Devils Fork State Park, near Salem, SC, is the only public access point to Lake Jocassee — the protected, spring-fed lake within the Jocassee Gorges. For buyers, the park anchors the upper reaches of the Lake Keowee corridor and the gateway to some of the most spectacular water in the Southeast.
You can’t own on Jocassee itself, but you can own on nearby Lake Keowee and use Devils Fork as your launch into the Gorges.
About Devils Fork
The park and what it provides.
The Gateway to Lake Jocassee
Devils Fork offers the public boat ramp, villas, and campsites that serve as the launching point for Lake Jocassee’s clear water, deep coves, and boat-access waterfalls.
Boat-Access Waterfalls
From Devils Fork, boaters reach waterfalls that tumble directly into Jocassee — a defining regional experience. Waterfalls & recreation →
Protected Surroundings
Jocassee’s shoreline is almost entirely protected within the Gorges, so the experience stays wild and uncrowded. Jocassee Gorges →
The Real Estate Nearby
Where to own for easy Jocassee access.
Upper Lake Keowee
The Salem and Sunset corridor on the northern end of Lake Keowee puts you closest to Devils Fork and Jocassee. Salem real estate →
Cliffs and Reserve Communities
Several upper-lake Cliffs communities and Old Edwards Reserve sit within easy reach of the park. Communities →
Two Lakes, One Base
Own and dock on Keowee; launch at Devils Fork for Jocassee days — the best-of-both-lakes lifestyle.
The Lifestyle
Living near the gateway.
Wild-Water Recreation
Kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and waterfall trips define days on Jocassee. Kayaking & paddle →
A Quieter End of the Lake
The upper corridor near Salem is among the quieter, more nature-forward parts of the Lake Keowee area.
Year-Round Appeal
Clear water in summer, foliage in fall, and trail access year-round keep the area active across seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions buyers and sellers ask David first.
Can you own a home on Lake Jocassee?
Effectively no — Jocassee’s shoreline is almost entirely protected within the Jocassee Gorges. Buyers own on nearby Lake Keowee and use Devils Fork State Park to access Jocassee.
What is Devils Fork State Park?
The only public access point to Lake Jocassee, near Salem, SC — with a boat ramp, villas, and campsites that serve as the gateway to the lake and its waterfalls.
Where do you buy for easy Devils Fork access?
The Salem and Sunset corridor on the upper, northern end of Lake Keowee is closest to the park and Jocassee.
Can I enjoy both lakes?
Yes — own and dock on Lake Keowee, then launch at Devils Fork for days on Lake Jocassee. Many upper-lake owners do exactly that.
Have a Lake Keowee question?
A 30-minute conversation is the fastest way to get a confident next step.