Located on the southern shores of Lake Joacassee, this would seem the ideal winter getaway for paddlers interested in exploring the the lake’s many fingers. And it is — for more experienced paddlers. The waters here (especially the open water) can get choppy due to the winds that funnel out of Jocassee Gorges, more of an issue in winter when cold air and water temperatures turn a spill from a refreshing annoyance into a life-or-death ordeal. A good place to have your roll down. On a still, clear, crisp winter day, however, the lake is a treat.

Anglers will like a winter getaway here as well. Lake Jocassee is the only in South Carolina featuring both trophy trout and smallmouth bass.

More info: 864.944.2639, South Carolina Parks

Google locator map

Photo: LakeJocassee.com
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Address: 161 Holcombe Circle
City: Salem
State: SC
Zip: 29676
Latitude: 34.9516
Longitude: 82.9464
No. of campsites: 84
No. with hookups: 59
No. without hookups: 25
Primitive sites: none
Reservations? 866.345.7275, or here
Cost: $20-22 with hookups, $16 (less in offseason)
Year-round? yes
Gate hours: opens daily at 7 a.m., closes at 6 p.m. late fall to mid-spring, 9 p.m. mid-spring to late fall.
Quiet hours: yes
Stuff to do nearby: paddling, hiking