The mountain lakes in South Carolina attract many visitors all year long, especially in the warmer months - and this is doubly true for the state parks located on the shores of the lakes. However, there is one lakefront South Carolina state park in the mountains that is usually overlooked due to its proximity to a neighboring park that gets much more publicity. If you have yet to visit Keowee-Toxaway State Park, then prepare for a peaceful adventure in a park that's less busy than its neighbor, Devils Fork State Park.

Keowee-Toxaway State Park is located in Sunset — and a mere three miles as the crow flies from Devils Fork State Park (eight miles, if you're driving).

It's nestled within the stunning Jocassee Gorges with lovely blue water and mountain vistas galore. You'll find a variety of ways to enjoy nature and the great outdoors.

Any visit to this state park should include a hike on the 4.4 mile Raven Rock Loop Trail.

The hike includes a bit of a climb and is rated as moderate for all hikers.

From a perch on top of Raven Rock, you'll be looking down upon Lake Keowee...

And out over a section of the Jocassee Gorges seldom seen or promoted. On the way to Raven Rock, you'll pass the trailhead to one of South Carolina's natural wonders known as Natural Bridge — a large flat granite rock that crosses over a swiftly flowing creek. Most hikers say these two trails are best between April and October.

After the hike, it won't be difficult to find a spot to take a dip in the lake to cool off.

South Carolina State Parks makes it very clear that swimming is at your own risk in this park; in fact, they make it clear they don't even provide a swimming area. Yet, people seem to find the cool, clear water of Lake Keowee irresistible, especially on a hot, summer day.

If you want to spend the night at Keowee-Toxaway State Park, then you'll have several options.

But keep in mind, overnight accommodations, in general, are limited. (Another thing we LOVE about this state park!) Plan ahead and enjoy the fact that the campground won't be overrun with other people.

If glamping is more your style, plan well in advance and snag the only rental cabin in the park.

It's located right on the edge of the lake, has three bedrooms, and can sleep up to 10 people. Renovated in 2015, the cabin has all of the comforts of home and a private dock for your enjoyment.

If you need accommodations for a large group, then be sure to check out the newly opened (April 2019) Camp Cedar Creek group camp.

Unlike the campground, this group site leases as a unit and comes with three bunkhouse cabins, 10 rustic tent sites, an oversize group fire pit on the edge of the lake, and a lodge that includes a large meeting room/mess hall and kitchen facilities. For small reunions or scout groups, this is the way to go!

One of the best things about Keowee-Toxaway State Park? The sunsets!

The next best thing? Admission is totally free... a bit of a rarity for a park of the caliber. Enjoy it and all that Keowee Toxaway State Park has to offer this summer!

With hiking trails, mountain vistas, camping, fishing, canoeing, and more, Keowee-Toxaway is poised to become one of your favorite spots in the mountains of the Palmetto State. Have you visited this state park in South Carolina? We'd love to hear about your experience and see your photos. Join the discussion in our comments!

Keowee-Toxaway S.P. is open year-round. Admission is free. The hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; during daylight saving time (cold weather months) the park closes at 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 8 p.m. on Friday. Learn more on the official website for South Carolina State Parks!

Address: 108 Residence Drive, Sunset, SC, 29685