Few things compare to the unspoiled beauty found in the Jocassee Gorges at South Carolina's Lake Jocassee. At 7,500 acres and with just a mere 75 miles of shoreline, it's a long way from being the biggest lake in the state. Especially in comparison to South Carolina's other man-made lakes. However, it is certainly the most crystal clear lake in South Carolina. Ask anyone who has spent a day at, on, or in Lake Jocassee, and they'll tell you it's nothing short of paradise.

Jocassee's clear waters trickle and sometimes pour down the steep faces of her surrounding mountains.

Among the largest of the contributing rivers is the Whitewater River, known for its two-part waterfall where the Upper Falls are in North Carolina, and by the time the water gets to the Lower Falls, it's in South Carolina territory.

Among the other large rivers that contribute to the lake are the Toxaway, the Horsepasture, and the Thompson.

Bring your canoe or kayak, or rent one, and paddle up one of the river pathways to your own little shady spot in paradise. The Toxaway is a good one for this.

On the other hand, some rivers and creeks don't simply meander into the lake.

They drop, spill, cascade, and roar down the mountain to keep Lake Jocassee filled with cold and clear mountain water, making it the clearest lake in SC.

There are numerous ways to explore this gorgeous, clear lake in SC, including those that are more unconventional.

Those with a dive certification can explore the great depths of this crystal-clear underwater playground to discover the legendary town at the bottom of the lake. Lake Jocassee Dive Shop, located a few miles away in Salem, can provide all the necessary info, equipment, and dive tours, if you're interested.

Prefer to see things on TOP of the lake and along the shore instead?

Take a guided boat tour to see all of the waterfalls that flow into the lake, or at least the ones accessible by boat! So much fun.

The same boat tour company will also ferry you over to some of the hidden beaches.

If you don't own a boat, a lake tour is an excellent way to see the best sights. We suggest booking through Jocassee Lake Tours. The tours depart from the main dock at Devils Fork State Park.

At Devils Fork State Park, a third party rents kayaks and canoes at reasonable rates.

Tours are relatively inexpensive and allow visitors to discover their own emerald lagoon.

And, there are more than enough emerald lagoons to go around.

Time your visit for the height of a sunny day and the water will seem to glow as the sun reflects upon the sandy bottom of the lake. So beautiful!

Lake Jocassee is perfect for wildlife spotting.

Whether you're spotting prey on top of the water, or the fish swimming around underneath your kayak or boat, it's fun to witness how much the wildlife, too, love this crystal clear lake.

Unless you own a house on the lake, your best option for an overnight stay is at Devils Fork State Park.

The park offers a number of well-appointed cabins (most with views of the lake) that have everything you'll need for a peaceful getaway; just bring linens and food.

Prefer a more rustic experience? Bring the camper and enjoy the two campgrounds at the state park; one of them even has designated walk-in tent sites that aren't too far from the parking area.

Don't have an RV? Consider renting one from RVShare.com.

Spending the night means you'll get to experience something none of the day visitors do: The sunrise over Lake Jocassee.

I think this is certainly one of the most incredible places in the state. Have you visited this clear lake in South Carolina? If so, we'd love to hear your tips and tricks for making a visit special. Let us know in the comments.

The Jocassee Gorges was designated as One of the World's Last Great Places in 2012 by National Geographic. Once you experience this fantastic lake within the Gorges, you'll undoubtedly see why. The best public access to the lake is via Devils Fork State Park. The park is open year-round beginning at 7 a.m. However, closing time depends on the season. You can learn more and start planning your visit by visiting the official Devils Fork State Park website.