Guide to Top Public Schools Near Lake Keowee, SC

When families consider moving to Lake Keowee, SC, the conversation often starts with the obvious — the pristine lake, the mountain views, and the laid-back lifestyle. But for parents, one question quickly moves to the top of the list:

“What are the schools like?”

Lake Keowee spans both Oconee County and Pickens County in Upstate South Carolina, giving families access to two strong public school districts. Each district offers a mix of high-performing elementary, middle, and high schools, along with advanced academic programs, extracurricular activities, and supportive community environments.

If you’re planning a move to the area, here’s a closer look at the public school options you’ll want to know about before deciding where to live.

Oconee County School District

Much of the Lake Keowee shoreline falls within the School District of Oconee County. Known for its close-knit school communities, solid academic programs, and strong athletics, this district consistently earns high marks from parents.

Elementary Schools

• Keowee Elementary School (Seneca) – Serves many Lake Keowee-area neighborhoods, known for small class sizes and a strong emphasis on early literacy.

• Ravenel Elementary School (Seneca) – Offers STEM initiatives and active parent involvement.

• Northside Elementary School (Seneca) – Recognized for a focus on student leadership programs and technology integration.

Middle Schools

• Seneca Middle School – Offers honors courses and a range of sports and fine arts programs.

• Walhalla Middle School – Known for strong academic support programs and extracurricular diversity.

High Schools

• Seneca High School – Offers Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletics, and a respected fine arts program.

• Walhalla High School – Known for career and technology education options in addition to college-prep coursework.

Oconee County Highlights:

• Graduation rates above the state average

• Award-winning robotics and STEM teams

• Active booster clubs supporting arts, sports, and academics

Pickens County School District

The eastern side of Lake Keowee — including areas closer to Clemson — is served by the School District of Pickens County. This district is highly regarded for academic excellence, teacher quality, and community engagement, and benefits from its proximity to Clemson University, which partners with local schools for enrichment programs.

Elementary Schools

• Six Mile Elementary School (Six Mile) – Consistently high test scores, strong community ties, and active parent organizations.

• Clemson Elementary School (Clemson) – Offers a diverse learning environment with a focus on STEM and the arts.

Middle Schools

• R.C. Edwards Middle School (Central) – Provides honors and gifted programs, a wide range of extracurricular clubs, and competitive sports.

High Schools

• D.W. Daniel High School (Central) – One of the highest-rated high schools in the state, known for its AP program, athletics, and academic achievements.

Pickens County Highlights:

• Above-average standardized test scores across grade levels

• Multiple AP and dual-enrollment opportunities for high schoolers

• Strong connections with Clemson University for mentorship and enrichment

How to Choose the Right Public School Near Lake Keowee

When choosing where to live around Lake Keowee, consider more than just the home itself — think about how each school district might serve your child’s unique needs.

Here are a few tips to help you make the best decision:

1. Check School Attendance Zones – School boundaries can be surprisingly specific around Lake Keowee, so verify the assigned schools for any property you’re considering.

2. Visit the Schools – Take a tour, meet teachers, and get a feel for the school environment.

3. Review State Report Cards – South Carolina’s Department of Education provides detailed data on performance, class size, and graduation rates.

4. Talk to Local Parents – First-hand experiences can provide insight beyond test scores.

5. Consider Commute Time – Lake Keowee’s shoreline is expansive, and some schools may be up to 30–40 minutes away depending on your home’s location.

Final Thoughts

Living near Lake Keowee means more than just a beautiful home on the water — it also means access to high-quality public education in both Oconee and Pickens counties. Whether you value advanced academics, strong sports programs, or a small-town community feel, there’s a public school option to match your family’s priorities.

If you’re relocating to Lake Keowee, I can help you match neighborhoods to school districts so you find a home that fits your lifestyle and your child’s educational needs.

📞 Contact Eric Stegall – Lake Keowee Real Estate Pro
Let’s find the perfect home in the perfect school district for your family.