Nestled on the banks of the Chauga River, our picturesque retreat welcomes up to 4 guests to a natural paradise. With 2 cozy bedrooms and 1.5 baths, and a full kitchen, it’s the ideal basecamp for your wilderness adventures.

Immerse yourself in 400 feet of riverfront, located at the upper end of the Chauga River’s 31-mile length. Whether you’re an angler in search of the perfect fishing spot or a nature lover seeking solace from the daily grind, our rental is your ticket to outdoor bliss. Step onto our covered porch, mere steps from the river’s edge, and let the soothing sounds of nature envelop you.

Outdoor Access

Fishing: Chattooga River
The Chattooga River, known for its powerful, fast-flowing waters with an average drop of 49 feet per mile, is a South Carolina gem and the state’s most famous trout stream. Immortalized in the film “Deliverance,” the Chattooga attracts canoeists, rafters, and trout enthusiasts. Designated as a National Wild and Scenic River in 1974, it ranks among the Southeast’s longest and largest free-flowing rivers.

Originating near Whitesides Mountain’s eastern flank, the Chattooga River embarks on a journey spanning 10 miles in North Carolina before serving as the boundary between Georgia and South Carolina for 40 miles. Trout Unlimited members even ranked it among the top 100 trout streams in the U.S.

Accessible via major road crossings, primary access points include Burrells Ford Road north of Walhalla, SC; GA-SC Route 28; Earls Ford Road near Clayton, GA; and U.S Route 76.

The Chattooga River offers diverse angling opportunities. Upstream from the NC-SC state line to the vicinity of Big Bend Falls, it sustains a thriving population of wild brown trout. Much of this pristine trout habitat is nestled within the Ellicott Rock Wilderness Area, accessible via hiking trails from both Walhalla State Fish Hatchery and Burrells Ford Bridge Road, off SC 107. Additionally, the area surrounding Burrells Ford Bridge and Campground receives regular stocking of catchable trout from March through November.

Further downstream, from Burrells Ford to the Reed Creek confluence in Georgia, the river is annually stocked with sub-adult brown and rainbow trout via helicopter. This portion provides exceptional backcountry trout fishing opportunities for both wild and stocked trout and can be accessed on foot from parking areas at the SC 28 Bridge, Thrift Lake Access/Nicholson Ford, and Big Bend Road Access.

Continuing downstream, the segment from Reed Creek to SC 28 operates under a “Delayed Harvest” program. The stretch from SC 28 to Long Bottom Ford Camp Access is stocked with catchable brown, brook, and rainbow trout. This section is easily accessible via SC 28 and Long Bottom Ford Road, with boating permitted downstream of SC 28.

The Chattooga River segment from SC 28 to Earls Ford Road Access area provides excellent float fishing opportunities for stocked trout, particularly from fall through mid-summer. Adventurous anglers can also expect to catch redeye bass and redbreast sunfish in this area.

Fishing: Chauga River
The Chauga River in Oconee County offers a picturesque setting, originating near SC 28 and flowing to Lake Hartwell. It’s primarily a hatchery-supported trout stream with some wild trout. Catchable trout are stocked during the season, and various access points exist via county and USFS roads. Hike-in options are also available for a more secluded experience. Some tributaries, like Stakey Creek and Cedar Creek, provide public access for brown trout fishing on USFS property and are stocked with fingerling brown trout. Double Branch offers small-stream rainbow trout fishing.

Fishing: Whitewater River
The Whitewater River is renowned for being the source of Upper and Lower Whitewater Falls, each dropping a staggering 400 feet, making them two of the Southeast’s most captivating waterfalls. This dynamic water system fosters numerous fast-flowing riffles, providing an ideal habitat for wild rainbow and brown trout.

The section of the river above Lower Whitewater Falls is exceptional for wild trout fishing. The entire span of the Whitewater River in South Carolina is safeguarded within the Jocassee Gorges project and is open to the public. Access is available via SC 130 to the Bad Creek Hydroelectric Facility, with the gate permitting entrance during daylight hours and exit at any time. After entering the gate, follow signs to the Whitewater River access parking area, with a half-mile hike leading to the stream. The Foothills Trail runs parallel to the river’s east side, while the Coon Branch Trail follows the west side. Parking alongside the river on Musterground Road is not permitted.

Hiking
Explore a captivating array of hiking experiences in and around Mountain Rest, South Carolina. Begin with the 1.6-mile round trip to Lee Falls in Tamassee, then venture to Walhalla for the 1.5-mile Issaqueena Falls and Stumphouse Tunnel trail, featuring a 250-foot elevation gain. For a longer journey, explore the 6.5-mile round trip to Big Bend Falls in Mountain Rest. Don’t miss the picturesque King Creek Falls and Spoonauger Falls along the Chattooga River, offering 0.5 and 1-mile round trips respectively. Lastly, cross over to Clayton, Georgia, for the short but scenic 0.6-mile round trip to Martin Creek Falls. These hikes offer a diverse range of natural beauty, from serene river views to cascading waterfalls. Access these trails through the Warwoman Wildlife Management Area, easily reached by following Finney Creek Road from Clayton, GA.

Mountain Biking
Mountain biking enthusiasts can savor thrilling trails near Mountain Rest:

Issaqueena Lake Trail: Located near Walhalla, SC, this 7-mile trail encircles Issaqueena Lake, offering a moderate-level biking experience with beautiful lake views.

Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park: Situated in Walhalla, SC, this park boasts diverse trail options catering to different skill levels, from beginner-friendly routes to more challenging terrain.

Chattooga Belle Farm Trails: Found in Long Creek, SC, these trails wind through picturesque landscapes, offering a mix of terrain and breathtaking views.

Warwoman Dell Recreation Area: Located near Clayton, GA, this area provides hiking and mountain biking trails, set amidst a lush forest backdrop and alongside picturesque streams.

Oconee Connector Trail: Situated in Walhalla, SC, this approximately 2-mile trail offers an enjoyable biking experience and links up with the Oconee Trail for longer rides.