In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Clemson and Upstate South Carolina have grown from quaint southern towns to full-blown destinations in the past couple of decades. Clemson’s location in the heart of South Carolina makes it easy to get to and well worth the drive, only two hours from Atlanta and three hours from Charlotte. The Upstate is marked with a blend of rolling hills, cultural richness, and Southern charm.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, there's something for everyone in Clemson and the Upstate. Here are five must-do activities in Upstate South Carolina that will make your visit unforgettable. Book your Clemson vacation rental now and get ready to explore!
Quick Overview:
Address: 1220 Chau Ram Park Road, Westminster, SC 29693
Trail Length: Short walk to falls from parking lot; 3+ miles of additional river trails
Difficulty: Easy to waterfall (universally accessible); rugged on upper ridge trails
Waterfall Height: 40 feet
Admission: $3 per vehicle
Restrooms: clean, well-maintained, handicap-accessible
If you're craving a bit of adventure, Ramsey Creek Falls is a hidden gem that should be at the top of your list. Located just a short drive from Clemson, this tranquil spot offers stunning scenery and the perfect place to cool off during a hot Southern day. After a short, scenic hike through beautiful woodlands, you'll hear the sound of cascading water before coming face-to-face with the 40-foot cascading waterfall. Bring your swimsuit and dive into the natural pool at the base of the falls. It’s a unique experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and connected with nature. The wading pool at the foot of the falls is the perfect place to splash around so don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and a picnic to hang out for a while!
Upstate South Carolina is famous for its gorgeous lakes, and Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell stand out among the rest. Whether you're looking to relax or enjoy some water sports, these lakes offer plenty of opportunities for fun.
Boat Launch / Rental Pickup: South Cove County Park 1099 South Cove Road, Seneca, SC
Pontoon Boat Rentals: From $245/day
Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals: From $40/hr, available on-site at South Cove County Park
Public Boat Launch Fee: $15/launch or $150 annual pass (Keowee Marina, Hwy 123, Seneca)
Lake Keowee is one of the most stunning. With 18,500 acres of crystal-clear mountain water and Blue Ridge views stretching in every direction, it's the kind of lake that makes you want to cancel your plans and stay another day. Rent a boat, find a secluded cove for a swim, or try your hand at paddleboarding and kayaking — the water is that good.
State Park Address: 19138 South Carolina 11, Fair Play, SC 29643
Marina: Clemson Marina 150 Clemson Marina Drive, Seneca, SC 29678
If you're after world-class fishing, Lake Hartwell is your spot. Spanning 56,000 acres along the South Carolina-Georgia border, this lake is legendary among anglers for its bass, crappie, and catfish, but it's just as great for boating, watersports, and lazy afternoons on the water. Between the two lakes, you've got more than enough reasons to spend a full day (or three) out on the water.
Prefer to just chill? Book your vacation rental right on the lake and enjoy a sunset along the shore or from your deck. There's no better way to unwind after a day of adventure, and you’ll never be too far from the water.
Memorial Stadium (Football): 1 Avenue of Champions, Clemson, SC 29634
Ticket Prices: Single-game starts from $68
Buy Tickets: clemsontigers.com/tickets
You can't visit Clemson without catching a game! Clemson University is home to one of the most passionate fan bases in college sports. Whether it’s football at Memorial Stadium (lovingly known as “Death Valley”), basketball at Littlejohn Coliseum, or a baseball game at Doug Kingsmore Stadium, the energy is contagious. Game days are legendary in Clemson, with tailgating that turns into an all-day party filled with delicious food, camaraderie, and, of course, Tiger pride. Even if you’re not a die-hard sports fan, the atmosphere at a Clemson game is something you won't want to miss. It's pure Southern football culture at its finest!
You’ll quickly discover that Clemson and Upstate SC are brimming with mouth-watering Southern food. Here are a couple of suggestions of the best restaurants in and around Clemson.
Address: 108 E Main St, Pendleton, SC 29670 | Facebook
Start your morning at The Village Bakery & Café, a family-run institution on Pendleton Square that's been feeding locals since 1995. The biscuits are famous for a reason, the shrimp and grits are genuinely hard to beat, and the Sunday brunch tends to sell out. It's one of those places where you leave already planning your next visit.
Address: 454 Damascus Church Road, Long Creek, SC 29658 | Instagram
When evening comes around, make the 50-minute drive to Chattooga Belle Farm in the Blue Ridge foothills and don't rush it. This 200-acre working farm, distillery, and vineyard serves up farm-to-table meals with panoramic mountain views that make the food taste even better. Tour the distillery after dinner, grab a tasting of their award-winning spirits, and take a slow stroll through the orchard before heading home.
Finally, history and architecture buffs will love taking a step back in time by visiting two of the area’s most fascinating historic landmarks: the Woodburn and Ashtabula Historic Houses.
Address: 130 History Lane, Pendleton, SC 29670
Regular Tour Admission: $10 adults | $5 students & children (per house)
Built around 1830, Woodburn is a grand four-story plantation mansion in the heart of Pendleton, impeccably preserved by the Pendleton Historic Foundation. Wander through beautifully furnished rooms and hear stories from knowledgeable guides who bring the history of early Upstate South Carolina to life. Come October, the candlelit ghost tours take things up a notch ,all four floors, small groups, and two centuries of haunted history.
Address: 2725 Old Greenville Highway, Central, SC 29630
Just a few miles from Woodburn, Ashtabula is a more intimate antebellum home set on ten quiet acres, filled with original family antiques and period architecture that feels remarkably untouched by time. Tours are available by appointment, making it a peaceful, unhurried experience that history lovers genuinely appreciate. Between the two houses, you get a rich, layered look at what life in 19th-century Upstate South Carolina was actually like.
When you’re considering your accommodation, we recommend booking with our partner Clemson Vacation Rentals. They offer Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell vacation rentals that will leave you in awe. Beyond just a comfortable place to rest, these homes epitomize the relaxation experience with upgraded amenities and well-planned finishings throughout. From private lakefronts and decks to hot tubs and gourmet kitchens, you’ll be living in the ultimate Southern hospitality life.
There is plenty of space to stretch out with friends and loved ones or make it a romantic getaway and create memories that will last a lifetime. Clemson and the Upstate are sure to entertain and indulge you at every turn. If you’re looking for a destination near Atlanta or Charlotte, start your Upstate planning with your vacation rental first and book today!
