There’s a corner of South Carolina where the mountains begin to rise, the rivers bend toward Georgia, and the pace slows in a way city life rarely allows. Western South Carolina is stitched together with small towns that sit close to forests, lakes, and winding backroads, each one shaped as much by its natural setting as by the people who’ve called it home for generations.
Some of these places began as mill towns, their economies once tied to textile looms or railroad depots, and now they live on in historic brick storefronts and quiet streets. Others grew from farming crossroads or riverside landings, where the land still dictates the rhythm of daily life. What they share is a sense of space and stillness—an unhurried quality that feels increasingly rare.
For visitors, these towns offer more than scenery. They open doors to state parks, hidden waterfalls, and long stretches of lake shoreline, while also holding onto local festivals, church suppers, and family-run diners that keep community at the center. The quiet here isn’t emptiness; it’s the presence of things that endure.
This list gathers together 25 of the most secluded towns in Western South Carolina, each one a retreat in its own way. Some feel tucked into mountain folds, others spread along riverbanks, and a few cluster beside wide lakes where the water sets the tempo. All invite you to step off the main highway and rediscover what it feels like to move at the speed of the land.
25. Waterloo
Waterloo is a quiet lakeside town where life drifts as slowly as the waters of Lake Greenwood that lap against its shores. With only a few hundred residents, it feels tucked away from the rush of modern life, surrounded by pine forests and farmland.
Old churches and family-run diners give the town its heartbeat, while fishermen cast lines into the glassy lake at dawn. Summers bring the Lake Greenwood Catfish Festival, a small but lively celebration that gathers neighbors beneath shade trees.
Farming and recreation form the backbone of life here, with fields and fishing boats equally important to the town’s rhythm. Nights are calm, filled with crickets and the distant splash of fish.
Where is Waterloo?
Waterloo is located in Laurens County in Western South Carolina, about 15 miles west of the city of Laurens. It hugs the shoreline of Lake Greenwood, accessible by SC-72 and then smaller county roads.
The approach takes you through farmland and forest before the lake comes into view. It’s close enough for a day trip, but distant enough to feel like a retreat.
24. Lowndesville
Lowndesville rests like a forgotten jewel along the banks of Lake Russell, a town where fewer than 200 residents call home. Once a thriving cotton hub, its pace slowed long ago, leaving behind wide porches, quiet streets, and a sense of history you can almost hear in the cicadas.
The water is the main draw here—fishing, boating, and lazy afternoons spent watching the ripples stretch toward Georgia. With no rush of development, it feels as though the town has been gently preserved. Locals gather at the old general store or at church suppers, where stories of the past are kept alive.
Where is Lowndesville?
Lowndesville sits in Abbeville County, about 15 miles southwest of Abbeville city and just east of the Savannah River. You reach it by way of SC-81, a road that winds past pastures and pines.
The drive ends at the edge of Lake Russell, where the town meets the water. It feels worlds away from the bustle, even though it’s never too far from a highway.
23. Troy
Troy is a tiny dot on the map, with just over 90 people living within its limits, but it carries an old-world charm that makes it unforgettable. Nestled in the heart of Sumter National Forest, it feels embraced by nature on all sides.
The streets are quiet, lined with modest homes and shaded by oaks, while the Troy Museum offers glimpses into its long history. Outdoor lovers use the town as a gateway to forest trails, fishing holes, and hunting grounds.
The economy is rooted in farming and forestry, connecting locals deeply to the land. Life here feels simple and steadfast, like an old story you never tire of retelling.
Where is Troy?
Troy lies in Greenwood County, about 20 miles southwest of the city of Greenwood. It’s accessed via SC-10, a two-lane road that threads through farmland and tall pines.
The surrounding Sumter National Forest gives it a cocoon of seclusion. The trip feels like a gentle slipping away from modern noise.
22. Calhoun Falls
Calhoun Falls is where water and wilderness meet, a town that whispers of old mills and riverboats. Set beside Lake Russell and the Savannah River, its scenery is stunning, yet its population is only about 2,000.
Days here are slow, with fishing boats drifting across the water and kids riding bikes down quiet streets. Calhoun Falls State Park draws campers and hikers, offering trails that wind through hardwood forest and lead to the lake’s sandy edges.
The town’s economy revolves around outdoor recreation and the steady rhythm of small businesses. History lingers in the town square and in stories passed around kitchen tables.
Where is Calhoun Falls?
Calhoun Falls lies in Abbeville County, on the western edge of South Carolina along the Savannah River. It is about 25 miles southwest of Abbeville city, reached by SC-72.
The drive curves through farmland and forest before arriving at the lakeshore. Once there, the water and woods make the outside world feel distant.
21. Ware Shoals
Ware Shoals is a small mill town with a big heart, its identity forever tied to the Saluda River that flows past its edge. Once bustling with textile mills, the town has slowed, leaving behind historic brick buildings and a quiet pace of life.
Locals gather at the Ware Shoals Amphitheater, especially when spring festivals bring music to the riverside. The Saluda itself is the star, offering fishing, paddling, and the beauty of tumbling shoals that inspired the town’s name.
The economy today rests on small businesses, agriculture, and the occasional visitor drawn by its charm. Ware Shoals is at once weathered and welcoming, holding the soul of the past in its hands.
Where is Ware Shoals?
Ware Shoals is located primarily in Greenwood County, with a small section extending into Laurens County. Despite often being associated with three counties, the incorporated town does not cross into Abbeville County. It sits about 25 miles north of Greenwood and 20 miles south of Greenville, making it a midpoint between larger Upstate cities.
The town rests along the Saluda River, where the shoals give it both its name and its character. Approaching Ware Shoals on US-25 or SC-252, you pass through rolling farmland before the river and the historic mill town come into view, offering a setting that feels quietly apart from the main flow of modern development.
20. Hodges
Hodges is a modest community where pine woods press close and quiet roads stretch on like ribbons. With just a few hundred residents, it feels removed from the modern rush, even though trains once ran steadily through town.
Old depots and weathered buildings remind you of its railroad past, while today life is centered on family farms and local businesses. Fishing and hunting are weekend pastimes, as are simple gatherings at churches and school fields.
The town has no hurry, no heavy traffic, only the steady rhythm of rural life. Every breeze feels like it carries a piece of memory.
Where is Hodges?
Hodges lies in Greenwood County, about 8 miles north of Greenwood city along US-25. The town is small, with most roads leading into the forest or farmland.
It feels tucked away despite its proximity to a major route. Once you leave the highway, the stillness takes over.
19. Starr
Starr is a crossroads town that seems to breathe slower than the rest of the world, a place of wide porches, rocking chairs, and golden fields. With just over 150 residents, it’s truly a dot on the map, yet rich in community spirit.
Agriculture anchors the local economy, and cattle graze peacefully across rolling hills. Life here revolves around church socials, farm markets, and the hush of evenings filled with cricket song.
Outdoor lovers enjoy nearby Lake Hartwell, a haven for fishing and boating just a short drive away. Though small, Starr feels full in heart and history.
Where is Starr?
Starr is in Anderson County, about 10 miles southwest of the city of Anderson. It sits along SC-81, surrounded by farmland and open skies.
The road to Starr winds past barns and meadows, with little to distract from the quiet. Arriving feels like stepping into another rhythm of life.
18. Iva
Iva is a humble farming town, its streets lined with old storefronts and shaded by oak trees that seem older than memory. With about 1,000 residents, it feels close-knit and unhurried, where neighbors know one another by name.
The town holds annual festivals that fill the air with barbecue smoke and music, while the rest of the year is lived in steady calm. Agriculture remains the backbone, with fields and cattle pastures rolling out in every direction.
The pace is so gentle it almost lulls you into forgetting the outside world. Every corner feels like a postcard from a simpler time.
Where is Iva?
Iva lies in Anderson County, about 20 miles south of the city of Anderson. It’s reached via SC-81 or SC-184, both winding through farmland and pastures.
The drive itself feels like a gentle slide into small-town life. Once there, the sense of seclusion settles in quickly.
17. Antreville
Antreville is as small as they come, with fewer than 150 residents, but it holds a timeless Southern charm. It’s more crossroads than town—marked by a post office, a church, and fields that stretch endlessly around it.
Farming is the way of life here, and tractors are as common on the roads as cars. Locals treasure the hush that surrounds their days, broken only by the wind moving through crops or the call of distant cattle.
Visitors may stop briefly, but those who linger will find quiet creeks and open skies worth savoring. The simplicity is the attraction.
Where is Antreville?
Antreville is in Abbeville County, about 10 miles southeast of Abbeville city. You reach it by following SC-28 or SC-184 through wide farmland.
The road narrows as you near the community, and the pace of life slows to match. It feels hidden in plain sight, wrapped in fields and silence.
16. Donalds
Donalds is a small town where the train tracks hum quietly through, echoing its past as a busy railway stop. With just over 300 residents, it feels wrapped in stillness, its handful of shops and homes gathered neatly along the tracks.
Agriculture and rail history shape the town, while nearby farms keep the land alive and green. Visitors find charm in the preserved depot and the friendliness of neighbors who always wave.
Festivals occasionally spark life into its streets, but most days are lived in a calm rhythm. The air feels unhurried, like a pause that lasts all day.
Where is Donalds?
Donalds sits in Abbeville County, about 15 miles north of Abbeville city. It is reached by SC-184 or SC-178, two roads that cross fields and woodlots.
The train tracks run through the town, though fewer trains pass these days. Its placement along quiet roads gives it an easy seclusion.
15. Promised Land
Promised Land is a historic African American community, rich in heritage yet small in size. Established after the Civil War by freedmen, it has fewer than 100 residents today but a legacy that speaks volumes.
Old churches and cemeteries whisper of generations who built lives from resilience and hope. Life here is rooted in family, faith, and farming, creating a sense of belonging that runs deeper than the soil.
The surrounding forests and fields keep it hushed, far from highways or commercial bustle. Visitors come to trace history and find peace in the stillness.
Where is Promised Land?
Promised Land is located in Greenwood County, about 8 miles south of the city of Greenwood. It’s accessed via SC-10, a two-lane highway that soon slips into the countryside.
The approach is quiet, lined with fields and stands of pine. Once there, you feel the weight of history wrapped in peace.
14. West Union
West Union sits quietly beside Walhalla, yet it feels like its own hidden world. With just over 200 residents, the town is a cluster of homes and churches nestled among foothills and streams.
The air carries the scent of pines, and evenings glow with fireflies in backyards. Outdoor lovers use the town as a gateway to the Blue Ridge foothills and nearby waterfalls, though life here itself is peaceful and still. Many residents are retirees seeking quiet, while others farm or commute to nearby towns.
There’s no rush, no noise—just the steady hum of small-town life.
Where is West Union?
West Union is in Oconee County, about 3 miles west of Walhalla and 10 miles from the Georgia line. It’s reached by SC-28, which winds through foothills and small valleys.
The town rests against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge, giving it a sense of seclusion. It feels close by—but once there, the outside world feels far away.
13. Townville
Townville is a modest lakeside community, sitting quietly on the shores of Lake Hartwell. With scattered homes, family farms, and lake cabins, it feels like a patchwork of solitude and simplicity.
Fishing, boating, and lakeside picnics are the rhythms of life here, while the old community store and churches anchor its heart. The economy is tied to farming and recreation, with locals living simply and contentedly.
On summer evenings, you can hear laughter across the water and the low hum of cicadas in the fields. It’s a place of sunlit stillness, of neighbors who wave as you pass.
Where is Townville?
Townville is in Anderson County, about 15 miles southwest of Anderson City and near the Georgia border. You reach it via SC-24 or SC-243, roads that pass through farmland and wooded shores.
Lake Hartwell surrounds much of the area, adding to the town’s seclusion. It feels like a small retreat hidden within the lake country.
12. Cross Anchor
Cross Anchor is a crossroads village with a history dating back to the Revolution, when travelers paused at this very bend of the road. Today, its population is barely over 100, and the hush of history lies over everything. A few old homes, a church, and the quiet air of fields define the town.
Stories say its name comes from river ferrymen who would “cross and anchor,” and the town has felt steady ever since. Farming still shapes the land, while nearby Musgrove Mill State Historic Site offers a glimpse into its Revolutionary War roots.
It’s a town that feels caught between eras, existing quietly on its own terms.
Where is Cross Anchor?
Cross Anchor sits in Spartanburg County, near the Laurens County line, about 15 miles south of Spartanburg city. The community lies along SC-49 and SC-56, a pair of rural highways that connect it to Union and Clinton while keeping it well off the main interstate corridors.
The surrounding countryside is a patchwork of farmland, hardwood forest, and quiet ridges. Driving in feels like slipping away from the Upstate’s busier towns, with the road narrowing to two lanes and the sense of history deepening at every bend.
11. Norris
Norris is a little Appalachian foothills town where pine-covered hills cradle a small community of fewer than 1,000 residents. The air smells of fresh wood and rain, and the pace is unhurried.
Once a mill town, it now thrives quietly as a residential community with deep ties to its history. Outdoor enthusiasts find it a perfect launch point for nearby rivers, forests, and trails. There’s little commerce beyond family-run shops and the post office, but there’s an abundance of neighborly warmth.
Sunsets paint the hills gold, and the quiet feels almost sacred.
Where is Norris?
Norris is located in Pickens County, about 10 miles west of Clemson and nestled in the Appalachian foothills. The town is reached via SC-93, a scenic two-lane route.
Its small size and surrounding hills lend it a sense of retreat from the world. Arriving there feels like finding a small clearing hidden in the forest.
10. Due West
Due West is a charming small town with a population of about 1,200 people, offering a peaceful atmosphere that I find incredibly inviting. Nestled in the rolling hills of Abbeville County, it’s home to Erskine College, which adds a touch of academic spirit to the community.
I love strolling through the historic district, where beautifully preserved 19th-century homes tell stories of the past. The town’s economy revolves around education and small local businesses, giving it a tight-knit, community-focused feel.
What makes Due West truly secluded is its tranquil setting far from bustling cities, where quiet streets and friendly waves from locals are the norm. It’s the kind of place where I can unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life without the distractions of modern urban stress.
Where is Due West?
Due West is located in the heart of Western South Carolina, nestled within Abbeville County’s rural landscape. Its seclusion is heightened by the fact that it’s miles away from major highways and urban centers, surrounded by picturesque farmlands and forests.
To get there, I usually take a scenic drive along US-178 or SC-20, enjoying the peaceful countryside along the way. The town’s remote location makes it a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the noise and pace of city life.
9. McCormick
McCormick is a historic town with a population of roughly 2,000 residents, offering a quaint and quiet atmosphere that I find deeply relaxing. Rich in gold mining history, it’s home to the McCormick Arts Council at the Keturah (MACK), where local art and cultural events thrive.
I enjoy wandering through the charming downtown area, where antique shops and eateries invite leisurely afternoons. The local economy is supported by tourism and small businesses, reflecting the town’s commitment to preserving its heritage.
McCormick’s seclusion is accentuated by its surrounding forests and proximity to pristine state parks, making it a hidden treasure in South Carolina’s countryside. It’s a place where I can immerse myself in history and nature without the interruptions of city life.
Where is McCormick?
Situated near the Georgia border in Western South Carolina, McCormick is nestled between the expansive Sumter National Forest and the serene waters of the Savannah River.
Its secluded nature is enhanced by the lush greenery and limited urban development in the area. When I travel there, I often take US-221 or SC-28, enjoying the peaceful drive through forested landscapes.
The town’s remote location makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of history and natural beauty away from crowded tourist hotspots.
8. Cross Hill
Cross Hill is a tiny community with an approximate population of 500 people, offering a peaceful lakeside retreat that I find perfect for relaxation. Nestled by Lake Greenwood, it’s a haven for fishing, boating, and enjoying stunning sunsets over the water.
The town itself is quaint, with local eateries and shops that give a glimpse into the laid-back lifestyle of its residents. While there isn’t much in the way of industry, the area thrives on agriculture and the recreational opportunities provided by the lake.
Cross Hill’s seclusion stems from its small size and tranquil surroundings, making it a wonderful spot to disconnect and soak in the serenity of lakeside living.
Where is Cross Hill?
Located in Laurens County in Western South Carolina, Cross Hill sits quietly along the shores of Lake Greenwood. Its seclusion is amplified by its rural setting and the expansive natural landscapes that envelop the town.
To reach Cross Hill, I usually take SC-39, which winds through scenic farmlands and forests. The journey itself is a peaceful escape, leading to a destination where the hustle of city life feels worlds away.
7. Six Mile
Six Mile is a delightful small town with a population of about 700 residents, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere that I truly appreciate. The town is known for its proximity to Lake Keowee, making it a great spot for boating, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors.
Each year, I look forward to the Issaqueena Festival, a local event that celebrates the community’s heritage with music, food, and crafts. The economy here is driven by small businesses and the surrounding agricultural areas, giving it a genuine small-town feel.
Six Mile’s seclusion comes from its tucked-away location amidst rolling hills and forests, providing a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle. It’s a place where I can unwind and immerse myself in the simple pleasures of rural life.
Where is Six Mile?
Situated in Pickens County of Western South Carolina, Six Mile lies just a short drive from the city of Clemson yet feels worlds apart due to its serene setting. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding natural beauty of the Appalachian foothills and its distance from major highways.
I usually reach Six Mile by taking SC-133, enjoying the scenic route through lush landscapes. The town’s remote location makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet escape with easy access to outdoor adventures.
6. Cleveland
Cleveland is a quaint community nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with a small population that makes it feel like a hidden retreat. One of my favorite aspects is its proximity to Table Rock Mountain, offering some of the best hiking and scenic views in the region.
The area is a paradise for nature lovers like me, with easy access to Caesars Head State Park and countless trails to explore. Tourism focused on outdoor recreation is the mainstay here, supporting local businesses that cater to adventurers.
What makes Cleveland truly secluded is its mountainous backdrop and the enveloping forests that provide a serene escape from urban life. It’s a destination where I can reconnect with nature and find solace in the great outdoors.
Where is Cleveland?
Found in northeastern Greenville County, Cleveland sits amid the rolling landscapes of Western South Carolina. Its seclusion is accentuated by its remote mountain location, far from the noise of city traffic and crowded streets.
I often take US-276 to reach Cleveland, a route that winds through breathtaking mountain scenery. The journey itself feels like a retreat, leading to a place where the beauty of nature takes center stage.
5. Sunset
Sunset is a hidden gem with a small, scattered population, offering breathtaking vistas and quiet country roads that I find irresistibly charming. Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s the perfect spot for those who appreciate stunning natural beauty.
I love exploring the nearby Jocassee Gorges and spending time on Lake Keowee, where the clear waters are ideal for boating and fishing. Real estate here includes beautiful mountain homes and luxury communities, attracting those who seek both seclusion and comfort.
Sunset’s remoteness comes from its mountain setting and the peaceful, winding roads that lead you away from the hustle of daily life. It’s a serene escape where I can truly unwind and soak in the panoramic views.
Where is Sunset?
Located in Pickens County near the North Carolina border, Sunset sits high in the mountains of Western South Carolina. Its secluded nature is enhanced by the lack of major highways and the enveloping forests that surround it.
To get there, I often take the scenic SC-11 and venture onto smaller roads that meander through the hills. The journey to Sunset feels like a step back in time, leading to a tranquil place where the beauty of the mountains is ever-present.
4. Salem
Salem is a tiny town with a population of just around 135 people, offering a peaceful sanctuary with breathtaking scenery that I find truly captivating. Nestled amidst forests and lakes, it’s a gateway to outdoor adventures on Lake Jocassee and Lake Keowee.
I especially enjoy visiting Devils Fork State Park, where I can hike, camp, and kayak in pristine natural surroundings. The local economy revolves around tourism and outdoor recreation, supporting a simple, nature-focused lifestyle.
Salem’s seclusion is due to its small size and remote location, making it a perfect hideaway for those seeking tranquility. It’s a place where I can escape the crowds and immerse myself in the beauty of the natural world.
Where is Salem?
Situated in the northern part of Oconee County in Western South Carolina, Salem lies close to the North Carolina border. Its remoteness is accentuated by its location amid vast forests and the absence of bustling urban centers.
I usually reach Salem by taking SC-130, a route that offers stunning views as it winds through the countryside. This secluded setting makes Salem an ideal retreat for those looking to find peace and quiet in nature’s embrace.
3. Long Creek
Long Creek is a remote area with a sparse population, known for its outdoor adventures and unspoiled natural beauty that I find exhilarating. It’s a hotspot for whitewater rafting on the Chattooga River, offering thrilling experiences for adventure enthusiasts like me.
The area is also home to Chattooga Belle Farm, where I enjoy picking fresh fruit and sipping local spirits at their distillery. Agriculture and outdoor recreation are the lifeblood of the local economy, supporting a lifestyle closely connected to the land.
Long Creek’s seclusion comes from its tucked-away location in the mountains and the vast stretches of wilderness that surround it. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
Where is Long Creek?
Located in the far western corner of Oconee County, Long Creek sits near the Georgia border amidst the majestic Appalachian Mountains. Its isolation is heightened by the expansive forests and the minimal development in the area.
I get there by taking SC-76, a scenic route that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Long Creek’s remote location makes it an ideal escape for anyone looking to unplug and experience the untamed beauty of the mountains.
2. Tamassee
Tamassee is a quiet hamlet where rolling hills and pristine lakes create a tranquil environment I find absolutely rejuvenating. With a small population, it offers a close connection to nature, surrounded by the beauty of the Appalachian foothills.
I enjoy hiking the Hidden Falls trail and exploring the serene landscapes that define the area. While there aren’t many industries here, the community thrives on agriculture and the simplicity of rural life.
Tamassee’s seclusion is due to its off-the-beaten-path location and the untouched natural surroundings that make it a perfect retreat from the urban hustle. It’s a place where I can truly disconnect and savor the peacefulness of the countryside.
Where is Tamassee?
Nestled in Oconee County in Western South Carolina, Tamassee sits close to the North Carolina border amidst lush forests and tranquil lakes. Its secluded nature is enhanced by its distance from major roads and the enveloping wilderness.
To reach Tamassee, I often take SC-11 and venture onto smaller country roads that lead me deeper into the serene landscape. The journey itself is part of the charm, bringing me to a place where time seems to slow down and nature takes center stage.
1. Mountain Rest
Mountain Rest is a secluded community tucked away in the Sumter National Forest, offering serene landscapes and waterfalls that I find absolutely breathtaking. With a small, scattered population, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
I particularly love visiting the Oconee Station Falls and taking in the tranquil sounds of the cascading water. The main industries here revolve around tourism and outdoor recreation, supporting a lifestyle deeply connected to nature.
Mountain Rest’s seclusion comes from its location within the national forest and the minimal development that preserves its pristine environment. It’s my go-to spot when I want to get away from it all and immerse myself in the peaceful embrace of the wilderness.
Where is Mountain Rest?
Located in the northern reaches of Oconee County, Mountain Rest sits deep within the Sumter National Forest in Western South Carolina. Its remoteness is heightened by the dense forests and winding mountain roads that lead there.
I get to Mountain Rest by taking SC-28, a route that offers stunning views and a real sense of escape. The seclusion of Mountain Rest makes it an ideal destination for anyone looking to disconnect from the hectic pace of everyday life and reconnect with nature.
