WELCOME TO UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA
Lifestyle
Welcome to the varied and unique communities that form Upstate South Carolina. This growing region has been called one of the finest locations in America for business and industry, for start-ups, for job growth, for working mothers, for singles, for young professionals, and for families. At the same time, the climate is mild and encourages four-season outdoor enjoyment in local, regional, and state parks. Lush hiking trails, miles of biking paths, first-rate golf courses, tennis and other racquet courts, equestrian attractions, secluded campsites, and sports clubs or country clubs are all available to those who enjoy an active lifestyle. Those who appreciate the arts will find a culturally rich region with elegant venues, wonderful outdoor pavilions, and famous performance groups. From the “big city” to the region’s smaller towns, the arts are well supported and celebrated in style. Whether your passion is culture and the arts, outdoor adventure, or attractions designed for family enjoyment, the region offers a four-season cornucopia of delights. This panoramic area offers some of the nation’s finest recreation.
Outdoor recreation is a key part of this area and there are miles and miles of hiking and bike trails in the area, most leading to, around or near pristine forests, rivers, mountain streams, lakes and waterfalls. The beautiful Sumter National Forest in Oconee County and the region is dotted with state and national lands all awaiting the avid hunter or outdoorsmen. Water and water sports make up a significant portion of life in this part of the state, and residents wouldn’t have it any other way. Lake Hartwell is one of the Southeast’s largest and most popular public recreation sites. It has 56,000 acres of water and many recreation opportunities. There are numerous natural sand beaches along the 962-mile shoreline in addition to campgrounds, recreation areas and boat access ramps. Lake Keowee covers more than 18,500 acres of water and has a 300-mile shoreline, the Lake Keowee area is a popular place for fishing, waterskiing, swimming, camping and picnicking. Lake Jocassee has 7,500 acres of deep water and 75 miles of shoreline. The popular recreation area is surrounded by mountains and waterfalls. Flowing freely through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains is the Chattooga River. Upstate South Carolina is the premier whitewater destination in the southeast. On the Chauga River, spectacular scenery and class IV rapids provide the ultimate rush for anyone daring enough to paddle this river.
Newcomers can choose from bustling urban centers like Greensville and Spartanburg or they settle into an upscale enclave with world-class recreational amenities. They will also discover charming country towns or picturesque townships dotted with contemporary developments. Many of the counties that surround this area blend country pleasures and a rural lifestyle with progressive hometowns that excel in quality of life. Diverse communities offer a kaleidoscope of environments and settings, from loft living in a restored brick warehouse to the pristine appeal of the suburbs or rambling country farmhouses. Little wonder that the region has become such a popular and growing area, drawing newcomers to an unparalleled quality of life that comes at a remarkably affordable price. The reasonable cost of living is part of the appeal of this region where a cosmopolitan atmosphere and urban sophistication blend with old-fashioned family values and Southern hospitality. Take your time exploring the many facets of this region. You are sure to discover why long-time residents and thousands of relocating professionals and families would never consider living anywhere else.
