The best camping in J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park, SC
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Discover the scenic J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park.
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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park
Hawe Creek Campground
1. Hawe Creek Campground
100%
(1)
One mile away from the hub of boat-launching, you’ll find Hawe Creek Campground
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Campfires
Modoc Campground
2. Modoc Campground
If you wanted a scenic camping spot close to the Thurmond Dam, Modoc Campground is your best bet
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Top-rated campsites near J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park
Pheonix meadows
1. Pheonix meadows
95%
(20)
26mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
Come join us on our little slice of heaven on earth! Activities include stargazing, wildlife viewing, hiking, or just chill and grill by the creek! Rv’s and campers may set up in the field. Tent and car campers are welcome to set up alongside the creek! The field sites offer wonderful sunset views and starlit night skies! The creek side site offers a picnic table, grill, and the peaceful serenity and sounds of an old growth forest.
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Hesed Homestead
2. Hesed Homestead
100%
(14)
27mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 1 site
Here at our little homestead, surrounded by nature, come enjoy some time away in our clean & comfy vintage-style RV.
Nestled between the edge of our field and our barn, you’ll be far enough away from our home to enjoy some privacy and quiet ( except for maybe some clucks from our chickens or baas from our two sheep nearby). Enjoy a cup of coffee as you watch the sunrise over the hill or roast a marshmallow or two. We are grateful to share the beauty of our land with you.
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Leach Homestead campground
3. Leach Homestead campground
96%
(63)
33mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Leach Homestead, where 50 acres of rolling hills, peaceful forests, open fields, and tranquil ponds await. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, or reconnect with nature, our property offers a little something for everyone.
Enjoy fishing in our stocked ponds or spend the day at the sandy beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles. Winding trails weave throughout the property, ideal for hiking or riding. We offer primitive campsites for those who love a rustic outdoor experience and a cozy on-site apartment with a private bathroom and shower for guests who prefer the comforts of home. Friendly pets are always welcome.
We’re excited to now offer four brand-new RV sites, each equipped with 50-amp, 30-amp, and 110 electric hookups, water access, and we now have direct sewer hookups. These easy-access back-in sites are available for short stays or long-term bookings.
For you golf enthusiasts, Persimmon Hill golf course is 2 miles down the street from here.
Guests are also invited to enjoy complimentary kayak use or rent our of our side by side for an added adventure.
History enthusiasts will appreciate that Mine Creek, which runs through the property, played a role in Civil War history.
Visit https://www.carolana.com/SC/Revolution/revolution_mine_creek.html to learn more. You’ll find several historical markers throughout the surrounding area.
Visit our website for more details about the property: www.leachhomestead.com
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Deerfield Farms
4. Deerfield Farms
100%
(195)
38mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Deerfield farms is a quiet property west of Historic Augusta Ga. Home of the Masters very secluded and private. Less than two hours east of Atlanta and less than 2 and half hours from Savannah.
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Full hookups
Lizardsniffer
5. Lizardsniffer
98%
(94)
43mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Lizardsniffer is a working horse farm with a variety of rental cabins and RV slips.
We DO allow tent camping.
Each RV slip has water, septic, 50 amp service and Wifi.
An Amenities Cabin is provided for use by all RV site guests. The cabin includes a full-sized washer/dryer, a full bathroom with bidet, and an oversized jacuzzi tub. Guests must sign-up for a 4-hour timeslot. The cabin is available for use between the hours of 8am-8pm.
Many of our RV sites feature private fenced paddocks for people bringing their horses or dogs. Horse visitors require all current paperwork (Coggins, etc.). Dog visitors must be social and friendly and thus are allowed to explore the farm with their owners off-leash if desired.
The property includes miles of trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. Bring your own horse or experienced riders may be able to ride one of ours (subject to weight/experience matching with a horse).
There is a small private stocked lake open to all guests of Lizardsniffer for fishing and swimming. At the lake you will find an amenities cabin called Glowy Bobber that has a full bathroom and outdoor shower as well as Kayaks and floats for guest use.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Camp Clatworthy
6. Camp Clatworthy
95%
(267)
45mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Free use of kayaks and a canoe on an undeveloped 18 acre lake is included when you camp here. Several miles of trails, dirt roads and streams wind through hundreds of acres which you are free to explore.
The property has been owned by members of our family for 75 years or more with areas of it family-owned since the 1800's. A large portion of the property is dedicated to sustainable loblolly pine forests dating back to the 1980's. A significant area of the property is dedicated to native hardwood forest and has some of the oldest and largest white oak, poplar, elm and shortleaf pines in the upstate. The remainder of the property is pasture; home to Black Angus cattle. We look forward to sharing this unique property with you!
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Showers
Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC
7. Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC
96%
(192)
45mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC is a private lodging establishment offering short term sites to campers, transient guest and outdoor enthusiast who desire rest, relaxation and recreation. The fringe land is old farm land now being repurposed for outdoor activities. The RV Park is the developed part of an old Farm planted in pines bordering Big Creek/Lake Murray.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
The Fenn Farm
8. The Fenn Farm
100%
(48)
47mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
ONLY OFFERING RV SPOT WITH SELF SUFFICIENT EQUIPMENT AND TENT CAMPERS.Welcome to The Fenn Farm! We currently have a 1 spot open for RV'S Has water, 50 amp power and septic if needed. Primitive camping is offered for a different rate upon request. You will LOVE our primitive spot!!!!Located on 15 acres with morning and evening deer sightings, some Nigerian dwarf goats to visit, and walking paths through the property down to the creek and falls, come and enjoy the simple life. From the neighboring cows and horses to the beautiful sunsets, come enjoy the peace and serenity! Only 15 to 30 minutes from most places in Athens including downtown. Small town, grocery, and small restaurants located about 5 to 7 minutes away. 25 minutes away from Watson Mill State park.
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Toilets
Full hookups
Serenity on the Saluda
9. Serenity on the Saluda
99%
(180)
49mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This property has two river campsites, two campsites in the woods and one more just a stones throw from the river. The river sites are separated by a small patch of woods, so if you are looking for complete privacy, Hill Top or Hill Side is the place to go. PLEASE FOLLOW "ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS" as most GPS directions are not accurate. 30 minutes to Diamond Hill Mine, 15 minutes to The Shoals MX. There is a one mile hiking path around the property. I sell firewood so please DO NOT CUT LIVE TREES!
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3 Creeks Camp and Nature Preserve
10. 3 Creeks Camp and Nature Preserve
96%
(258)
49mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This Property was purchased by Grandfather in the 70s and then was passed to my Mother. In 2013 I decided to live life differently and start from the ground up building with natural materials and found materials. At that time I was fortunate enough to have the land passed to me and I started building a home for myself and to be close to my mothers home nearby. After achieving the basics I decided that the best use of this beautiful land was to create a place for people to relax and enjoy, a park like environment dedicated to preserving natural beauty and amplifying it through a permaculture lifestyle. 8 years later I am blown away at how far the dream has become a reality and love sharing my space with people from all over the country.
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The Great Escape
11. The Great Escape
100%
(14)
50mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Glamping anyone? Located on 4 acres just 10 miles from downtown Athens, the Great Escape has everything for the excitement of camping. The site is surrounded with tons of farmland and forest, making it a private oasis just minutes from excellent restaurants, nightlife, breweries, and all things UGA! Looking for hiking? You are just miles away from state parks! Get away your way....not the hotel way!
The Great Escape currently has power and water hook-up along with a septic holding tank to dump your black tank. We do ask that you dump your gray water directly on the ground. We also have 3 RV sites with full hook-ups for long-term renters and a spot for our camper that we rent out on Airbnb. This property offers privacy along with peace and security.
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Campfires
Full hookups
Peace Camp LLC
12. Peace Camp LLC
100%
(19)
50mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Peace Camp, nestled off the beaten path near Athens, GA, and on the outskirts of Colbert. If you're seeking a peaceful getaway where you can unwind, sleep undisturbed, and explore nearby points of interest, you've come to the right place.
Our site offers:
1 utility bench
1 prep table
1 small fire pit (please ensure no local fire bans)
This space was recently cleared and prepared with your comfort in mind. While there are no utilities available, potable water is available upon request. As stewards of nature, we kindly ask that you pack in and pack out your belongings, leaving only footprints behind.
So, pull up in your adventure van and enjoy a worry-free evening surrounded by the tranquility of Peace Camp.
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Campfires
Ravenwood Pond
13. Ravenwood Pond
100%
(4)
9.1mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
2 1/2 acre field located 1.7 miles from downtown McCormick SC, 3 miles from boat ramp at Strom Thurmond/ Clark’s Hill Lake also property has an 18 hole Disc Golf course and 2 acre pond.
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Campfires
Water hookup
Offgrid Glamping At Private Lake
14. Offgrid Glamping At Private Lake
100%
(6)
14mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 1 site
Get away to an offgrid experience on the bank of a large private pond surrounded by the magical forest, while having all the amenities of home. Wake up to watch the sun rising over the pond without leaving your bed. Later, sip wine while swinging on the hammock, ride our kayaks, fish, explore private wooded trails on foot or your mountain bike, & wrap up your day by sitting or cooking over the fire. There is no better way to relieve stress & energize your body & mind. You will want to come back.
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Ted & Tracy's RV Campground
15. Ted & Tracy's RV Campground
94%
(8)
15mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Ted & Tracy’s RV Campground offers 23 RV sites and 12 tent sites pleasantly located among trees with the soothing sounds of Upton Creek flowing nearby. This newly designed campground will become your favorite get-a-way destination!
Conveniently located only 1 hour away from UGA's Sanford Stadium, 45 minutes from Augusta, GA and less than 2 hours from Atlanta.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Liberty Hill Campground
16. Liberty Hill Campground
100%
(1)
15mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Liberty Hill Campground is located in rural McCormick South Carolina along a beautiful flowing creek and the ruins of the historic Shinburg Grist Mill. We are within short distance of mile of forest land roads that make for beautiful bike rides. The property is perfect for relaxing with family and friends. Clark Hill Lake is within 10 miles and great for day trips. Please note that we do not have a bathhouse or outhouse facilities so our campground is not suitable for tent camping or campers without toilets.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Skull Shoals Park & Campground
17. Skull Shoals Park & Campground
23mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Skull Shoals Park offers 18 full hookup RV sites and endless tent sites amongst the 68 acres of large pines!
Skull Shoals Park is also the perfect venue for your next event! Whether you're a camper looking for a peaceful getaway or a music lover seeking an outdoor concert or festival, Skull Shoals Park has you covered. We offer a variety of outdoor spaces for up to 3500 guests.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Fairway Neighbor RV Site
18. Fairway Neighbor RV Site
24mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 1 site
Private RV hookup located in a quiet residential backyard in Augusta. Includes water electric and sewer connections for a convenient and comfortable stay. Just minutes from Augusta’s most well-known golf course and close to local restaurants, shopping, and main roads. Ideal for short stays, tournament visitors, or travelers passing through. The red circled part is the parking area, and the blue circled part are hookups.
Pets
Full hookups
Sunny Day Adventures
19. Sunny Day Adventures
100%
(1)
29mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located right beside a beautiful pecan Grove, less then 2 miles from Historic downtown Abbeville, walking spaces for animals, located within 30 minutes from Lake Russell and Lake Secession
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Campfires
Full hookups
Small Stuff Farm
20. Small Stuff Farm
100%
(1)
30mi from J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
A beautiful small farm where we homestead. We have a large garden, including raised beds, and raise everything organically. No pesticides. We raise miniature horses, miniature Highland and Highland cross cattle, Kune Kune and Kune Kune cross pigs, as well as chickens and geese. We have a lovely 1+ acre pond in front of the main house, which is fully stocked with Brim, Channel Catfish and Largemouth Bass. This pond has a wonderful ecosystem and is home to Kingfishers, wood ducks, Storks, herons, egrets, and is a place where a nesting pair of Bald Eagles come for water, and an occasional fish. We have an in-ground swimming pool, and a paddle boat to take out on the pond.
Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend get away, or a chance to experience farm life on a small homestead, this place has a lot to offer.
We offer a canning class, making artisan bread, and a hayride (tractor pulled) around the property. Breakfast and lunch or breakfast and Dinner can be included in the stay at an additional charge.
We have 2 large horses that can be fed carrots, loved on, petted, and the possibility of some riding.
Gathering eggs, feeding the hens and pigs, playing with Titan the farm mascot (our Great Dane dog), or just relaxing around the pool, or around a fire pit, there is always something happening on our little farm.
The lady of the house has her Serv Safe certification for preparing and serving food and has been a home chef for parties and catering for several years.
A list of farm and house rules are provided at check in. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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shea
1 week ago
20 ft campervan
quiet little wooded spot to pull in for a night. travel plans changed due to weather and it was nice having this as an option versus going to a crowded public campground ⛺️
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S
Steve
2 weeks ago
34 ft travel trailer
Thomas has a wonderful set up for RV and tent camping The property is well maintained, peaceful and quiet. It has excellent fishing on the lake. Thomas was an excellent host and made sure we felt comfortable on his place. My family and friends will be returning in the very near future. I highly recommend Deerfield Farm
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A
Amy
2 weeks ago
Tent
Very private and the sounds were amazing. If you're looking for solitude, this is the place!
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Melissa
2 weeks ago
33 ft travel trailer
We loved Thomas's place(especially the clean enclosed bathroom). The screened in pavilion was great and the pond was lovely. There are two charming towns close by with restaurants and unique shopping. I highly recommend the spot!
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J
John
2 weeks ago
30 ft travel trailer
Nice secluded campground. Enjoyed our stay. Highly recommend,
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Zachary
3 weeks ago
Tent
Perfect spot for relaxing and fishing. Host was a really cool guy, informed us about the new shower we unfortunately didn’t get to use.
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A
Ana-Carolina
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
We came in late at night and camped at a field near the hill top. We saw it in the morning and the owner let us know but it’s okay to stay where we are. We also thought we booked an extra night. It didn’t come through. He was relaxed about it and we booked immediately the extra night. It is a very calm beautiful spot. Nice campfire spot in the woods and at night we heard some wildlife.
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J
Jay
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Amazing campsite and location!!! Just tiny walk to the river but feels like your in the woods!!! Amazing property and best owner! Make sure to get fire wood bundles as he delivers it to you in a John deer tractor! 6 stars if I could!!!
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Shawna
May 2026
Tent
With pets
Gorgeous campsite and very peaceful. We had a great time.
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S
Stephen
May 2026
Tent
With kids
Great place to camp. Quiet and well laid out.
Hosts are great and location is perfect.
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Dean
May 2026
20 ft travel trailer
We had a great time and will return. I will make the effort to meet the host next time. It is very secluded and peaceful and I'll do some fishing as well.
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Kathleen
May 2026
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
The RV sites were very large and very easy to pull our RV through. The park was beautiful and quite. All the hookups were updated. James was very informative and gave very accurate directions to the park.
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Natalie
May 2026
Weekend Trip to Hesed Homestead
Jessie is a pleasure to rent from. It’s such a cozy set up. We can’t wait to go back.
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K
Krystle
April 2026
40 ft toy hauler
Group trip
Ashely was great. She was very fast to responding if I had a question or anything. The property was beautiful as well. Easy to find and very convenient to Downtown Athens. We will definitely stay there again.
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V
Victoria
April 2026
Weekend Trip to 3 Creeks Camp and Nature Preserve
Damon was a nice host that offered assistance when needed. I stayed in the Creek Campsite and it was a joy! The property is beautiful and he has a web that was nice to sit on and look at the stars. Easy to navigate in and out of the site (even with a little sedan). Only stayed for one night, but it just so happened to be a night full of music and a light show.
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Mandi
April 2026
27 ft travel trailer
With pets
We had a great time here! It was very quiet and a beautiful spot right on the river.
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Bryan
April 2026
Tent
This is the second time going to Camp Clatworthy and it was just as serene as last time. Plenty of firewood on hand, a clean primitive site, and one heck of a view. Though I wasn't as successful as last time, Lake Legion is a perfect spot to bass fish. I recommend bringing a kayak or canoe and go explore it.
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Kevin
April 2026
Tent
With kids
My boys and I stayed at Lakeside #1 and it was perfect for us. Alex even brought us a kayak to use, which was awesome. Plenty of firewood too. We had a great time and will definitely be back
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Sarah
April 2026
Tent
An absolutely beautiful tent camping area! Tucked inside the trees with gentle creek/waterfall, gentle sounds. I was able to make a big fire 🔥 & again the vibe was magical. No light pollution, so, falling up into the night sky. Fairies 🧚♀️ definitely live here.
I did have to 4 wheel it across a field to reach it, but, I have a Subaru so no worries.
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B
Bobbi Lynn
April 2026
Tent
We booked the hillside campsite at the last minute as we were driving south and were so impressed with the property! It was quiet, secluded and perfect for our overland rig. There was even a clean and well built pit toilet close by. We explored all the other campsites by he river and were blown away! John has created the perfect family spot and thought of everything! Highly recommend!
See moreJ. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park camping guide
Overview
About
Lake Strom Thurmond, J. Strom Thurmond Dam, Clarks Hill Lake—whatever you call this place, it’s a spot you need to see. Besides being one of the southeast’s largest lakes, at 71,000 acres, this dam hooks up the three major rivers that make Georgia and South Carolina BFFs. If the summer heat is beatin’ you up, take a peaceful walk along the Lake Springs Loop, feel the cool spray from your wake on the lake, or just dive right into those perfect blue waters. Ah, the Savannah River sounds nice right about now! This is one of the most visited lakes in the nation, and for good reason, so you’ll be in mighty fine company when you make it here.
Notable campgrounds
- Bussey Point: A tranquil retreat for those seeking a primitive camping experience amid lush greenery.
- LeRoy's Ferry: Offers a rustic and peaceful camping atmosphere, perfect for reconnecting with nature.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early through Recreation.gov to secure your spot at this popular destination.
- Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
- Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute openings.
- Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations when the park is full.
When to go
The best time to visit J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm temperatures ideal for water activities, though it can be crowded. Winters are less crowded but cooler, with some facilities possibly closed.
Know before you go
- Check the current boat ramp status online before planning your water activities.
- Be aware of wildlife and practice safety precautions while exploring the park.
- Accessibility varies across different areas of the park; plan accordingly.
- Stay informed about any road or area closures due to maintenance or weather conditions.
- Remember to bring cash for the camping fee, as it remains $10 per night.
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