Looking for a relaxing way to spend a beautiful day? Head to Keowee-Toxaway State Park. One of eight South Carolina State Parks along the edge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment, Keowee-Toxaway State Park straddles Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway (Hwy. 11) between Devils Fork State Park and Long Shoals Wayside Park.
Known for spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the 1,000 acre park is a gateway to the Jocassee Gorges, an area defined by a series of steep-sided gorges delivering mountain rivers and streams down to the Piedmont of South Carolina. It’s also a great place for family fun!
Things to do at Keowee-Toxaway State Park
Have a picnic
Highway 11 splits the park, and the picnic shelters are on a short loop to the south. Five picnic shelters are available to rent. The picnic tables and free-standing grills throughout the park are available on a first come, first served basis.
Stop at the Visitor Center
Once you’ve finished your picnic lunch, head across Highway 11 to the north part of the park. The Visitor Center houses exhibits about the natural diversity and history of the park and its importance as a scientific research destination.
If you’re looking to check out the Visitor Center, office hours are 11 am to noon and 4 – 5 pm. Despite these short hours, the park is open daily from 9 am – 6 pm. After Daylight Saving Time, the park is open until 9 pm. Keowee-Toxaway State Park is free to the public.
Hike and creek stomp
There are 5.5 miles of trails to explore at Keowee-Toxaway State Park. The two main routes are the Raven Rock Trail and the Natural Bridge Trail. Both begin at the trailhead located behind the park office, making it easy to start your adventure.
The Natural Bridge Nature Trail is a 1.5-mile loop, and at its far end you’ll find the spur for the Raven Rock Trail. Combining the two creates a 4.4-mile round-trip hike to Raven Rock and back. This hike is perfect for families ready for a longer outing with rewarding views.
Be sure to grab a Keowee-Toxaway State Park trail map before you head out to navigate the area with confidence.
Natural Bridge Trail
Hiking the Natural Bridge Loop clockwise begins with a peaceful stretch alongside Poe Creek, where you’ll pass several small waterfalls. Before long, you’ll reach the junction with the Raven Rock Trail offering beautiful views of Lake Keowee as it winds past rock outcrops and a boulder field on the way to Raven Rock.
Continuing the loop back on the Natural Bridge Trail, you’ll cross Poe Creek on the trail’s namesake—an impressive natural rock “bridge.” From there, the trail leads through an upland hardwood forest before returning you to the parking lot.
Lake Trail
The half-mile Lake Trail begins at the campground and winds through the woods before opening up near the park’s villa on the shores of Lake Keowee. It’s an easy, family-friendly walk with opportunities to fish for bass, bream, crappie, and catfish once you reach the water.
Keowee-Toxaway State Park is a great destination year-round, with something special in every season. Spring brings wildflowers along the damp edges of Poe Creek, while late spring and early summer burst with blooming rhododendrons and azaleas. In the heat of summer, the cool waters of the creek are hard to resist, offering a perfect place to splash and unwind. Fall delivers vibrant foliage, and winter rewards visitors with quieter trails and easier parking.
Camp at Lake Keowee
For those who want to stay overnight, Keowee-Toxaway State Park offers a range of camping options. Ten paved sites include water and electrical hookups for RVs up to 40 feet, while the tent camping area features 14 sites with central water, individual tent pads, and fire rings. Restrooms with hot showers and a dump station are also available, making it a comfortable setup for families.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, backcountry camping is available at three designated sites along Lake Keowee. You can reach them by hiking the Raven Rock Trail or paddling in by canoe or kayak. There’s also a primitive group camping area in the backcountry for larger groups. Just be sure to register in advance as reservations are required.
Not into camping? You can still enjoy an overnight stay by booking the park’s three-bedroom villa overlooking Lake Keowee near the boat launch. The fully furnished space includes linens, kitchen essentials, a washer and dryer, satellite TV, Wi-Fi, two fireplaces, and even a private boat dock. Pets aren’t allowed in the villa.
Enjoy Lake Keowee!
Boating: Keowee-Toxaway offers non-motorized boat access to Lake Keowee. To launch a motorized boat, you must go to Fall Creek Landing, five miles southwest of the park.
Fishing: Fishing is allowed. Bass, bream, crappie, and catfish are common catches.
Swimming: Swimming is allowed. However, there are no lifeguards or designated swimming areas in the park. Swim at your own risk.
With easy access to Lake Keowee, three beautiful trails with all kinds of unique natural features, and spectacular views throughout the park, Keowee-Toxaway has plenty to offer. We’ve enjoyed our visits in all four seasons. However, spring has a special magic with the ephemeral wildflowers blooming and trees budding electric green. Head to this gem of a state park and experience the magic for yourself!
A portion of this post originally appeared on Femme au Foyer.
Learn why the Jocassee Gorges are considered one of the most beautiful places in SC (and the US)!