LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Clearwater Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Clearwater Falls
Clearwater Falls is a serene waterfall in South Carolina, prized for its photogenic cascade and quiet forest setting. Tucked into Keowee-Toxaway State Park, the falls offer a peaceful short-hike destination where dappled light, mossy rock outcrops, and the sound of falling water create a classic Southern Appalachian streamside scene. The site is popular with hikers and photographers seeking a manageable outing with rewarding views. The falls lie within Keowee-Toxaway State Park (designation: SP) and are managed by SPR, so visitors should follow park rules and seasonal access guidance. The nearest established campground is Burrells Ford, about 22.3 km away, so plan overnight stays accordingly or contact SPR for the latest visitor information and parking details.
The Setting
Clearwater Falls sits at 899 feet within Keowee-Toxaway State Park, in the foothills of South Carolina.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Whitewater Falls, the tallest waterfall in North Carolina at 411 feet, lies 11.1 miles to the northwest. Also nearby: Reedy Cove Falls (75 ft, 7.3 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This length and gain make it a pleasantly achievable hike for most fit day-hikers looking for a short excursion to a scenic waterfall. Surface, grade, and official trail class were not documented in the provided park data; hikers should expect variable trail conditions and check with SPR or Keowee-Toxaway State Park before heading out. Wear sturdy footwear, bring water, and plan extra time for photography or creekside stops.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with the soothing sound of cascading water. The area may feature lush vegetation and opportunities for photography.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not documented. The site may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Clearwater Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Clearwater Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit, as the weather is mild and the surrounding foliage enhances the scenery.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential wildlife encounters. Always stay on marked trails and avoid venturing too close to the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Eastatoee Crk On Cleo Chapman Hwy, 6 miles away, not on Clearwater Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
26 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 6 years of record
1.96 ft
Water depth at gauge
53°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 53 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge EASTATOEE CRK ON CLEO CHAPMAN HWY NEAR SUNSET, SC (10 km away).
Today
Low
27 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
41 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
40 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
33 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
30 cfs
6/10Sun
Low
37 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
34 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early January to mid January, peaking in January.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Salem hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Clearwater Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Clearwater Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 70°F to 44°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 27 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The bare-earth surface loses about 110 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 898 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 116 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 69 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 898 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 110 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Clearwater Falls is located in South Carolina, but specific directions to the site are not well-documented. Visitors are encouraged to consult local maps or guides for precise navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors should expect to park in nearby designated areas or along the road if no official lot is available.
Elevation
899 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.920381° N, -82.880976° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring water, as trail conditions and amenities are not well-documented. Check local weather and trail reports before visiting.
Where to Stay
Tru By Hilton Seneca Clemson Sc
Resort-Style Condo w/ Balcony on Lake Keowee
Comfort Inn & Suites Clemson - University Area
Salem Vacation Rental w/ Lake Keowee Access!
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Burrells Ford
13.8 miles away · 0 sites
Burrells Ford campground is open year round with no charge. A pit toilet and picnic tables are available. Walk .25 miles to camp on the Chattooga River.
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other natural landmarks, hiking trails, or local parks in South Carolina.
Wildlife
The area may feature common wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and other small animals. Visitors should be cautious of potential encounters with snakes or insects.
Cities near Clearwater Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Clearwater Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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