See the Rare Oconee Bell Flower

One of the rarest wildflowers in North America, the beautiful Oconee Bell blooms only from mid-March to early April in select spots in Lake Hartwell Country and its surrounding mountains. Now that we’re in March, it’s approaching peak season for this elusive flower. Make the most of our warmer weather and hit the trails – can you spot it hidden among the underbrush?

Oconee Bell flowers are striking in their unique appearance.

About the Oconee Bell

Officially called shortia galacifolia, the Oconee Bell is a pearly white flower that blooms close to the ground. Rather than the usual greenery we see on most flowers, the Oconee Bell features a striking reddish-yellow stem and leaves. Preferring dark areas with more than 50 inches of annual rainfall, the mountainous gorges and winding rivers of Oconee County are an ideal home for this particular and territorial plant. Their roots often knit together in a dense mat, making them perfectly built for sloping hills and eroding cliffs. Often taking over large plots of soil just for themselves, you’re likely to discover a whole patch of flowers if just one catches your eye.

Natural Beauty

The best place to start your search for the Oconee Bell flower is Devils Fork State Park, one of the seven state parks and protected sites here in Lake Hartwell Country. The flowers are so popular there that the park has even dedicated a nature trail just to the rare blooms: The Oconee Bell Nature Trail, a family-friendly one-mile loop. The easy trail will allow you to focus on the foliage around you rather than a technical hike, plus it’s a great way to introduce kids to this natural rarity.

If you prefer a little more adventure and exploration, head up to Jocassee Gorges and see where you can spot the "small plant with saw-toothed leaves,” as botanist Andre Michaux called the flower back in the 1700s. The Oconee Bell thrives in disturbed soil, whether through natural erosion or human interference, so the ridges and escarpments of Jocassee Gorges are a well-suited environment for the plant.

Jocassee Gorges are home to hidden patches of Oconee Bell flowers throughout their hills.

Plant Your Roots

While modern gardeners and horticulturists have managed to cultivate the Oconee Bell, it still thrives best in the wild mountains of Lake Hartwell Country. Find a cozy spot to start your trek into the wild – and a comfortable place to return to after a day well spent searching for flowers.

Devils Fork State Park is home to 20 cabins and villas available to rent, as well as two campgrounds. With nightly or longer-term rates, you can find the perfectly rustic lodging to use as your home base. Or, if you prefer to stay in town, we suggest finding a place near Walhalla, where you can even pose with a photo op: a wall mural of the Oconee Bell on the corner of S. Highway 28 and N. Oak Street is a great backdrop to commemorate your excursion.

Celebrate The Bell

Every year, Friends of Jocassee hosts Bellfest: a fun event that takes the hunt for the Oconee Bell and turns it into a day-long party.  From 10am-3pm on March 21, 2026, Devils Fork State Park will host Bellfest, including guided nature walks, live music, crafts, barbecue, and even a magic show! Plus, once the event is over, you can explore more of the state park and see more of our region’s lovely landscape.

Devils Fork State Park offers not only gorgeous views of Lake Jocassee but also Oconee Bell flowers in springtime!

Don’t miss your chance to see this mysterious yet beautiful local gem in 2026. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your best camera, and see if you can find an Oconee Bell flower this spring. Happy hunting!