Unique Natural Treasure growing Wild in OC

The Oconee Bell is a rare wild flower only found in the Jocassee Gorges region of Oconee County. Our Native American ancestors, the Cherokee, considered it to be a lucky omen of the rain gods since it grew close to the waters edge. According to Cherokee legend, it was the Oconee Bell that led them to the valley of the “Lost Maiden,” otherwise known as Jocassee. The Oconee Bell blooming season is just around the corner and the Mountain Lakes Convention and Visitors Bureau encourages residents to consider hiking to see them.  The Friends of Jocassee will host the First Annual Bell Fest on March 16 from 10am to 4pm at Devils Fork State Park.  The event features Oconee Bell trail tours, nature tours, lake tours as well as cultural and educational displays.