Looking to move to the Seneca area? Realtor, David Locke with Locke & Key Associates has mapped out a driving tour of Oconee County, South Carolina, that includes information about neighborhoods, high-end gated communities, and Clemson University:
Starting Point: Seneca
Seneca Historic District: Begin your tour in downtown Seneca, known for its historic charm and vibrant culture. Explore the Seneca Historic District, where early 20th-century homes and buildings set the tone for a picturesque start to your day.
Ram Cat Alley: Stop by Ram Cat Alley, a lively area filled with unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Grab a coffee and stroll around to take in the local culture.
Neighborhoods: Seneca offers a variety of neighborhoods, ranging from quaint, historic areas to modern developments. Cross Creek Plantation is one of the standout neighborhoods, offering an upscale lifestyle with a private golf course and beautiful homes set in a serene environment.
Stop 1: Lake Keowee
Driving Directions: Head north on SC-130 from Seneca towards Lake Keowee.
About: Lake Keowee is a stunning reservoir with crystal-clear waters, perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Gated Communities: As you drive along the shoreline, you'll pass by several high-end gated communities, such as The Cliffs at Keowee Falls and The Reserve at Lake Keowee. Stop at South Cove County Park for a picnic and public lake access.
Stop 2: Keowee-Toxaway State Park
Driving Directions: Continue north on SC-130 to Keowee-Toxaway State Park.
About: This park provides an excellent introduction to the Blue Ridge Mountains, with hiking trails and a visitor center showcasing the area’s natural beauty.
Stop 3: Clemson University
Driving Directions: Drive east on SC-133 to Clemson University.
About: Clemson University is a major landmark, known for its academics and sports culture. Visit Tillman Hall, Memorial Stadium (“Death Valley”), and the South Carolina Botanical Garden.
Stop 4: Walhalla
Driving Directions: Head west on SC-11, then take SC-28 to Walhalla.
About: Walhalla, a town with German roots, features Main Street shops, cafes, and the Oconee Heritage Center.
Neighborhoods: Walhalla offers a mix of historic homes and new developments.
Stop 5: Stumphouse Tunnel and Issaqueena Falls
Driving Directions: Continue on SC-28 from Walhalla to Stumphouse Tunnel Road.
About: Visit the historic Stumphouse Tunnel and nearby Issaqueena Falls. Also consider the hike to Yellow Branch Falls.
Stop 6: Oconee State Park
Driving Directions: Take SC-107 north from Walhalla to Oconee State Park.
About: Oconee State Park offers hiking, paddleboats, and rustic cabins for overnight stays.
Stop 7: Chattooga River
Driving Directions: Continue north on SC-107 and then west on Long Creek Highway to the Chattooga River.
About: The Chattooga River is famous for its whitewater rafting opportunities. If you’re adventurous, consider booking a rafting trip, or simply enjoy the serene views of this wild and scenic river.
Final Stop: Westminster
Driving Directions: Drive south on SC-28 to reach Westminster.
About: Westminster is a charming small town with a nostalgic feel. Explore the town’s antique shops and historic downtown area. Westminster is also known for its annual Apple Festival in the fall, a vibrant event celebrating the local apple harvest.
Neighborhoods: Westminster features neighborhoods that range from historic homes in town to larger properties in the surrounding countryside. Foxwood Hills is a notable lakefront community on Lake Hartwell that offers residents access to resort-style amenities.
End of Tour: Return to Seneca
Driving Directions: From Westminster, take US-123 east back to Seneca to complete your tour.
This expanded driving tour of Oconee County not only showcases the natural beauty and history of the area but also highlights the variety of neighborhoods and high-end gated communities that make this region a desirable place to live. Whether you’re exploring the lakefront communities, enjoying the vibrant college town atmosphere of Clemson, or discovering the quaint charm of its small towns, Oconee County offers something for everyone.
Call Realtor, David Locke for housing and land options in Upstate SC at (864) 940-0575. Please use caution as you drive and confirm all directions. David is here to help anyway he can during your tour and will happily setup home showings along the way.
Here are some hashtags for the driving tour of Oconee County, South Carolina:
General Hashtags
Neighborhoods and Communities
- #SenecaSC
- #LakeKeowee
- #GatedCommunities
- #HighEndLiving
- #KeoweeFalls
- #TheReserveAtLakeKeowee
- #FalconsLairGolfClub
- #FoxwoodHills
- #ClemsonLiving
Nature and Outdoor Activities
- #LakeKeoweeViews
- #KeoweeToxaway
- #OconeeStatePark
- #ChattoogaRiver
- #IssaqueenaFalls
- #StumphouseTunnel
- #WaterfallChasing
- #WhitewaterRafting
