Eclectic Sun – FAQ’s: Lake Jocassee Boat Rentals

Is it ok to be late for my reservation?

No, think of it like any other reservation. If you are not here, you lose your reservation. Devils Fork State Park (where Eclectic Sun is located on Lake Jocassee) is extremely busy. When the parking is full, they start turning people away. We can only guarantee your parking if you are here no later than your reserved time.

Is my state park admission included with my reservation?

No. Everyone must pay their park admission and you can check Devils Fork State Park Website for more information. If anyone has an Annual SC State Park Pass, bring that, since it gets everyone in the car in.

Should I make a reservation or just do a walk up?

Reservations are the only way we can guarantee you a boat/parking if you are hereby your reservation time.

If I have a reservation am I guaranteed parking?

Only if you are in the park by your reservation time. We strongly encourage getting here at least 30 minutes to an hour before your rental time on weekends and holidays due to the traffic of the park filling up fast.

Do you accept walk ups?

On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays we will begin walkups at 9:30am IF there are any equipment available. It is on a first come first serve basis. We do not do same-day reservations.

What is your location?

Eclectic Sun is located on Lake Jocassee in Devils Fork State Park. Follow the signs to the single-vehicle parking/picnic area. 238 Buckeye Drive, Salem, SC 29676. There is an entrance/parking fee that will need to be paid to enter the park.

Are there alligators in the lake?

No, there are no alligators or sharks here at Jocassee.

What should I bring with me?

It is best to be prepared for all elements. Appropriate clothing for the season (layers), hat, sunglasses, water, snacks, sunscreen, towels, water shoes, dry box, or dry bag. We recommend you bring a cell phone for emergencies.

What’s included with my rental?

Paddles, lifejackets, and whistles are all included in your rental. We also offer a loner dry box or a dry bag and a map if chosen at no extra cost unless the item is lost or damaged.

Will I see any waterfalls?

The nearest waterfall is about 3 miles round trip of paddling and the next is 5 miles round trip. We do not guarantee that you will see any of them.

What is the difference between a canoe and a kayak?

A canoe is paddled with a single blade paddle, and the boat is open, with a paddler kneeling or sitting. Kayaks use a two-handled paddle, and there is a choice of sit in or sit on kayaks; sit-in kayaks, the paddler is inside a cockpit. Sit on kayaks have the paddler sitting on top of the kayak, more open to the elements.

Am I required to wear a life jacket?

YES, absolutely.

Will I get wet?

It is highly likely you will get wet when kayaking, even if you don’t take a tumble into the water! Your feet are likely to get wet when launching into the water, and your paddles and people paddling around you are likely to splash you too.

Are there age restrictions to rent the equipment?

You must be at least 18 years or older to rent our equipment. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Are there age restrictions to ride on the equipment?

There are no age restrictions if the minor is accompanied by a responsible adult. We provide a proper fitting life jacket from infant-adult.

Can I purchase a gift certificate?
What if I need to cancel my reservation?

Cancel at least 72 hours before your rental and you will receive a full refund, less any fees Eclectic Sun has already paid. Cancellations 48 hours prior to the reservation you have the option to reschedule or to receive credit towards your next rental. Cancellations within 48 hours no refunds or credit will be given. Eclectic Sun reserves the right to cancel any rental at any time due to unsafe conditions or any other factors. If we cancel your reservation, you will receive a full refund. Once you start your rental, there will be no refunds given. IMPORTANT: If you are not here by your reserved time for your equipment you will be counted as a no show. No refunds, rescheduling, nor credit will be given.

Eclectic Sun Rentals – Important Info:

Please plan to arrive 30 min prior to your reservation time on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. We recommend that you carpool if you can. During the busy season (Memorial Day through Labor Day) Devils Fork State Park (where Eclectic Sun is located on Lake Jocassee) is extremely busy. When the parking is full, they start turning people away. If you have a reservation with us, you will need to show this confirmation to the Ranger to be able to enter the park. If you are a guest camping or staying in the villas, this does not pertain to you since you will already be in the park. We can only guarantee your parking if you are here no later than your reserved time. Make sure to come early, not late! IMPORTANT: If you are not here by your reserved time for your equipment you will be counted as a no show. No refunds, rescheduling, nor credit will be given.

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