Weekend Getaway in Oconee County

Enjoy a weekend getaway to the Upcountry and experience a favorite destination of the outdoorsy crowd: scenic Oconee County.

Located in the northwest corner of the state, Oconee boasts three beautiful lakes - Hartwell, Keowee and Jocassee - the Chattooga River, a designated National Wild & Scenic River and more than 25 waterfalls. Adding to the picturesque landscape is Sumter National Forest and the Blue Ridge Mountains to the north.

Oconee Station State Historic Site, originally a military compound and later a trading post, offers plenty of outdoor recreation and a look at 18th and 19th century South Carolina. There’s a fishing pond and 1.5-mile nature trail that connects to a trail leading into Sumter National Forest and ending at Station Cove Falls.

Where to Stay

Oconee State Park offers a mix of standard and rustic campsites as well as 19 historic cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Constructed of local materials to complement the natural surroundings, the cozy bungalows feature hand-hewn beams, wood floors and stone fireplaces, along with updated bathrooms and kitchens. There's a lodging option to suit your weekend getaway needs.

Finding Grub

Don't miss the ever-popular Steak House Cafeteria, famous for its fried chicken. Yes, you read that right - fried chicken. As the story goes, the restaurant once specialized in steaks. But when it was sold many years ago, the new owners decided to change the menu, but not the name. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, the "Arabian Rooster Fried Chicken" enjoys a certain culinary notoriety.