Lake-Keowee-Upstate-Lake

Lake Keowee is primarily in Oconee County, which is known for its pretty small towns, as well as numerous waterfalls. The lake is a man-made reservoir created to serve the needs of Duke Energy, a local power company.  Lake Keowee is approximately 26 miles long, 3 miles wide, with an average depth of 54 feet.

Duke Energy has management responsibility for not just the lake, but for the shoreline around the lake including docks and walls, and is responsible for the land around the lake up to a specific elevation. The lake was built from 1967 until 1973.

Lake Keowee’s water is fed by Lake Jocassee and nearby mountain rivers. Parts of the lake extend into Pickens County, which is directly east and adjacent to Oconee County.

Access to Lake Keowee

Lake Keowee with over 300 miles of shoreline has a lot of room to enjoy the water. The lake is generally more accessible to the public with boat ramps maintained by the Oconee County government and Duke Energy. There are various places on the lake accessible to the public.

Lower Lake Keowee can be accessed through the following:
South Cove County Park
Cane Creek Access
High Falls County Park
Stamp Creek Access Area
Keowee Marina
Warpath Access Area

Upper Lake Keowee can be accessed through:
Mile Creek Park
Crow Creek Access Area
Keowee Towne Landing
Fall Creek Access

Lake Keowee Rules and Regulations

The lake is maintained and managed by different local governments and agencies to ensure the natural ecology of the areas is maintained. Duke officials manage requests for piers, docks, and other shoreline structures. While real estate developers need permission from Duke Energy, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, resource agencies as well as community residents before building on large lots.

For lake information, please visit:

Duke Energy Lake Use Permitting
Duke Energy Lake Levels
Duke Energy Recreation Information
Keowee-Toxaway Habitat Enhancement Program
Keowee-Toxaway Drought Management
Oconee Nuclear Station World of Energy

Recreation in Lake Keowee

boating on Lake Keowee

Outdoor recreation and sporting enthusiasts will want to take advantage of Lake Keowee, it is one of the Upstate’s summertime water recreation spots. It is a popular destination for swimming, boating, water skiing, fishing, and wakeboarding.

Also, the rugged terrain of the Blue Ridge Mountains offers a perfect spot for hiking, camping, bird watching, or simply enjoying the nature.

Check out other things to do near Lake Keowee.

Restaurants in and around Lake Keowee

  • Copper River Grill
  • Dienners Kitchen
  • Solé Grill and Sushi Bar
  • The Lighthouse Restaurant & Event Center
  • The Tiki Hut Lakeside Grill
  • The Club at Keowee Key
  • Atami Express
  • China Inn
  • Joe’s New York Pizza
  • Applebee’s Grill + Bar
  • Bojangles
  • 313 Cafe

Click here to see more information about these Lake Keowee restaurants.

Lake Keowee Distance from Hot Spots

Living at Lake Keowee offers easy access to the metropolitan life of arts, culture, and entertainment in nearby cities. With all of these attractive features, it’s easy to see why Lake Keowee has become increasingly popular as a retirement or relocation destination.

Clemson University
14 miles from Clemson University
36 miles from downtown Greenville, SC
Atlanta Georgia
125 miles from Atlanta, GA

Real Estate in Lake Keowee

Real estate developments have started to sprout up all along the shores of this mountain lake since the 1970s because of the beautiful views of the mountains and the recreational activities it offers.

There have been 110 separate communities that have popped up along the lake’s 300 miles of shoreline since the lake’s formation. Other real estate developments that were built in Lake Keowee include a mountain top golf course and recreation complex which made the lake attractive for retirees as well as persons seeking a weekend retreat.

Click here to see homes for sale in Lake Keowee.

Rental Homes in Lake Keowee

Lake Keowee offers rental properties with panoramic views. Whether you’re traveling with family or with friends you will find vacation homes or rental properties in Lake Keowee.