A Comparison of Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell, South Carolina

South Carolina is blessed with stunning natural beauty, and its lakes are no exception. Among the most prominent are Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell, each offering a unique blend of recreation, serenity, and natural wonder. Let's dive into a comparison of these two beautiful bodies of water, exploring their size, depth, fishing, boating opportunities, clarity, history, and more.

Lake Keowee:

Size: Lake Keowee, located in the Upstate region of South Carolina, boasts an impressive surface area of approximately 18,500 acres. Its expansive waters provide ample space for various recreational activities.

Depth:  With an average depth of around 50 feet and maximum depths reaching up to 155 feet, Lake Keowee offers plenty of depth for both fishing enthusiasts and water sports. 

Fishing: Anglers flock to Lake Keowee in pursuit of its abundant fish population, which includes species such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and more. The lake's diverse ecosystem provides ample opportunities for both novice and experienced fishermen alike.

Boating: Boating enthusiasts will find Lake Keowee to be a haven for watercraft of all kinds. Whether you're into leisurely pontoon rides, exhilarating water skiing, or peaceful kayaking, this lake has something for everyone.

Clarity: One of Lake Keowee's most remarkable features is its crystal-clear waters. Thanks to the fact that when land removal begain in the 60's every tree was taken down to the stump and removed from the lake, visibility in the lake often exceeds 10 feet, making it a favorite destination for swimming and snorkeling enthusiasts.

History: Lake Keowee was created in 1971 with the construction of the Keowee Dam as part of the Keowee-Toxaway Project. The primary purposes of the project were hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply.

Lake Hartwell:

Size: Spanning the border between South Carolina and Georgia, Lake Hartwell is one of the largest and most popular lakes in the Southeastern United States, covering approximately 56,000 acres of surface area.

Depth: While Lake Hartwell is generally shallower than Lake Keowee, with an average depth of around 45 feet and maximum depths reaching up to 185 feet, it still offers ample depth for various activities.

Fishing: Like Lake Keowee, Lake Hartwell is a paradise for anglers. Its waters are teeming with a diverse array of fish species, including bass, crappie, trout, catfish, and more. Whether you prefer fishing from the shore or casting your line from a boat, you're bound to have a rewarding experience.

Boating: Boating enthusiasts will find plenty to love about Lake Hartwell. With over 960 miles of shoreline and numerous marinas and boat ramps, the lake provides endless opportunities for boating, water skiing, tubing, and sailing.

Clarity: While Lake Hartwell may not boast the same level of clarity as Lake Keowee, its waters are generally clear and inviting. However, clarity can vary depending on weather conditions and seasonal factors.

History: Lake Hartwell was created in the early 1960s with the construction of the Hartwell Dam as part of the larger Hartwell Project, which aimed to provide flood control, hydropower generation, and navigation improvements along the Savannah River.

Bottom Line: Both Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Whether you're seeking world-class fishing, thrilling water sports, or simply a peaceful escape into nature, these two lakes deliver in spades. While each has its own unique characteristics and appeal, one thing is certain: both Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell hold a special place in the hearts of South Carolinians and visitors alike, serving as cherished destinations for generations to come.