Discover a private retreat on the peaceful shores of the Chauga River. Our 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home welcomes up to 8 guests, offering a stocked kitchen and coffee bar for easy meals and a charcoal grill for riverside cookouts. Enjoy trout fishing just steps from the back door, and relax on the covered porch or by the fire pit. Nearby, explore hiking trails, Chattooga River fishing, the Stumphouse Tunnel, and activities like mountain biking, kayaking, and rafting. Only 15 minutes from Walhalla and 40 minutes from Clemson, our riverside getaway is perfect for family and friends seeking an adventurous escape.

Outdoor Access

Fishing: Chauga River

The Chauga River in Oconee County is a picturesque stream with deep pools, originating near SC 28 and flowing to Lake Hartwell. Public access is available from Land Bridge Road to Riley Moore Shoals. 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: Chattooga River

The Chattooga River, characterized by its powerful, fast-flowing waters with an average drop of 49 feet per mile, stands as South Carolina’s most renowned trout stream. Famously featured in the film “Deliverance,” the Chattooga is a bustling hub for canoeists, rafters, and trout enthusiasts alike. Notably, it received National Wild and Scenic River designation in 1974, solidifying its status as one of the Southeast’s longest and largest free-flowing rivers.

Originating near Whitesides Mountain’s eastern flank, the Chattooga River embarks on a journey that spans 10 miles in North Carolina and continues for 40 miles, serving as the boundary between Georgia and South Carolina. In a national survey conducted among Trout Unlimited members, the Chattooga was honored as one of the top 100 trout streams in the United States.

Accessible via major road crossings, there are four primary access points: 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.

Finally, 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: 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:

Discover an array of captivating hiking experiences in and around Mountain Rest, South Carolina. Start 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 this waterfall through a trail in the Warwoman Wildlife Management Area. Drive east on Warwoman Road from Clayton, GA, and follow Finney Creek Road to discover this natural wonder. Whether you’re in search of waterfalls, scenic vistas, or tranquil woodland strolls, these hiking spots in and around Mountain Rest offer a diverse range of outdoor adventures suitable for nature enthusiasts of all experience levels.

Mountain Biking:

Issaqueena Lake Trail: Located near Walhalla, SC, just a short distance from Mountain Rest, this 7-mile trail offers a moderate-level biking experience. It encircles Issaqueena Lake, featuring a blend of singletrack and doubletrack sections. Riders can relish the beautiful lake views, and the trail accommodates cyclists of varying skill levels.

Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park: Situated in Walhalla, SC, Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park is renowned for its diverse trail options catering to different skill levels. From beginner-friendly routes to more technically challenging terrain, the park is well-maintained and has gained popularity among local mountain biking enthusiasts.

Chattooga Belle Farm Trails: Found in Long Creek, SC, in proximity to Mountain Rest, Chattooga Belle Farm offers a range of mountain biking trails with varying lengths. These trails wind through the farm’s picturesque landscape, presenting riders with a mix of terrain that includes climbs and descents, all while providing breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Warwoman Dell Recreation Area: Located near Clayton, GA, not far from Mountain Rest, the Warwoman Dell Recreation Area offers a selection of hiking and mountain biking trails. While some trails are primarily designed for hiking, the area boasts biking-friendly options, set amidst a lush forest backdrop and alongside picturesque streams.

Oconee Connector Trail: Situated in Walhalla, SC, this trail spans approximately 2 miles one way. While relatively short, it provides an enjoyable biking experience. The Oconee Connector Trail links up with the Oconee Trail, offering access to longer rides in the vicinity, making it a convenient choice for a quick mountain biking outing.

Fork Mountain Trail: Near Clayton, GA, not too far from Mountain Rest, the Fork Mountain Trail stretches approximately 8 miles one way and offers a moderate to difficult biking experience. This challenging, backcountry-style trail is suite.

Warwoman Wildlife Management Area:

Within the Chattahoochee National Forest, the Warwoman Dell Wildlife Management Area encompasses a sprawling 15,800 acres of pristine wilderness. While it’s primarily known as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, it’s important to note that the area is also open for managed hunting, providing opportunities for deer, hog, and bear hunting during designated seasons. Additionally, hunters can pursue turkey, small game, and furbearers, adding to the diverse wildlife experiences available.

Beyond hunting, Warwoman Dell offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to relish. The landscape is a picturesque backdrop for picnicking, allowing families and friends to gather amidst the natural beauty of the forest. Hikers can explore the extensive trail network, discovering scenic vistas and tranquil spots along the way. Camping facilities provide an opportunity to immerse oneself in the wilderness, making it an ideal location for an overnight escape.

For those with a passion for angling, the area boasts excellent trout fishing opportunities at Hood Creek, Walnut Fork Creek, Sarah’s Creek, and their tributaries. Anglers can cast their lines in these serene waters, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest. Bird-watchers will find plenty to captivate their interest as well, with the chance to spot various avian species in their natural habitat.

Moreover, Warwoman Dell welcomes horseback riders to explore its extensive trails, offering an equestrian-friendly environment for riders of all levels. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the hunt, the tranquility of a picnic, or the adventure of hiking, camping, or fishing, Warwoman Dell Wildlife Management Area beckons with its diverse recreational opportunities and its embrace of the natural wonders within the Chattahoochee National Forest.

Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking:

The Chattooga River’s allure extends to paddlers of all skill levels, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from across the nation. This river holds the distinction of being the only Wild & Scenic River in the Southeast, a testament to its ecological importance and beauty. To partake in the rafting adventures of the Chattooga, you have the option of joining a commercial outfitter or planning a private rafting trip. Commercial outfitters, including Nantahala Outdoor Center, Southeastern Expeditions, and Wildwater Ltd, offer guided experiences with seasoned professionals who possess an intimate knowledge of the river’s intricacies. These certified guides are well-versed in “reading” the water and are equipped to handle varying water levels. Additionally, they undergo extensive training and are certified in first aid, ensuring safety during the excursion. Commercial rafting trips include all necessary gear, such as rafts, paddles, personal flotation devices, helmets, and appropriate attire. A delicious riverside lunch and convenient shuttle services to and from the river complete the package. The Chattooga River stands as a testament to the untamed splendor of nature, offering a range of unforgettable experiences for those who venture to explore its waters.