SOUTH CAROLINA - Renowned for its stunning coastline and historic charm, also boasts impressive inland waterways nestled within its diverse landscapes. When it comes to sheer depth, one lake stands out dramatically from the rest: Lake Jocassee. Located in the state's scenic Upstate region, this man-made reservoir is not only celebrated for its breathtaking beauty but also holds the title of the deepest lake in South Carolina.
The Champion of Depth: Lake Jocassee
Lake Jocassee, situated in Pickens and Oconee counties, is a true mountain gem.
- Maximum Depth: This impressive reservoir plunges to a maximum depth of approximately 300 to 350 feet (about 91 to 107 meters), making it significantly deeper than any other lake in the Palmetto State.
- Formation: Lake Jocassee was created in 1973 by Duke Energy with the construction of the Jocassee Dam, which impounds the waters of several mountain rivers, including the Whitewater, Thompson, and Toxaway Rivers, along with the Horsepasture River.
- Purpose: The primary purpose for its creation was hydroelectric power generation and to serve as the upper reservoir for the Jocassee Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Station.
Crystal Clear Waters and Unspoiled Scenery:
What makes Lake Jocassee particularly special, beyond its depth, is its pristine environment:
- Water Clarity: Fed by calm, clear mountain rivers and springs, Lake Jocassee is renowned for its exceptional water clarity, often allowing visibility to significant depths. This is a key reason for its popularity among divers.
- Undeveloped Shoreline: Much of the lake's 75 miles of shoreline is undeveloped and protected, surrounded by the lush forests of the Jocassee Gorges. Waterfalls cascade directly into the lake from the surrounding cliffs, adding to its stunning natural beauty.
- Temperature: Due to its depth and mountain sources, the water remains cool year-round.
A Haven for Recreation, Especially Diving:
Lake Jocassee's unique characteristics make it a premier destination for various outdoor activities:
- Scuba Diving: The exceptional clarity and depth, combined with submerged features like a flooded former town (Attakulla Lodge), a cemetery, and forests, make Lake Jocassee a top freshwater diving destination in the Southeast.
- Boating: Its 7,500-acre surface is ideal for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic tours.
- Fishing: The deep, calm waters provide excellent habitat for various fish species, including brown trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and black crappie. It's known for producing trophy-sized trout.
- Hiking and Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding Jocassee Gorges Wilderness Area offers numerous hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Accessing Lake Jocassee:
Public access to Lake Jocassee is primarily through Devils Fork State Park, which offers boat ramps, camping, and hiking trails. This limited access helps maintain the lake's pristine condition.
Lake Jocassee unequivocally holds the title of South Carolina's deepest lake, with depths reaching around 300-350 feet. Its combination of profound depth, crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain scenery, and unique recreational opportunities, such as freshwater scuba diving, makes it a true jewel of the Palmetto State. More than just a deep body of water, Lake Jocassee is a pristine wilderness escape and a testament to the natural beauty found in South Carolina's Upstate.
Sources:
- South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR)
- Duke Energy (regarding Jocassee Dam and Lake)
- Devils Fork State Park (South Carolina State Parks)
- U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
- Local tourism and diving outfitters for Lake Jocassee
- Clemson University (for ecological studies of the Jocassee Gorges)
