The Upstate of South Carolina isn’t a brand or a slogan—it’s a topographical fact. A region where the Blue Ridge begins to crumble into hills, where old mill towns fade into hardwood forests, and where seclusion isn’t a luxury but a matter of distance, topography, and a certain hard-won quiet. You’ll find it outside places like Sunset and Tamassee, where the highway veers and cell service dies. Not for everyone, but for some, exactly the point.
These are neighborhoods without master plans or coffee franchises. Cleveland offers trails more famous than its post office. Rocky Bottom is less a town than a pause in the wilderness. Even Pumpkintown—with its annual fall festival and tongue-in-cheek name—has more cows than streetlights.
Upstate’s name fits. It climbs. It keeps its distance. It doesn’t flatter easily. That’s the draw. Behind the ridges, down dirt roads, past the last gas station—there’s a kind of hush that doesn’t need marketing. Here are 10 places where that hush holds.
10. Sassafras Mountain Area – Highest Point of Tranquility
Nestled at the pinnacle of South Carolina, the Sassafras Mountain Area offers a serene escape where the sky meets the land. This secluded region is home to a handful of residents who cherish the tranquility that comes with living near the state’s highest point.
Surrounded by unspoiled wilderness, the area boasts breathtaking panoramic views, especially from the recently constructed observation tower atop Sassafras Mountain. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore miles of hiking trails, including portions of the famed Foothills Trail, winding through lush forests and cascading waterfalls.
With an approximate population of just a few dozen, the community here enjoys a peaceful lifestyle immersed in nature. The lack of commercial development ensures that the whispers of the wind and the songs of birds are the soundtrack to daily life.
Where is Sassafras Mountain?
Located on the border of South Carolina and North Carolina, Sassafras Mountain sits in northern Pickens County within the Blue Ridge Mountains. The mountain’s elevation of 3,553 feet offers unparalleled views of both states, making it a unique geographical landmark.
To reach this secluded area, visitors can take Highway 178 north from Pickens and then follow the winding roads of F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway to the summit. The journey itself is a scenic drive through dense forests and rolling hills, enhancing the sense of seclusion and natural beauty that defines the region.
9. Rocky Bottom – Peaceful Mountain Living
Rocky Bottom is a hidden gem tucked away in the mountains of northern Pickens County, offering a tranquil haven for those seeking solitude amidst nature. This small community, with a population of around 40 residents, is surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
The area is a gateway to the Foothills Trail and numerous other hiking paths that meander through verdant forests and alongside pristine streams. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy the serene environment, where the rustling of leaves and the gentle flow of water provide a calming backdrop.
Rocky Bottom’s sparse development means that homes are scattered, ensuring privacy and an intimate connection with the natural surroundings. The community is also home to the Rocky Bottom Retreat and Conference Center of the Blind, highlighting its commitment to inclusivity and appreciation of nature’s gifts.
Where is Rocky Bottom?
Situated near the North Carolina border, Rocky Bottom lies along U.S. Highway 178 between the towns of Pickens and Rosman. Nestled at an elevation of approximately 1,750 feet, the community is enveloped by the lush greenery of the Jocassee Gorges.
This remote location contributes to its peaceful ambiance, far removed from the hustle of urban centers. To reach Rocky Bottom, travelers can follow Highway 178 north from Pickens, enjoying a scenic drive through mountainous terrain, with glimpses of wildlife and breathtaking vistas along the way.
8. Table Rock Area – Seclusion Under the Shadow of the Mountain
Under the imposing presence of Table Rock Mountain, the surrounding area offers a secluded retreat for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. The community here is sparse, with residents living on expansive, forested properties that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape.
With an approximate population of a few hundred, neighbors are few and far between, providing ample privacy. The region is a haven for outdoor activities, with Table Rock State Park offering hiking trails, fishing spots, and breathtaking overlooks.
The iconic mountain itself is a backdrop to daily life, inspiring a sense of wonder and connection to the land. Hidden waterfalls and lesser-known trails invite exploration beyond the park’s popular attractions.
Where is Table Rock?
Located in Pickens County, the Table Rock area is accessible via South Carolina Highway 11, also known as the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway. This picturesque route winds through the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, leading visitors to the base of Table Rock Mountain.
The area’s secluded setting is enhanced by its distance from major cities, yet it’s conveniently situated about 30 miles northwest of Greenville. The journey to this tranquil locale is marked by rolling hills, dense forests, and glimpses of the mountains that define the region’s character.
7. Jocassee Ridge – Mountain Views and Secluded Living
Jocassee Ridge is a gated community nestled in the small town of Salem, offering residents expansive lots and sweeping views of Lake Jocassee and the Blue Ridge Mountains. This secluded neighborhood is designed for those who cherish privacy, with minimal development and homes set amidst vast green spaces.
With around 100 residents, the community maintains a close-knit feel while providing ample room for solitude. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy nearby Lake Jocassee, known for its crystal-clear waters, and explore the surrounding wilderness, rich with waterfalls and hiking trails.
The area’s elevation affords not only stunning vistas but also a sense of peace that comes from being above the bustle of everyday life. Hidden coves and lesser-known fishing spots make it a paradise for those in the know.
Where is Jocassee Ridge?
Situated in Oconee County, Jocassee Ridge is located just off Highway 11 in Salem, South Carolina. The community is perched on rolling hills that overlook Lake Jocassee to the north and Lake Keowee to the south.
To reach this secluded enclave, visitors can take Highway 11, turn onto Jocassee Lake Road, and then follow the signs to the gated entrance. The area’s remoteness is balanced by its proximity to amenities in nearby Seneca and Walhalla, ensuring residents have access to necessities while enjoying their mountain retreat.
6. Pumpkintown – Rustic Charm in Pickens County
Pumpkintown exudes rustic charm and a sense of stepping back in time with its historic roots and minimal modern development. This unincorporated community has a population of around 60 people, spread out over rolling farmland and dense woodlands.
Large, tree-filled properties create natural buffers between homes, enhancing the seclusion and tranquility of the area. Locals and visitors enjoy the annual Pumpkin Festival, a celebration that brings this quiet community to life with music, crafts, and local fare.
The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and simply savoring the peaceful rural landscape. With its quaint atmosphere, Pumpkintown invites you to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of country living.
Where is Pumpkintown?
Located in northeastern Pickens County, Pumpkintown sits at the crossroads of South Carolina Highways 8 and 288. The community is nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing a scenic backdrop to the rural setting. To get there, travelers from Greenville can take Highway 276 northwest, connecting to Highway 8.
The area’s seclusion is enhanced by its distance from major highways and urban centers, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking a quiet spot off the beaten path.
5. Long Creek – A Riverside Haven on the Chattooga
Long Creek is a secluded community renowned for its proximity to the wild and scenic Chattooga River, attracting outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate its unspoiled wilderness. Home to approximately 200 residents, the area is characterized by large lots, dense forests, and a lack of urban noise.
The Chattooga River offers some of the best whitewater rafting and kayaking experiences in the Southeast, while nearby trails lead to hidden waterfalls and panoramic overlooks. The community’s agricultural roots are evident in local orchards and farms, providing fresh produce and a taste of rural life.
For those seeking solitude amid nature, Long Creek offers a harmonious blend of adventure and tranquility.
Where is Long Creek?
Situated in Oconee County’s westernmost corner, Long Creek is accessible via U.S. Highway 76 near the Georgia state line. The community lies within the Sumter National Forest, enhancing its secluded atmosphere.
To reach Long Creek, travelers can take Highway 76 west from Westminster, enjoying a scenic drive through rolling hills and dense woodlands. The area’s remoteness is a key part of its charm, providing an escape from the bustle of city life while still within reach of nearby towns for essential services.
4. Tamassee – Tranquil Living by the Cherokee Foothills
Tamassee is a serene community nestled near the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway in Oconee County, offering residents a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by nature. With a population of around 50 people, the area is characterized by spacious properties, minimal traffic, and undisturbed natural surroundings.
The community is committed to preserving its rural character, evident in the absence of commercial development and the emphasis on maintaining the natural landscape. Residents enjoy access to pristine lakes, hiking trails, and the nearby Tamassee Knob, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Being tucked away in the mountains, Tamassee offers a sense of peace that is hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Tamassee?
Located in northwestern Oconee County, Tamassee can be reached via South Carolina Highway 11, the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway. The community lies near the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing a backdrop of rolling hills and dense forests.
To get there, travelers can take Highway 11 north from Walhalla, turning onto Tamassee Knob Road to enter the heart of the community. The area’s secluded setting is enhanced by its proximity to national forests and state parks, making it an ideal location for those seeking a tranquil mountain retreat.
3. Cleveland – Nature’s Escape in Northern Greenville County
Cleveland is a small community offering an escape into nature, located near Caesars Head and Jones Gap State Parks. With an approximate population of 300 residents, the area is known for its rugged terrain, low housing density, and scenic beauty.
The mountainous landscape and dense forests contribute to its seclusion, providing residents with privacy and direct access to numerous outdoor activities. Hiking trails abound, including paths leading to waterfalls and stunning overlooks.
The community maintains a quiet atmosphere, with local businesses catering to outdoor enthusiasts and those appreciating the slower pace of mountain living. Hidden swimming holes and lesser-known trails make Cleveland a favorite among locals in the know.
Where is Cleveland?
Located in northern Greenville County, Cleveland sits along U.S. Highway 276 near the North Carolina border. The community is nestled within the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, encompassing over 13,000 acres of protected land.
To reach Cleveland, travelers can follow Highway 276 north of Greenville, enjoying a scenic ascent into the Blue Ridge Mountains. The area’s remoteness is accentuated by the winding mountain roads and the dense forests that envelop the route, leading to a destination that feels worlds away from the city.
2. Mountain Rest – Seclusion Amid Sumter National Forest
Mountain Rest is a remote haven located within Oconee County, surrounded by the vast Sumter National Forest. This community of approximately 1,000 residents enjoys large land parcels, an abundance of waterfalls, and extensive hiking trails that weave through untouched wilderness.
Its distance from major towns creates a peaceful environment where the rhythms of nature prevail. Limited commercial development ensures that the night skies remain clear for stargazing and the sounds of civilization are replaced by the rustling of leaves and flowing streams.
Outdoor recreation is a way of life here, with opportunities for fishing, camping, and exploring the rich biodiversity of the forest. Mountain Rest embodies the essence of secluded mountain living.
Where is Mountain Rest?
Situated in northwestern Oconee County, Mountain Rest is accessible via South Carolina Highway 28, near the Georgia and North Carolina state lines. The community is enveloped by the Sumter National Forest, contributing to its remote and tranquil setting.
Travelers can reach Mountain Rest by taking Highway 28 northwest from Walhalla, passing through landscapes of rolling hills and dense woodlands. The drive itself is a journey into the heart of the Appalachian foothills, with the destination offering a true retreat from the bustle of modern life.
1. Sunset – Hidden Retreat in the Blue Ridge Foothills
Sunset is a secluded community nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Pickens County, offering a hidden retreat for those seeking tranquility. With an approximate population of 150 residents, Sunset is characterized by expansive acre-plus properties and dense forests that provide natural privacy.
The area is in close proximity to natural attractions like Lake Keowee and the Jocassee Gorges, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents enjoy a rural charm with low population density, where the surrounding landscape offers a peaceful escape from urban life.
Hidden trails and lesser-known fishing spots are treasures for locals, fostering a deep connection with nature.
Where is Sunset?
Located in northern Pickens County, Sunset can be accessed via South Carolina Highway 11, then turning onto Cleo Chapman Highway. The community lies at the edge of the Jocassee Gorges and is surrounded by state parks and natural reserves.
To reach this hidden retreat, travelers can drive north from Pickens or west from Greenville, enjoying scenic views of the Blue Ridge foothills along the way. Sunset’s geography, nestled among mountains and forests, makes it a secluded gem that embodies the serenity of Upstate South Carolina.
