Summary
South Carolina is located along the Atlantic Coast of Southeast USA and is recognized as one of the original 13 States. Established primarily by affluent plantation owners and their enslaved individuals in the latter half of the 17th century, the state has significantly evolved over time. Notably, the initial shots of the Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter. Today, South Carolina presents a diverse range of attractions for visitors, characterized by sub-tropical beaches and appealing offshore islands.
The state encompasses approximately 50 state parks, and with a population of five million residents complemented by numerous visitors, there are abundant opportunities to appreciate the natural landscape. For those fascinated by the state’s waterways, here are 15 exceptional waterfalls in South Carolina worth exploring, with many situated in the upstate region.
1. Lower Whitewater Falls, Oconee County
In terms of height, Lower Whitewater Falls ranks among the highest in the eastern USA. While impressive waterfalls are located further up the Whitewater River in North Carolina, the falls in South Carolina undoubtedly provide fantastic photographic opportunities.
Parking is available, and the hike to this 200-foot waterfall requires a moderate effort of a two-mile trek leading down into Jocassee Gorge.
Visitors can admire the cascading water from the observation platform, experiencing the power of the falls.
2. Long Creek Falls, Oconee County
The most effective way to approach Long Creek Falls is via a raft on part of the Chattooga River.
These multi-tiered falls reach a height of 50 feet; however, they are not navigable by raft.
While a hiking route exists, it is not officially marked, and the final stretch is considered challenging due to steep inclines.
Disregard the left fork leading to the river and continue onward to arrive at the base of these stunning falls.
Rest at the bottom, as the return climb is steep.
3. Opossum Creek Falls, Oconee County
The pathway leading to Opossum Creek Falls spans four miles and is suitable for families, provided children are comfortable walking.
Dogs are permitted if leashed.
The creek offers a refreshing retreat during warmer weather, although swimming is not advisable in winter due to cold temperatures. Hikers will cross the creek twice before reaching the falls, which descend about 50 feet in a series of cascades.
The trail descends to the creek, a popular area for kayakers.
Continuing onward leads to the base of the falls.
4. Pigpen Falls, Oconee County
Although Pigpen Falls descend only a short distance in two cascades, they certainly warrant a more appealing name than ‘Pigpen,’ despite their relatively modest size.
Located near the more grandiose Licklog Falls, the route involves crossing Licklog Creek over a bridge just before Pigpen Creek merges with it.
Shortly thereafter, choose the left-hand fork and Pigpen Falls will be ahead.
The upper tier is often obscured by vegetation, but visitors can enjoy swimming in the pool at the base of the lower tier.
5. Licklog Falls, Oconee County
Licklog Falls consists of a series of cascades that divide into two distinct tiers.
If one continues along the trail past Pigpen Falls, the top of Licklog Falls can be reached swiftly.
The upper tier stands about 30 feet tall, with the water flowing into a basin, whereas the lower tier has a more substantial flow that directly enters the Chattooga River.
It is possible to descend to the base of the falls, although the descent is quite steep.
Using a wide-angle lens will enable you to capture the entire cascade in a single photo.
6. Brasstown Falls, Sumter National Forest, Oconee County
This picturesque location in Brasstown Valley features three distinct cascades that total 120 feet in height.
From the base, all three cascades can be viewed simultaneously, making it an ideal spot for photography.
Each cascade is uniquely named: Cascades, Veil, and Sluice.
The location is conveniently near parking facilities, making access easy.
While cooling off in the inviting water isn’t a necessity, it certainly offers relief on hot days.
The beautiful setting enhances the vibrant colors of the waterfall, creating an unforgettable sight.
7. Spoonauger Falls, Sumter National Forest, Oconee County
Located near the Georgia border, these 50-foot falls are only a 20-minute walk along a delightful trail lined with trees and shrubs.
Water cascades down the rock face in small steps, leading to a pool where one can find relief on warm days.
They are remarkably powerful, providing an impressive sight.
Children enjoy the pool but must be swift to catch the elusive salamanders in the area, as they are quick and slippery.
However, exercise caution, as the rock steps are slippery, making entry into the falls inadvisable.
8. King Creek Falls, Sumter National Forest, Oconee County
If your itinerary focuses on waterfalls, King Creek Falls can easily be combined with Spoonauger Falls.
Situated near the Chattooga River along the Georgia border, these falls are taller, reaching 70 feet.
The water flows down in stages through a wide gorge, differing from the stepped design of Spoonauger Falls.
The route to the falls includes a simple half-mile walk, where visitors can sit and enjoy the refreshing spray.
Basic camping facilities are available in close proximity, within a five-minute drive.
9. Issaqueena Falls, Sumter National Forest, Oconee County
The trail leading to the top of these falls consists of a brief 15-minute walk.
A short distance away lies an excellent vantage point for optimal viewing.
One narrative explaining the falls’ name recounts the tale of a young indigenous woman who leaped from the summit in an attempt to escape.
She was fleeing from members of her tribe who disapproved of her involvement with a local silversmith.
The positive resolution of the story is that she survived and later moved to Alabama with her husband.
10. Yellow Branch Falls, Walhalla
If waterfall twins existed, Yellow Branch Falls and Issaqueena Falls would be the top contenders due to their similar dimensions, each approaching 50 feet in height and around 75 feet in width.
Accessing Yellow Branch presents some challenges, with the hike potentially taking a couple of hours.
Hikers will navigate the creek multiple times and are rewarded with a serene environment upon arrival.
This location offers a direct view of the falls, providing excellent photography opportunities.
Flow during the summer tends to be limited, as these falls are seasonal in nature.
11. Twin Falls, Pickens County
This destination features two cascades along Reedy Creek.
The higher cascade measures 75 feet as it tumbles off a large granite slab.
The second fall, though shorter, is still a remarkable sight as it projects water at a 45-degree angle towards the larger fall.
Visitors can reach the falls easily within minutes, enjoying stunning views.
Whilst closer views are possible along the trail, the experience does not significantly improve, and take caution as the rocks can be slippery, posing potential hazards.
If a refreshing dip is desired, it is advisable to seek alternative locations.
12. Laurel Fork Falls, Pickens County
Those who appreciate hiking will need to invest more than five hours on the Foothills Trail to witness these falls.
The trail includes several wooden staircases, presenting an exhilarating hike both up and down.
Overnight camping may be required for this excursion.
Alternatively, a more relaxing approach involves viewing the falls from Jocassee Lake via boat.
Visitors will be treated to a crescent-shaped grotto where water cascades 80 feet directly into the lake.
The falls are particularly spectacular after periods of substantial rainfall.
13. Falls Creek Falls, Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area
Standing at 125 feet high, Falls Creek Falls ranks among the finest in South Carolina.
Access to the site can be challenging, requiring notable effort regardless of the selected trail.
The Falls Creek Trail is comparatively short, under two miles, yet features several steep sections with a total ascent of 600 feet.
Alternatively, Hospital Rock Trail spans just over five miles and offers a more rigorous experience culminating at the opposite side of the falls.
A variety of flat rock ledges presents excellent scenic views that can yield memorable photographs.
14. Raven Cliff Falls, Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area
Raven Cliff Falls are undeniably breathtaking.
At 420 feet tall, these falls attract numerous visitors who come to behold their beauty.
The water cascades from Raven Cliff Mountain, with an invigorating trail leading to a stunning viewpoint.
The trek to the overlook takes approximately 90 minutes, making the anticipation worthwhile.
Generally regarded as a moderate trail, it is advisable for teenagers and adults, while it may pose challenges for young children.
15. Rainbow Falls, Jones Gap State Park
Visiting Rainbow Falls during springtime offers not only a magnificent view of water cascading 100 feet from steep cliffs but also the opportunity to admire wild azaleas in full bloom.
A series of cascades lies below the main waterfall.
However, enjoying this beautiful location along Cox Camp Creek comes with its challenges.
Although the walk exceeds a mile and a half, hikers must contend with an elevation gain of over 1,000 feet.
During the dry weeks of summer, the falls may lose some of their impressive allure; therefore, selecting your visiting time wisely is essential.
