The Southern Travelers Explore Conference (STE), a premier event connecting content creators and tourism professionals, will convene in Oconee County, South Carolina. The conference lasts from Friday, March 7, to Sunday, March 9, 2025. This sixth annual conference promises an immersive experience showcasing the region’s natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and vibrant Southern hospitality.

“We are excited to bring the Southern Travelers Explore Conference to Oconee County,” said Melody Pittman, conference co-creator. “This region provides so much to offer, from its breathtaking scenery to its charming towns and welcoming people. We know our attendees will be captivated by the beauty and unique experiences Oconee County has in store.”
Touring wondrous Oconee County
Conference attendees will enjoy tours of the county’s Waterfall Wonders, Seneca Walking Tour & Shopping, a Museum Crawl, and a Lake Jocassee boat tour. Oconee County benefits from room nights, dining, and shopping during the conference. Afterward, STE’s content creator attendees annually produce numerous articles about the conference destination. Their work will garner Oconee County priceless publicity. Therefore, when you see a gaggle of content creators around Oconee County, give them a wave and a friendly welcome.

“Visit Oconee SC is thrilled to welcome STE to our beautiful corner of South Carolina,” Charlotte Waters, Visit Oconee SC’s Marketing, Sales & Event Manager, said. “We look forward to showcasing Oconee County‘s natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality to travel writers from across the nation. This event would not be possible without the support of our incredible partners. They are Oconee County Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, Lake Hartwell Country, Upcountry South Carolina, the City of Seneca, the City of Westminster, and the City of Walhalla. Together, we’re excited to share the best of Oconee with the world!”
The STE Conference provides a platform for travel professionals to connect, learn, and collaborate. The weekend will feature educational sessions led by industry experts, interactive group discussions, and a marketplace connecting destinations with content creators. Attendees will also participate in local excursions, immersing themselves in Oconee County’s culture and attractions.
“The STE Conference is more than just a conference; it’s a community,” added Taylor Hardy, co-creator of the STE Conference. “We strive to create an environment where attendees can learn, grow, and build lasting relationships. We are excited to welcome our guests to an unforgettable Oconee County experience.”

Conference Highlights:
- Educational sessions on travel-related topics
- Networking opportunities with fellow travel professionals
- Interactive group discussions fostering collaboration and idea-sharing
- A marketplace connecting destinations with content creators
- Local excursions showcasing Oconee County’s beauty and attractions
- Opportunities to experience Southern hospitality and culture
About Southern Travelers Explore:
The Southern Travelers Explore Conference is an annual event that brings together travel writers, content creators, tourism professionals, and destinations to connect, learn, and explore the Southern United States. The conference is dedicated to fostering a supportive community and providing valuable professional development and collaboration opportunities.