The History of Lake Keowee | How and When Lake Keowee Was Built in Seneca, SC

by Eric Stegall

The Fascinating History of Lake Keowee: How It Was Made and When It Was Built

If you've ever spent time boating, fishing, or relaxing along the shores of Lake Keowee in Seneca, SC, you may have wondered how this beautiful lake came to be. Whether you're planning to move to Lake Keowee or you're just a local history buff, the story behind Lake Keowee’s creation is nothing short of remarkable.

When Was Lake Keowee Built?

The origins of Lake Keowee trace back to the early 1960s. In 1965, Duke Energy introduced the Keowee-Toxaway Project, a massive $700 million undertaking designed to support both power generation and recreational development in the Upstate South Carolina region.

By April 1970, the gates at the Keowee Dam were officially closed, marking the final impounding of Lake Keowee. Commercial hydroelectric operations began in April 1971, followed by the Oconee Nuclear Station in 1973.

How Was Lake Keowee Made?

The journey to build Lake Keowee was a feat of engineering:

1965: Duke Energy unveiled plans and began acquiring licenses.
1966: One of the largest land-clearing machinery orders in history was placed.
March 1967: Earth-moving began, leading to the official groundbreaking in April.
Keowee Dam: Built with over 2 million cubic yards of earth, the dam stretches 3,500 feet and stands 20 feet taller than its sister dam on the Little River. It houses two hydroelectric units generating up to 40 megawatts of power.
Tunnel and Infrastructure: An 800-foot tunnel was created alongside the Oconee skimmer wall, shaping both the landscape and local ecosystem.

The Big Picture — Keowee, Jocassee, and Innovation

Lake Keowee wasn’t alone. At the same time, Lake Jocassee and the Jocassee Hydroelectric Station were also under development. With 75 miles of shoreline, Lake Jocassee became known as South Carolina’s cleanest and most pristine lake, reflecting the perfect balance between progress and preservation.

Why It Matters Today

Lake Keowee is more than just a pretty place. It’s a symbol of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. From powering homes through hydro and nuclear energy to providing a recreational paradise for locals and visitors, the legacy of Lake Keowee continues to thrive.

So the next time you're enjoying a day on the lake, remember the monumental work and vision it took to make it all happen.

Quick Recap: Lake Keowee Facts

Built by: Duke Energy
Project name: Keowee-Toxaway Project
Construction began: 1967
Lake filled: 1970
Hydro Station operational: 1971
Nuclear Station operational: 1973
Dam length: 3,500 feet
Power generated: 40 megawatts (hydroelectric)

Thinking of Moving to Lake Keowee?

As a trusted local expert in Lake Keowee real estate, I help clients every day discover not only the beauty of the area but the rich history that makes it so special. Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring your options—I'd love to be your guide.

👉 Contact Me Today: Eric Stegall - C: 864-903-5719