Kayaking & Nature at Devils Fork State Park, SC

Devils Fork State Park, located near Marietta in South Carolina, offers one of the clearest and most scenic lakes in the region. As a unique outdoor destination centered around the pristine waters of Lake Jocassee, the park provides a remarkable experience for kayaking enthusiasts, boaters, and nature lovers alike. Known for its crystal-clear lake fed by waterfalls and surrounded by steep cliffs and dense hardwood forests, Devils Fork showcases a range of outdoor activities that invite visitors to connect deeply with the natural beauty of the South Carolina Upstate.

The park’s standout feature is Lake Jocassee itself, a reservoir renowned for its clarity and low boat traffic, presenting an idyllic setting for paddle sports and exploring secluded beaches that appear when water levels drop. Kayaking tours or rentals enable adventurers to glide across calm waters for hours, taking in breathtaking views of surrounding granite bluffs and catching glimpses of waterfalls spilling into the lake. You might even spot local wildlife such as black bears or bald eagles, contributing to the wilderness experience.

For visitors eager to extend their stay, Devils Fork also offers campsites with easy access to the lake, making it an ideal base for multi-day exploration. Hikers and anglers appreciate the diversity of trails and fishing spots, while boat tours highlight the region’s natural waterfalls and scenic points. Like many lakes fed by rainfall, water levels fluctuate significantly, revealing sandy beaches when low that provide perfect picnic spots and swim areas.

Devils Fork State Park holds a special place in the region’s outdoor recreation offerings. Established in 1990 and managed by the South Carolina Department of Parks, it protects Lake Jocassee’s pristine waters and surrounding natural habitat. Unlike busier lakes nearby, Devils Fork combines seclusion with stunning beauty, attracting those who seek peaceful days on the water or quiet nights under the stars. Whether paddling through calm coves, spotting wildlife, or camping lakeside, visitors find a refreshing experience that is uniquely grounded in this corner of South Carolina’s wilderness.