Travel Small Towns spotlights Oconee County, South Carolina, with Cricket Barnett, president and CEO of Visit Oconee. This episode covers why the county stands out as a mountain destination in a state most people associate with beaches, plus the festivals, outdoor adventures, and small towns that make it a strong year-round destination. Cricket shares what makes Oconee County unique, from 50-plus waterfalls to Lake Jocassee, the Chattooga River,and three distinct municipalities with different travel vibes.
If you’re planning a fall trip, love paddle sports, or want a small-town getaway with festivals and scenic beauty, this one’s packed with ideas. Plus, don’t miss fun facts about the iconic movie filmed here, with scenes you won’t forget!
In this episode, you will hear:
– What makes Oconee County unique
– 50-plus waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and small-town appeal
– Mountains, Blue Ridge views, and hiking in South Carolina
– How many waterfalls are marked and explored
– Appalachian geology and the county’s rock features
– National Geographic recognition and Lake Jocassee
– Camping, cabins, tours, kayaks, and paddleboards
– The county’s three main municipalities
– Jazz on the Alley in Seneca
– Christmas lights and holiday events downtown
– Fall festival season and heritage events
– Heritage fair, tractors, animals, and living history
– Walhalla Oktoberfest and German heritage
– South Carolina Apple Festival in Westminster
– Westminster’s Bigfoot Festival
– When the leaves change and why fall is the best season
– Chattooga River paddling and rafting levels
– The movie you’ve seen but may not have known it was filmed in Oconee County
– How the rafting industry started on the Chattooga
Like and follow Oconee County, SC
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisitOconeeSC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitoconeesc?igsh=MWI2eXZ1eTM3cmYxZw==
