Real Food for Real Hikers in Lake Hartwell Country

Ditch the granola bars and dig into Lake Hartwell Country’s hearty, local cooking. 

Out here in Lake Hartwell Country, we’re no strangers to nature. Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens counties are home to Upstate South Carolina’s three major lakes, the southern edge of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, and miles of wild and untamed forest. It just makes sense that we love to get out and explore our area’s natural treasures. But rugged landscapes demand rugged fuel. Leave the granola bars and trail mix behind and dig into our local grub: food crafted with care, perfect for putting some pep in your step before a day on the water or for refueling at the end of a trail. 

A Wild Slice of Life in Oconee County

Designated a National Wild and Scenic River in 1974, the Chattooga River traces the border between Lake Hartwell Country and our neighbors in Georgia. The free-flowing river intersperses sections of white-water rapids with calm pools, so you can enjoy its cool waters whether you’re craving exhilaration or relaxation. Head out to Long Creek, SC, for a day of adventure on the Chattooga: rent tubes, rafts, kayaks, and more from the Chattooga Whitewater Shop for a wild time on the river, then refuel at the shop’s delicious pizza joint, Humble Pie. They’re known for their locally sourced ingredients, house-secret dough recipe, and – of course – beautiful scenery to accompany your pizza. 

A Mountaintop Retreat in Pickens County 

The rural, mountainous north of Pickens County is home to countless miles of secluded trails, gushing waterfalls, and mountaintop views. The untamed beauty of its landscape means you’re a drive away from the nearest restaurant hubs, but this is no obstacle for those who are connoisseurs of both food and nature. Embark on a moderately difficult hike out to Beech Bottom Falls, just south of the state line, where a riverside path leads to an observation deck to view the cascade. Hardy (and hungry) hikers can then treat themselves to a scenic half-hour drive south to the town of Pickens, where they’ll find a vibrant main street full of local restaurants, from a caffeine jolt at Coyote Coffee to comforting meals at Farmhouse Deli. 

A Deep Dive in Anderson County 

Anderson County borders Lake Hartwell, one of the largest recreation lakes in the Southeast and our namesake. Covering nearly 56,000 acres and reaching 926 miles of shoreline, this massive lake is a one-stop destination for every outdoor activity you could want. More than 524 campsites dot the lake’s shores, interspersed between five marinas and even more public boat ramps. You may even experience a professional or collegiate angling tournament, as it’s known nationwide for its excellent bass fishing. After an exhausting day of playing on the lake, head up to The Galley in Portman Marina for a seafood dinner with a lakeside patio view. 

With so many mountains, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and hikes to explore in Lake Hartwell Country, there are just as many restaurants waiting to be discovered. Where will your trail take you next? 

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