Kings Creek Falls
South Carolina • 70 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Kings Creek Falls
Kings Creek Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Sumter National Forest in South Carolina. It features a cascading drop surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
The Setting
Kings Creek Falls sits at 2,175 feet within Sumter National Forest, fed by the Chattooga River, in the hills of South Carolina. The falls drop 70 feet.
Height: 70 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows King Creek Trail (#528), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
KING CREEK TRAIL #528
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.47 miTrail Description
The trail to Kings Creek Falls is a relatively short and easy hike through a forested area. It follows Kings Creek and features a well-maintained path with minimal elevation gain. The trail ends at a viewing area near the base of the waterfall.
What to Expect
The falls drop 70 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Kings Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Kings Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest after seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Sumter National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery after rain, so exercise caution. Stay on the designated trail to avoid damaging the environment or getting lost.
Current Water Conditions
60 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 16 years of record
0.89 ft
Water depth at gauge
66°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 66 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CHATTOOGA RIVER AT BURRELLS FORD, NR PINE MTN, GA (1 km away).
Today
Low
68 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
64 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
71 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
66 cfs
3/10Wed
Barely Flowing
57 cfs
5/10Thu
Low
72 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
66 cfs
3/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early January to early February, peaking in February.
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 Cashiers hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Kings Creek Falls is located near the town of Mountain Rest, South Carolina, within the Sumter National Forest. The trailhead can be accessed via Burrells Ford Road, which is a gravel road off Highway 107.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Burrells Ford Campground parking area, which is free of charge. The trailhead to Kings Creek Falls is a short walk from the parking lot.
Elevation
2,175 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.966200° N, -83.111262° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Spectacular Mountain Views With Your Own Private Hot Tub!
Foxhunt at Sapphire Valley
The Wells Cashiers
Red Top Tree House
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
West Fork Campground (Clayton, GA)
5.4 miles away · 5 sites
Overview All Campsites at West Fork Campground are reservation only, you must reserve through recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777Visitors to this 5-site campground marvel over the picturesque bird's eye view of the world renowned Chattooga Wild and Scenic River. Situated along the west fork of the river, this area offers isolation and adventure all in one. Visitors often comment they feel as though they've been swept back in time and are looking out onto the great frontier of the past when
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Burrells Ford Campground, Ellicott Rock Wilderness, and Spoonauger Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes during warmer months.
Cities near Kings Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Kings Creek Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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