Oconee Station State Historic Site FAQ
If you have a problem or question not answered in our FAQs, please contact us.
Why is Oconee Station Historic?
Oconee Station was established in 1792 by the South Carolina State Militia to protect the state’s western border from hostel Native Americans. The site was garrisoned by 20 -30 troops from 1792 -1799. The site also served as an Indian trading post from 1795 -1809. Two structures survive from the frontier time period, a stone building that served as part of the fort and a brick house that served as the home for the merchant who operated the Indian trading post.
When are the buildings open at Oconee Station?
They are open from 9pm – 5pm on Saturday and by appointment.
Is Oconee Station open year round?
Yes, however the park is closed on weekdays during the coldest months of the year.
Is the historic site handicap accessible?
Not at this time. The top of a steep hill was chosen for the site for military reasons. This makes accessing the site difficult for disabled visitors.
When are the wildflowers in bloom?
The flower season begins in late February and last until May.
Is fishing allowed in the pond?
Yes, the pond is stocked with blue gill and largemouth bass.
How difficult is the trail at Oconee Station?
The trail to Station Cove Falls is an easy mile and a half. It takes about an hour and a half to walk to the falls and return to the main parking area.
What are your metal detection guidelines for State Parks and State Park properties?
Where is the closest place to eat?
Walhalla and West Union are located ten miles to the southwest of the park on Highway 11. There are several restraints located there.
Where is the closest lodging?
There are three state parks located within a half hour’s drive along Highway 11 all of which have camping and rental cabins. The closest hotels are located in the town of Seneca, SC.
Where can a guest locate the trash cans at Oconee Station?
Oconee Station State Historic Site is a trash free property. There are no trash cans. Everyone is asked to remove their own trash.
How do I make a reservation at a state park?
Reservations at state parks may be made up to 11 months in advance. There are three convenient ways to make reservations at South Carolina State Parks:
Call toll free 1-866-345-PARK (7275)
Online at
SouthCarolinaParks.com or
click here to reserve
At the park of your choice, by calling the park directly
Reservations for group camps or primitive camping must still be made through the state parks.
Camping Reservations: Reservations requested less than one (1) day in advance of check-in must be made directly through the park.
For example: If today is Friday and you are making a reservation checking in on today, Friday, you must make the reservation by contacting the park directly. Campsite reservations require payment in full at the time the reservation is made.
Cabin Reservations & Day Use Facilities: Reservations requested LESS THAN three (3) days in advance of check-in must be made directly through the park.
For example: If today is Wednesday and you are making a reservation for the upcoming Friday, you must make the reservation by contacting the park directly.
How far in advance may I make a reservation?
Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance. For example: If you would like to check in on November 1, 2012 you can call or go online to make reservations on December 1, 2011.
What is the cancellation policy for park reservations?
Fees assessed to reservation cancellations or changes are based on the amount of notice given in advance of the arrival date. Transaction fees are not refundable. Below is more detailed information:
CANCELLATION POLICY:
|
LODGING
|
CAMPING
|
DAY-USE
|
|
Notice Given
|
Fee / Penalty
|
Notice Given
|
Fee / Penalty
|
Notice Given
|
Fee / Penalty
|
|
30+ Days
|
$10 Handling Fee
|
15+ Days
|
$10 Handling Fee
|
15+ Days
|
No Charge
|
|
15-29 Days
|
1 night charge
|
4-14 Days
|
1 night charge
|
4-14 Days
|
$10 Handling Fee
|
|
0-14 Days
|
Entire deposit
|
0-3 Days
|
Entire deposit
|
0-3 Days
|
Entire deposit
|
TRANSFER / CHANGE POLICY *:
|
LODGING
|
CAMPING
|
DAY-USE
|
|
Notice Given
|
Fee / Penalty
|
Notice Given
|
Fee / Penalty
|
Notice Given
|
Fee / Penalty
|
|
30+ Days
|
No Charge
|
15+ Days
|
No Charge
|
15+ Days
|
No Charge
|
|
15-29 Days
|
$10 Handling Fee
|
4-14 Days
|
$10 Handling Fee
|
4-14 Days
|
$10 Handling Fee
|
|
0-14 Days
|
Cancellation Required
|
0-3 Days
|
Cancellation Required
|
0-3 Days
|
Cancellation Required
|
* Changes that result in additional nights reserved will not incur handling fees or penalties, but will be subject to non-refundable transaction fees for the additional nights.
EARLY DEPARTURE POLICY: Cancellation Policy applies in conjunction with Fee Policy for Emergency Waivers.
Are pets allowed in state parks?
Pets are allowed in most outdoor areas provided they are kept under physical restraint or on a leash not longer than six feet. Owners will be asked to remove noisy or dangerous pets or pets that threaten or harass wildlife. Pets are not allowed in or around cabins, cabin areas or other lodging facilities.
Which parks offer free wi-fi internet service?
The following parks offer free wifi in some capacity on the park: Caesars Head State Park, Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, Devils Fork State Park, Dreher Island State Park, Edisto Beach State Park, Hickory Knob State Resort Park, Hunting Island State Park, Lake Greenwood State Park, Myrtle Beach State Park, Oconee State Park, Paris Mountain State Park, Poinsett State Park, Santee State Park, Table Rock State Park and Lake Hartwell State Park. For more detailed information, please contact the park you are interested in visiting, directly.
What is the discount policy for senior citizens, blind and disabled citizens?
South Carolina residents who are at least 65 years of age, legally blind or disabled, qualify for certain rate reductions. Proof of age or disability is required. These qualifying residents receive 35% off admission fees, camping, picnic shelters, golf greens fees and fishing pier admission. In order to receive the camping discount, qualifying individuals MUST occupy the site reserved. Also these qualifying residents may purchase a Palmetto Passport for $37.50 (50% off) for admission to all state parks for the period of one year. There are NO rate reductions for lodging, building or meeting facility rentals, leased facilities, resale items or equipment rentals.
Do out-of-state senior citizens, blind or disabled citizens receive any discounts?
The same rate reductions as listed in the question above are extended to out-of-state U.S. residents only at the following parks: Baker Creek, Calhoun Falls, Hamilton Branch, Hickory Knob, Lake Hartwell and Sadlers Creek, EXCEPT for the Palmetto Passport discount.
What are your metal detection guidelines for State Parks and State Park properties?
What are your geocaching guidlelines for state parks and state park properties?
How can I get printed information on state park camping and lodging?
Where can I find information about State Park employment, internships, etc?
What is the minimum age required to reserve/occupy a campsite?
To reserve and/or occupy a campsite, a member of the party must be least 18 years of age and present at the time of check in. They must also be present on the site with the camping equipment.
Are alcoholic beverages allowed on park property?
It is unlawful for any person to consume or display in public any beverage of alcoholic content, including beer and wine, except where specifically authorized by the Department.
Are golf carts permitted on state parks?
For information regarding the use of a personal golf cart, please contact the individual park that you plan to visit.