a charming downtown area and several notable landmarks. One such landmark is the Lunney House Museum, a restored Victorian-era home that now serves as a museum and cultural center. The town also offers several parks and recreational areas, including the Shaver Recreation Complex and Keowee-Toxaway State Park.
In addition to these towns, the area around Lake Keowee is home to several other smaller communities, each with their own unique character and charm. From the quaint small-town feel of Walhalla to the upscale amenities of The Cliffs and The Reserve, there’s something for everyone in this area.
The closest larger cities to Lake Keowee are Greenville, located approximately 45 minutes to the east, and Asheville, located approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to the west.
- Greenville is a thriving city with a vibrant downtown area, offering a variety of dining, shopping, and cultural options, as well as several parks and green spaces
- Asheville, known for its artsy vibe and stunning mountain scenery, offers a lively downtown area with unique shops, restaurants, and galleries, as well as several outdoor attractions, including the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Biltmore Estate.
Both cities offer easy access to major airports, making travel to and from the area convenient.
The Lake Keowee Real Estate Market
The location’s real estate market has witnessed significant growth, primarily due to its many picturesque lakeside properties. Potential homebuyers can choose from a wide range of properties, mostly consisting of extravagant estates and luxurious homes. Custom homes for sale on Lake Keowee exude an impeccable charm, with a combination of elegant design and durable construction.
The Reserve at Lake Keowee is a private residential golf community that offers lakefront homes and lots, as well as golf course properties. The Reserve features a world-class golf course, a clubhouse with dining options, and a marina with boat slips. The community also offers a variety of amenities such as a fitness center, a swimming pool, and tennis courts.
Another nearby community is Keowee Key, a gated community located on the shores of Lake Keowee. Keowee Key offers a variety of homes and lots, ranging from single-family homes to townhouses and condos. The community features its own golf course, clubhouse, marina, and tennis courts, as well as a fitness center, swimming pool, and walking trails.
Other nearby communities include Waterford Pointe, Wynward Pointe, and The Cliffs at Keowee Springs and Vineyards, each offering their own unique real estate opportunities and amenities.
Overall, the real estate market around Lake Keowee offers a diverse range of properties and communities to choose from, with something to suit every taste and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious waterfront home in South Carolina, a gated community with ample amenities, or a place where you can practice your golf game close to home on some of the most beautiful courses in the country—you’re sure to find what you’re looking for around Lake Keowee.
With stable property values and a high demand for lakefront properties, buying real estate in this area can be both a wise choice for both personal enjoyment as well as those looking for investment properties.
Exclusive Lakefront Properties
The serene atmosphere of Lake Keowee’s residential properties is one of the many reasons that potential homebuyers are flocking to the area. Homeowners and residents around here relish this unique sense of seclusion—complemented by the presence of a limited number of businesses and even celebrities who frequent the area. The exceptionally peaceful environment of Lake Keowee homes provides a slower pace of life, allowing residents to enjoy the finer things in life.
The tranquil residential experience of Lake Keowee ensures little traffic noise or congestion issues, with low crime rates providing peace of mind for homeowners, especially those who come here to raise families.
Located Near an Abundance of Outdoor Beauty & Recreation
The area around the lake boasts an abundance of scenic hiking trails, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The hiking trails meander through rolling hills and dense forests, offering stunning vistas at every turn.
Lake Keowee itself is also a haven for avid anglers, with its crystal-clear waters, varied fish species, and ample mooring opportunities. The lake is home to a variety of game species for fishermen—including bass, trout, and catfish.
What are the Seasons Like When You Live on Lake Keowee?
Spring and summer around Lake Keowee are simply stunning. The temperatures rise to the mid-70s to mid-80s (Fahrenheit), with nighttime temperatures staying in the comfortable 60s. The abundance of sunshine, coupled with the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape, creates the perfect environment for outdoor activities. The vibrant colors of blooming flowers and verdant trees add yet another layer of natural beauty to this area, offering a flawless setting for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
However, the fall season in Lake Keowee is especially breathtaking, with vivid colors transforming the landscape into a mesmerizing work of art. As the leaves turn, the landscape becomes a kaleidoscope of reds, yellows, and oranges.
Mild winter temperatures provide a perfect opportunity to take in the beautiful landscape and scenery surrounding the lake in cooler weather. While swimming may not be feasible during the winter months, residents of Lake Keowee properties can still enjoy the peace and quiet of the season and cozy up to the warmth of a fireplace. Overall, Lake Keowee’s mild winters provide a welcome change of pace, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the many outdoor activities offered throughout the year.
Ideal Properties for Families and Nature Enthusiasts
The area’s rich history, picturesque lakeside properties, and abundance of outdoor activities make it an ideal place for families and nature enthusiasts. Its unique blend of natural beauty, exclusive lifestyle, and high-quality amenities make it a desirable location for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Takeaways
Lake Keowee offers an exclusive living experience with a host of benefits, making it a desirable location for real estate buyers of all kinds. With its stable property values, low crime rates, and exceptional schools, Lake Keowee is an ideal location for families and retirees alike.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an angler, or simply looking for a home or lot for sale that will allow you to live an idyllic lakeside lifestyle, Lake Keowee offers something for everyone:
- Exclusive lakeside living with a unique sense of seclusion
- Peaceful environment with little traffic noise and parking issues
- Abundance of outdoor activities, including scenic hiking trails and fishing opportunities
- Four beautiful seasons with vivid colors transforming the landscape
- Ideal for families and nature enthusiasts
- Desirable location with stable property values, low crime rates, and exceptional schools
- Offers an exclusive living experience with high-quality amenities
- Suitable for real estate buyers of all kinds, from families, to boaters, to nature enthusiasts, to retirees.
Consider buying a home on Lake Keowee—and experience the magic of this exceptional location for yourself.
