Lake Keowee

Lake Keowee is a large reservoir located in northwestern South Carolina within the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, forming part of the upper Savannah River system. Created in the early 1970s, the lake covers approximately 18,500 acres and is known for its clear water and deep basin. Its position upstream of Lake Hartwell gives it an important role in regional hydropower generation and water management.

The shoreline is highly irregular, with long winding coves, steep forested banks, and rocky points that drop quickly into deep water. Much of the surrounding land remains lightly developed, contributing to relatively stable water quality and clear visibility. Submerged creek channels, sloping shorelines, and open main-lake areas create a range of aquatic habitats across the reservoir.

Lake Keowee supports a clear-water warmwater fishery with established populations of largemouth bass, spotted bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish. The lake is owned and managed by Duke Energy, which oversees hydropower operations, shoreline management, and long-term environmental stewardship while maintaining public access and recreational use.