Lake Keowee, South Carolina: A Hidden Gem (Not Lake Kiwi!)

Lake Keowee, South Carolina, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Known for its pristine waters, breathtaking Blue Ridge foothills scenery, and multiple recreation opportunities, it’s a favorite destination for locals and travelers alike. 

But let’s clear something up right from the start—it’s Lake Keowee, not Lake Kiwi. Yes, the names sound similar but trust us, there’s a big difference between a stunning South Carolina lake and a fuzzy green fruit. 

Now that you’ve landed on Lake Keowee as a destination, learn all about this gem in the South Carolina Upstate. Discover how Lake Keowee came to be and what you can do on its cool, inviting water.

Overview of Lake Keowee

Lake Keowee is a stunning man-made reservoir in the Upstate of South Carolina. With its crystal-clear blue-green waters and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it lures families and adventurers seeking a true getaway vacation with fun for everyone. Its activities include boating, fishing, water sports, swimming, kayaking, hiking, camping, and picnicking. All the choices make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Some call it a “Christmas tree” because of its shape on the map and because of its “ornaments.” Islands dot the blue waters, making it a fun lake to explore and find your special spot to hang out. The lake winds through the foothills approximately 30 miles west of downtown Greenville, South Carolina.

History of Lake Keowee

Lake Keowee’s rich history dates back to when the area was home to the Cherokee people. The nation had Keowee Town in the 18th century on the Keowee River, which European colonists named the Savannah. Keowee means “place of mulberry” in their language and is romanized as Guwahiyi.

Duke Energy impounded the Keowee River and Little Rivers in the 1970s. The water was intended to cool the company’s nuclear reactors at the new Oconee Nuclear Station, the first of three the company built to power the Carolina region. Duke Energy still manages the nuclear reactors, located about midway on the lake’s western shore.

The construction of the Keowee Dam in 1971 created a massive reservoir. At its base, the dam runs 3,500 feet long and 800 feet wide. A second, slightly lower dam is on the Little River.

Lake Keowee has since become a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts and a crucial source of hydroelectric power for the region.

The Beautiful Location of Lake Keowee

Where exactly is Lake Keowee? Look to Oconee County, with the shoreline located near Seneca, SC. This picturesque lake stretches over 18,500 acres. At 26 miles long and over 300 miles of shoreline, it stretches into Pickens County. Lake Keowee boasts an average depth of 53 feet, plunging to a maximum depth of 155 feet. Fresh mountain streams and Lake Jocassee feed the lake water, giving it its renowned clarity. 

Imagine shimmering clear waters surrounded by lush forests and wildlife—it’s nature’s masterpiece. The surrounding landscape is a picturesque tapestry of rolling hills, scenic valleys, and dense forests. The Blue Ridge Mountains backdrop completes the postcard-worthy view. That quiet yet majestic scenery is why Lake Keowee quickly became a popular retreat. Paddleboard at sunrise, take a refreshing dip in the afternoon, or sit by the shore and watch the sunset—it’s a place where time slows down, and you can truly reconnect with nature.

Today, Lake Keowee and Seneca are desirable locations for vacation homes. Their beautiful views and access to recreational activities, matched with modern amenities, are perfect for a serene getaway or to call home full-time.

Lake Keowee Climate

The Upstate region enjoys mild weather most of the year. Warm, muggy summers are perfect for bringing out all the water toys, with July average highs peaking at 90F. Hot days are the perfect contrast to the lake’s cool waters. The heat gives way to mild winters, with January posting averages of 53F/35F for the high and low. Occasional snow or ice mixes in with winter rains, but not usually enough to worry about a snow shovel. The mild climate invites year-round exploration around the shores of Lake Keowee.

Why Do People Call It “Lake Kiwi”?

Now, about the whole “Lake Kiwi” confusion—it’s a mix-up that’s more common than you’d think. The name “Keowee” has Cherokee roots, tying this lake to the Native American heritage of the region. On the other hand, “kiwi” is, well, a fruit (and a delicious one at that). The confusion largely stems from how close “Keowee” sounds to “kiwi,” especially when spoken quickly.

Even GPS systems aren’t immune to the error, often auto-correcting “Lake Keowee” to “Lake Kiwi.” It doesn’t help that some businesses and websites have inadvertently adopted this misspelling, perpetuating the myth of a nonexistent “Lake Kiwi.” Spoiler alert: You won’t find a lake if you search for Lake Kiwi in South Carolina. But you will end up at Lake Keowee if you’re lucky.

Activities and Attractions Around Lake Keowee

What makes Lake Keowee such a fun destination is the variety of activities available in its sparkling waters and surrounding areas. It’s a prized South Carolina lake, but it’s not the only one featured in the region. Lake Jocassee, known for its abundant trout population and stunning natural beauty, is also a prime destination for outdoor activities, particularly fishing and water sports.

Water Recreation

Lake Keowee is a playground for water lovers. Rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard and explore its expansive waters. Many local businesses offer boat rentals for visitors, making it easier than ever to experience the lake from the water. Choose from pontoons, ski boats, and deck boats to take out all your family members. Some rental facilities on Lake Keowee provide water skis alongside various boats and watercraft options. Jet-skiing across the lake is always a good idea if you’re up for a thrill. 

Multiple marinas have private boat slips for those wanting to store or leave their craft in the water. The lake even has a sailing club with regattas and a cup series. For those bringing their boat, find ten different public access areas with boat ramps spread across the upper and lower lake.

Fishing

Waiting for your hook are multiple sport species, making Lake Keowee a hotspot for anglers. Popular fish species include spotted bass, catfish, and trout. The occasional largemouth bass and crappie appear on the lines. While you can fish year-round, spring and early fall are often considered the best times to cast your line. The clear waters add a challenge to the catch, requiring stealth and a patient approach.

Hiking & Nature

The trails surrounding Lake Keowee are just as breathtaking as the lake itself. Explore nearby hidden waterfalls, some of which are best reached by boat. Or venture into the mountains for a rewarding hike. The fall is the prime season to experience the Upcountry outside. Photographers and birdwatchers take note—this is a prime location to capture nature in all its glory. 

Not sure where to go? Keowee-Toxaway State Park is a prime spot for hiking with two well-marked loop trails, camping, and a zipline. It has shoreline access for swimming, but no lifeguards are present. Mile Creek Park in Pickens County also has camping available near the shoreline. Table Rock State Park is just a short drive, too.

Events and Festivals

The communities around Lake Keowee host events and festivals throughout the year, catering to different interests and age groups. Some popular events include:

• The Keowee Sailing Club Regattas: Held in the summer, their two-day event attracts sailors from across the region. It offers thrilling races around the buoys and fun sails around the lake’s islands.
• SenecaFest: Downtown Seneca’s summer festival features live music, delicious food, and homemade arts and crafts.
• 4th of July Fireworks: Celebrate American independence with multiple firework shows over Lake Keowee. Local parks host gatherings with food trucks and live music.
• The Oconee County Fair: A beloved local tradition, the S.C. Foothills Heritage Fair showcases live music, exciting rides, and exhibits highlighting local agriculture and crafts.

These events and festivals are fantastic opportunities to experience the local community around Lake Keowee.

Golfing

Spend a day on the verdant fairways with the mountains and lakes as your backdrop. Oconee County has three championship-style golf courses to play. That includes a Jack Nicklaus-designed 18-hole course and the Clemson University golf course.

Other Things to Do

Is it a rainy day that has everyone feeling cooped up? Visit the World of Energy, Duke Energy’s educational visitor center at the Oconee Nuclear Station. Its exhibits explain how the station generates power and uses the water. The center is free to visit and an excellent picnic spot on clear days.

Take a road trip on the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway. The scenic trip crosses over Lake Keowee while also running by the Poe State Forest and Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Area.

Visiting Lake Keowee

Spring and early fall are ideal times to enjoy what’s around the lake. Summers buzz with activity along the waterfront, while winters offer a quieter, more serene experience. Fishing and gorgeous views are on-point all year round. 

Closest Towns and Accommodations

Seneca and Clemson are the closest towns. Seneca, SC, radiates small laketown charm with cute art galleries and boutique shops downtown. Clemson University is the centerpiece of Clemson, SC; Tiger Pride is at every turn in this college town.

Visitors will find charming accommodations, restaurants, and local shops in these towns’ downtown districts and outlying areas. 

Greenville is a little farther, but still easy to visit. This hub within Upstate South Carolina has more diverse entertainment options, including museums, a famous art festival, scenic riverfront parks, and dining experiences. 

Whether you prefer lakeside cabins, cozy inns, or modern hotels, you’ll find options that suit your style.

Safety Tips and Conservation

To ensure your visit is enjoyable for everyone, practice water safety and follow conservation guidelines. Certain lake areas have special sign postings, as they are known for underwater hazards or unusual currents that have caused drownings. The area called “The Rock” is particularly dangerous. Jumping off is not advised. No lifeguards are posted anywhere along the lakefront.

Otherwise, the water usually tests clean. Mountain streams feed the lake, adding to its clarity. 

Lake Keowee is a natural treasure. Keeping it that way requires a collective effort from both visitors and residents.

Real Estate & Living

Lake Keowee is not only a vacation destination; it’s also a place many choose to call home. With its lovely surroundings and easy access to outdoor fun, it’s no wonder real estate here is in demand. 

Living by a lake is many people’s dream, and Lake Keowee makes it possible. Private and public communities like White Harbor, Keowee Key, and The Cliffs at Keowee Springs are on its peninsulas. They mix the lakefront lifestyle with organized neighborhoods with perks like golfing or private docks.

Explore all types of properties. Lake Keowee has cozy lakefront cabins all the way up to luxurious estates in amenity-rich gated communities. A local real estate partner is your guide to buying a home near Lake Keowee.

Call It Lake Kiwi or Keowee…

No matter how you spell it, Lake Keowee, South Carolina, is a slice of paradise. With its endless recreation, this unmatched beauty is an ideal spot to vacation, own a second home, or make it a permanent place to live. Spread the word, pack your gear, and get ready to create unforgettable memories at this South Carolina gem.