Jones Gap State Park South Carolina
Discover breathtaking waterfalls, challenging hikes, and the serene Middle Saluda River at Jones Gap State Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds & secure parking
Jones Gap State Park South Carolina
Best Time
Beat the crowds & secure parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover breathtaking waterfalls, challenging hikes, and the serene Middle Saluda River at Jones Gap State Park.
"Rainbow Falls is worth the challenging hike, offering stunning views and a refreshing escape into nature."
🎯 Book Parking Ahead!
Weekend parking reservations are essential. Book online to guarantee entry!
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Trails are rocky and steep. Proper footwear is a must for a safe and enjoyable hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls Trail
A breathtaking 100-foot waterfall reached via a challenging 4.4-mile roundtrip hike with significant elevation gain. Worth the climb!
Middle Saluda River
Park-wide
Enjoy the soothing sounds of the river along the trails or take a refreshing dip in its deep swimming holes. Perfect for a nature escape.
Jones Gap Falls
Jones Gap Falls Trail
Another beautiful waterfall accessible via a challenging trail, offering a rewarding experience for hikers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weekend Reservations are Key
Trail Difficulty & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Parking Ahead!
Weekend parking reservations are essential. Book online to guarantee entry!
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Trails are rocky and steep. Proper footwear is a must for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 River Fun Awaits
The Middle Saluda River offers refreshing swimming holes. Bring a towel!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on trails, but ensure they're prepared for the challenge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Parking Ahead!
Weekend parking reservations are essential. Book online to guarantee entry!
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Trails are rocky and steep. Proper footwear is a must for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 River Fun Awaits
The Middle Saluda River offers refreshing swimming holes. Bring a towel!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on trails, but ensure they're prepared for the challenge.
🐻 Wildlife Sightings
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including black bears! Maintain a safe distance.
⚠️ Check Trail Status
Hurricane damage may affect trail accessibility. Verify open trails before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Jones Gap State Park's stunning natural beauty, particularly the Rainbow Falls and the serene Middle Saluda River. The challenging trails offer a rewarding experience for hikers, though they are not recommended for those with mobility issues or very young children. Weekend parking reservations are essential, and some trails may have closures due to past storm damage.
"Get a parking reservation if you are going on the weekend! It is worth the drive. It is a beautiful park with rivers, waterfalls, and rocky trails. The trails are very challenging. I do not recommend for very small children or people with mobility issues. Unfortunately, hurricane Helene took out a walking bridge and left a lot of tree damage. The two main trails are open. If you can handle steep inclines Rainbow Falls is worth the hike!"
Tracy Boyer
"Only Jones Gap Falls and Rainbow Falls trails are open. Start the trails from the parking lot up the left side of the creek since the bridge is out up by the ranger station. Nice little gift shop. Beautiful hike-in camping."
Rob Lesperance
"Amazing! I recommend coming early and booking a parking spot for $5. The park is very small and the trails are challenging and wonderful. The river is perfect for swimming, lots of deep swimming holes you can find."
Nathan Lambertson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jones Gap State Park is located near Cleveland, South Carolina. It's accessible by car, with GPS navigation recommended. The park is part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. +1
Yes, but parking is limited and requires reservations on weekends and holidays. It's highly recommended to book your parking spot in advance online to guarantee entry.
The parking fee is typically $5 per spot on weekends and holidays, with an additional $6 per person for park entry. State park passes may cover entry fees.
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching Jones Gap State Park. Driving is the most practical way to access the park.
The park has marked trails. Downloading an offline map or using a hiking app like AllTrails can be helpful, especially for longer hikes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Jones Gap State Park typically requires a day-use fee per person, in addition to any parking fees on weekends. A South Carolina State Parks pass can cover entry.
Parking reservations can be made on the South Carolina State Parks website. Weekend reservations, especially for the morning, fill up quickly.
Park hours can vary, but it's generally open from morning to evening. It's best to check the official South Carolina State Parks website for the most current operating hours.
While some sources suggest later entry might be possible, securing a reservation is the safest bet. Arriving after 2 PM on a Sunday might mean limited availability or being turned away if the park reaches capacity.
South Carolina State Parks often offer annual passes that can cover entry fees for multiple visits and parks, which can be cost-effective for frequent visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most popular trails are Rainbow Falls Trail (4.4 miles roundtrip, challenging) and Jones Gap Falls Trail. Both offer beautiful scenery and waterfalls. 
Yes, many trails, including Rainbow Falls, are considered challenging due to steep inclines and rocky terrain. They are not recommended for those with mobility issues or very young children.
Absolutely! The Middle Saluda River has several deep swimming holes that are perfect for a refreshing dip, especially on a warm day.
Yes, there is a visitor center that includes a nice gift shop where you can find souvenirs and essentials.
Visitors have reported seeing black bears, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and practice wildlife safety.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within Jones Gap State Park. It's recommended to pack a picnic or plan to eat in nearby towns like Greenville.
Yes, the park offers plenty of picnic areas, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes. Snacks and a packed lunch are highly recommended as there are no food services within the park.
Nearby Greenville, SC, offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining. +1
The visitor center has a gift shop that may offer some basic snacks or drinks, but it's not a full-service food establishment.
📸 📸 Photography
Rainbow Falls and Jones Gap Falls are prime photography locations. The Middle Saluda River also offers beautiful scenic shots.
Yes, with its waterfalls, river, and lush forest, Jones Gap State Park is an excellent destination for nature photographers.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the serene atmosphere.
Drone usage regulations can vary by state park. It's advisable to check with park authorities or the SC State Parks website for specific rules regarding drones.
Don't miss capturing the full cascade of Rainbow Falls and the unique rock formations along the river. The fall foliage also provides stunning photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While dogs are allowed, ensure your children are comfortable around animals. The visitor center's gift shop might offer some small distractions. For a more manageable experience, plan your visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and potential stress.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Packing your own picnic lunch and plenty of water is essential, as there are no food services within the park. This significantly cuts down on expenses compared to dining out. The natural beauty and hiking opportunities are the main attractions, and they are incredibly rewarding without breaking the bank.
🐶 Dog Owners
Always keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other hikers and wildlife. Remember to bring extra water for your pet and pack out any waste. The river can be a fun place for dogs to cool off, but supervise them closely.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Trails: Rainbow Falls & Beyond
+1Other notable trails include the Jones Gap Falls Trail, which also leads to a picturesque waterfall. For those seeking a more immersive experience, overnight backpacking is an option, with designated campsites accessible via hiking. It's important to note that due to past hurricane damage, some bridges may be out, and trail conditions can change. Always check the park's official website or with rangers for the latest updates on trail accessibility and safety.
When planning your hike, wear sturdy, broken-in hiking boots, as the terrain is rocky and uneven. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and consider a hiking pole for added stability on steep sections. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the park's natural beauty for future visitors.
The Middle Saluda River: Nature's Playground
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the river offers opportunities for recreation. During warmer months, visitors can enjoy swimming in the river's deep holes, providing a perfect way to cool off after a hike. The clear, cool water is a welcome respite, and many find the experience invigorating.
The riverbanks themselves are also a delight to explore, with opportunities for wading, skipping stones, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. The natural environment surrounding the river is rich with flora and fauna, making it a prime spot for nature observation and photography.
Planning Your Visit: Reservations and Logistics
Beyond parking, there are day-use fees per person, which can be covered by a South Carolina State Parks pass. It's wise to check the official SC State Parks website for the most up-to-date information on fees, reservation procedures, and park hours before your visit.
For those looking to extend their stay, primitive camping is available, offering a more immersive experience in the park's natural setting. This requires advance planning and adherence to park regulations.
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