Oconee County Real Estate
If you’re looking for an area with inspirational scenery, soothing landscapes, rich southern history, and a strong sense of community, then look no further. The upstate of South Carolina is renowned for these qualities and the beautiful area of Oconee embodies outdoor adventure with a laid back lifestyle.
Making your home in Oconee County will guarantee a relaxed, enjoyable life whether you’re retired and looking for a quiet place to pursue a hobby, or have a family and need a variety of fun activities for every weekend. There are endless opportunities for a broad range of demographics.
History
The word, “Oconee” originated from the Cherokee Native Americans and its most well-known translation is land beside the water. Oconee holds value in its agriculture, numerous lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, and its desirable location in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Located at the northwestern tip of South Carolina and bordering both Georgia and North Carolina, Oconee is 625 square miles of pure upstate beauty. The current population is 79,906 and continues to grow as its fertile farmlands, outdoor recreation, and position as the gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains attract more and more people.
Once Cherokee Indian territory, Oconee was organized following a treaty in 1868 and developed as an area of abundant farms because of its fertile soil and comfortable climate year-round – and these remain attractive qualities today!
Oconee played a prominent role during the American Civil War and is home to numerous museums and veteran memorials throughout the county. The war also interrupted the efforts of the Blue Ridge Railroad Company to build a railway line through Oconee to connect Anderson to Tennessee and ultimately to the West. Today, you can visit Stumphouse Park and see the unfinished Stumphouse Tunnel – a popular landmark that exists as a reminder of how the war interrupted railway progress.
Scenery
Oconee is revered for its scenic landscapes of rolling hills, primitive and protected forests, and pristine lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Real estate is abundant and available in quiet, wooded neighborhoods, secluded cul-de-sacs with back porch views of the lake, and even popular communities minutes from downtown areas.
The lakes are Oconee’s pride and joy for both locals and tourists alike. Watersport enthusiast? There’s a plethora of boat and jet ski rental locations surrounding Lakes Keowee, Hartwell, and Jocasee. There are also plenty of opportunities for those who love to fish, including the annual Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American on Lake Hartwell. Many of the nation’s best anglers come to Oconee for this event!
The Chattooga River also runs through Oconee and offers rafting and kayaking in areas for safe, family fun as well as for experienced whitewater thrill-seekers. And if the lakes and rivers aren’t enough, there are many gorgeous waterfalls accessible by hikes ranging from easy to strenuous. Isaqueena Falls, located near Walhalla, is one of the most popular waterfall hikes. A great, beginner-friendly hike leads you to a stunning 100-foot cascading waterfall 15 minutes from the trailhead.
Oconee’s geography is a true example of living history. The forests, farmlands, and bodies of water are fondly maintained by hard-working park employees and wonderful community members involved in the preservation of history and pristine beauty.
Community
Beyond its history and scenery, what makes Oconee so pleasant is its delightful community. The majority of Oconee are homeowners who enjoy sunsets on their porches, holiday block parties, summers on the lake, and various downtown gatherings.
Seneca’s historic downtown area, known as “Ram Cat Alley,” hosts “Jazz on the Alley” – a weekly evening of music, food, drinks, and dancing. The walkable streets of downtown Seneca offer a variety of shops, restaurants, art galleries, and drinking holes.
Smaller communities such as Walhalla and Westminster offer quieter gatherings. For example, the annual Apple Festival in Westminster occurs after Labor Day and is a great event for families whose kids are going back to school, or for those who love to bake delicious apple pies or pastries.
Long Creek is home to Chattooga Belle Farm – a 198-acre orchard and farm with a bistro, distillery, and wedding venue. Spend a sunny summer day picking peaches, enjoy some apple whiskey in autumn, or book the springtime wedding of your dreams.
Other communities with family fun and scenic views include Mountain Rest, Salem, Tamassee, West Union, and Fair Play – all with year-round activities, rich biodiversity, lake-life charm, and warm and inviting neighborhoods.
Cities & Towns In Oconee County
