Salem South CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Salem, South Carolina.
1. Devils Fork State Park
LAKE AND OUTDOOR PARADISE
Devils Fork State Park is Salem's premier destination for outdoor recreation, offering direct access to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Jocassee. Visitors enjoy activities such as hiking, swimming, boating, and camping amid scenic mountain surroundings. The park is also renowned for its spring bloom of the rare Oconee Bell wildflower and a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities.
2. Jocassee Valley Brewing Company
CRAFT BREWS & TAPROOM
Jocassee Valley Brewing Company offers a laid-back taproom experience with locally brewed craft beers, specialty sodas, and a rotating selection of food trucks on weekends. The brewery also hosts live music and community events, making it a lively gathering place for both locals and visitors. Patrons can enjoy their drinks in the indoor taproom or on the pleasant outdoor patio.
3. Jocassee Lake Tours
GUIDED LAKE ADVENTURES
Jocassee Lake Tours provides nature-focused boat tours led by knowledgeable guides, showcasing the pristine scenery and hidden waterfalls of Lake Jocassee. Guests can explore the Jocassee Gorges, learn about local ecology, and even spot rare flora and fauna along the lake's shoreline. Tours are available for all ages and skill levels, offering a memorable way to experience this unique wilderness.
4. The Little Brair Patch
GIFT & SPECIALTY SHOP
The Little Brair Patch is a charming specialty and gift shop in Salem offering a curated selection of local crafts, souvenirs, and home décor. Visitors enjoy browsing one-of-a-kind items perfect for gifts or keepsakes from the area. The store has a welcoming atmosphere and is a favorite stop for those exploring downtown Salem.
5. Jocassee Keowee Rentals
BOAT RENTALS & TOURS
Jocassee Keowee Rentals specializes in convenient boat rentals on both Lake Jocassee and Lake Keowee, providing all the equipment necessary for a day on the water. Customers can choose from pontoons, kayaks, and other vessels, with delivery services right to public docks. This is a popular option for families and groups seeking to explore the lakes at their own pace.
6. Eclectic Sun LLC
KAYAK & PADDLEBOARD RENTAL
Eclectic Sun LLC offers kayak and paddleboard rentals on Lake Jocassee, located at the entrance to Devils Fork State Park. The business provides safety equipment and advice for all skill levels, making lake exploration fun and accessible. Staff members are known for their friendly service and helpful orientation sessions for beginners.
7. Southern Outlaw Adventures
CUSTOM BOAT CHARTERS
Southern Outlaw Adventures offers guided boat tours and fishing charters on Lake Jocassee, tailored to guests' interests and experience levels. Tours include sightseeing, fishing, and visits to remote waterfalls accessible only by water. The company is praised for its personalized service and knowledgeable captains.
8. Jocassee Outdoor Center
OUTDOOR GEAR & ACTIVITIES
The Jocassee Outdoor Center serves as a gateway for visitors seeking adventure on Lake Jocassee and Lake Keowee, offering rentals, gear, and guided trips. In addition to boats and paddlecraft, the center provides fishing supplies and advice for exploring the lakes and surrounding forests. It is a convenient stop for outdoor enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
9. Bad Creek Spur Trail
MOUNTAIN HIKING TRAIL
Bad Creek Spur Trail is a scenic hiking route leading through lush forests and culminating in picturesque views of the Jocassee Gorges area. The trail is popular with hikers and nature lovers, offering opportunities to spot native plants and wildlife. It connects to larger trail networks for those seeking longer hikes.
10. Bee Cove Falls
SECLUDED WATERFALL HIKE
Bee Cove Falls features a series of cascading waterfalls nestled within the mountains near Salem, accessible via a moderately challenging hiking trail. The falls are surrounded by untouched wilderness, making them a favorite spot for photography and quiet nature appreciation. The hike offers a rewarding sense of discovery for those who make the trek.
11. Oconee Bell Nature Trail
WILDFLOWER WALKING TRAIL
The Oconee Bell Nature Trail, located within Devils Fork State Park, is the best spot to see the rare and beautiful Oconee Bell flower in its native habitat each spring. This easy loop trail meanders through rich woodlands and along small streams, ideal for hikers of all ages. Interpretive signs educate visitors about the region's unique flora.
12. Station Cove Falls
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WATERFALL
Station Cove Falls is a picturesque 60-foot waterfall located near Walhalla, a short drive from Salem. The gentle, well-marked trail to the falls makes it a favorite among families and casual hikers. The area is especially beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom along the path.
13. Oconee Station State Historic Site
HISTORIC SITE & TRAILS
Oconee Station State Historic Site preserves a pair of 18th and 19th-century stone buildings that once served as a military outpost and trading post. Visitors can tour the historic structures, hike connecting trails, and learn about early frontier history in the region. Scenic surroundings and an abundance of wildlife make it a fascinating cultural and natural stop.
14. Black Bear Lodge and Saloon
RUSTIC DINING EXPERIENCE
Black Bear Lodge and Saloon is a popular dining destination just outside Salem, offering hearty American fare in a cozy, mountain-themed setting. Guests enjoy dishes such as steaks, seafood, and Southern specialties, often with live music or special events on weekends. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a staple for both locals and visitors exploring the lakes.
15. Little River Coffee Bar
COFFEE & CAFÉ TREATS
Little River Coffee Bar is a beloved café in nearby Walhalla, known for its artisanal coffee, fresh pastries, and light breakfast and lunch options. The café provides a warm and inviting space to relax before or after sightseeing. Many visitors praise the friendly service and local charm.