The best camping in Calhoun Falls State Park, SC

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100% (3)

Discover the serene beauty of Calhoun Falls State Park and its lakeside allure.  

The best camping in Calhoun Falls State Park, SC

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Broad River Retreat

6. Broad River Retreat

99%
(95)
31mi from Calhoun Falls State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Comer, GA
Located on the beautiful Broad River, summer offers views of kayakers and tubers floating down the river, close enough to see, but far enough away to feel alone. Eagle spottings and colorful landscapes make this retreat a camper's heaven. Learn more about this land: 20 minutes from downtown Athens. A quarter mile down a winding dirt drive will open up to a beautiful scene of river and nature. Quiet solitude and you are at one with this piece of heaven. Keep your eyes open for the bald eagle. If you are agile enough, climb down the terrain to the river for an early morning bath or fish for lunch. This site is a singular rental. You will have it to yourself. You may choose to camp with friends in which there is space for an Rv and a pull behind or two small rvs. It can also be used to tent camp. There is a small shed with a full bunk on bottom and a twin on top. A table with two chairs and electric fireplace. There is in addition, a small A/C unit in the shed. It is a small space with nothing but outlets and a small refrigerator. You will need to bring all of your essentials. Pillows/Sheets/Linens/towels are not provided. The bath house is steps away. You will need towels/rags/soap/toilet paper and all essentials. It is merely a toilet, sink, and shower. There is a Weber charcoal grill available on site. Bring your essentials. You will need to bring your own firewood.. The driveway to the site is marked with the 1793 address sign on Davids Home Church rd. If you are driving N/NW on David's Home Church Rd, it is exactly 2 miles on the right from where you turned onto the road. If you are traveling E/SE on David's Home Church Rd, it is exactly 1.7 miles on the left from where you turned onto David's Home Church Rd. The gate will be closed, please close the gate back when you leave. Please take advantage of the Broad River outpost to rent kayaks/canoes/tubes. Also The Sandbar is located minutes away and they also provide rentals as well as zip lining. Royston has a grocery store and fast food.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night
The sunsets on the property are the best. If you are lucky, you will see one just like this!

12. The Great Escape

100%
(13)
38mi from Calhoun Falls State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Arnoldsville, GA
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 but does not have direct sewer access. We do have a spot to dump your black tank when you leave and we do allow gray tank 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. For the more adventurous type, we also have a boondocking option for those who do not need the extra amenities. This option offers tent camping in the woods or a space to park a camper or small motorhome for 1-2 nights. Please reach out first regarding this option.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$27
 / night
Lakeside RV Resort

13. Lakeside RV Resort

98%
(130)
38mi from Calhoun Falls State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Hull, GA
9.3 Acres of Private Serenity! 80 Acre private lake with dock, fire pit, covered pavilion, long quiet walks through the woods. Our famous Ila Cafe is only 5 minutes away! 20 minutes to Athens Restaurant, UGA Campus and Georgia Football! And only 20 minutes to Commerce Outlet Malls and Walmart, 15 minutes to the Boutier Winery, 30 minutes to Watson Mill State Park, located directly on an 80 acre reservoir lake! Enjoy fishing, kayaking, swimming, taking long walks, hiking, or just relaxing! Beautiful Lake View Campsite! Full Hook-ups! No motorboats. 50 Amp & 30 Amp Service. You'll have access to a Fire Pit and Pavillon; a Gas/Charcoal Grill, along with a dock on an 80 Acre Fishing Lake, and 2 double Kayaks with life vests. Swimming, Hiking, Fishing, Kayaking, Roasting Marshmallows, Picnicking or just Relaxing. Pets are welcome, on leashes, portable water, picnic tables, wifi, and trash bins are available on property. Camp fires are permitted (outside of burn bans), and firewood is available for sale on site. Guests love staying with us: "My wife, 2 dogs, and I had an amazing weekend stay at Debbie's campsite. The RV site was level and all the hookups were conveniently located and worked great. Her lakefront property is beautiful and we thoroughly enjoyed walking our dogs around the property and also taking some camping chairs down to the dock to take in the sunset. The firepit can hold a massive fire and I would definitely recommend buying some firewood from Debbie as it is perfectly seasoned and burns great. We really appreciated having the gas grill/charcoal combo grill on site to cook dinners on and there is plenty of space to play some yard games (cornhole, frisbee etc). We will absolutely come back!"
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$47
 / night
Mountain Creek Campground LLC

16. Mountain Creek Campground LLC

100%
(13)
42mi from Calhoun Falls State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Gray Court, SC
Currently 1 New Campsite operable with Full hookup. 28 Milles from Downtown Greenville. 13 Miles from Lake Rabon Park. 3.5 miles from Gray Court Dollar General and gas stations. 5 Miles from I385. 15 Miles from Walmart, Target, Publix in Simpsonville SC. 11 Miles from Downtown Fountain Inn. Secluded, quiet, site 150 yards from the road surrounded by trees. Natural wildlife around with good possibilities of deer sightings on occasion. ⚠️ PLEASE NOTE::: When you are on Georgia Road. GPS will tell you to turn on Mickey Thomas Drive. Do not follow that detail. If you are entering from the town of Gray Court, the campsite entrance is the next driveway AFTER Mickey Thomas drive. See last 3 photos for reference of entrance location. Feel free to email me at Rusty.satterfield@gmail.com
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Creekside Cabin at Lake Hartwell

17. Creekside Cabin at Lake Hartwell

98%
(22)
43mi from Calhoun Falls State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Martin, GA
New to HipCamp? Use this code for $10 off your stay with us: https://www.hipcamp.com/i/elisabethc3462c9 Welcome to Creekside Cabin, only 0.25mi from Lake Hartwell. Nestled in the woods, enjoy 500ft2 indoors and an additional 500ft2 of outdoor living space, strategically designed to provide unexpected spaciousness and comfort. Discover: 2 king beds, a loft bedroom with private balcony, open floor plan, stocked kitchen, & a plethora of entertainment. Ideal for nature-lovers, revel in 3 stories of decking with: a hot tub, fire pit, grill, daybed, outdoor tv, & covered porch, all surrounded by trees. EXPLORE NEARBY - 1 mi (Community Access) → Lake Hartwell - 17 mins → Tugaloo State Park - 25 mins → Lake Hartwell State Park - 34 mins → Chau Ram County Park - 35 mins → Lake Hartwell Wildlife Safari - 36 mins → Victoria Bryant State Park - 40 mins → Tallulah Gorge State Park and Waterfalls - 45 mins → Riley Moore Falls
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$120
 / night
Wildcat Outpost

19. Wildcat Outpost

99%
(92)
47mi from Calhoun Falls State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Central, SC
FREE FIREWOOD FOR LIMITED TIME: I have more split oak firewood than I know what to do with. While it lasts, campers can take as much as they need for free. The wood is piled at the site. Our homestead is home to our family, chickens, and a livestock guardian dog. We also have a small orchard and a garden. Most of our 12+ acres are wooded and our property backs up to thousands of acres of public forest land owned by Clemson University. A trail connects our backyard to the main network of hiking/mountain biking trails in Clemson Forest. For those familiar with the forest, our property is in the vicinity of Wildcat Technical, Wounded Road, and Chainbreaker trails. As private and wooded as our property is, we are only 10-15 minutes from downtown Clemson and less than 10 minutes from the small towns of Central and Six Mile. Lakes Hartwell and Keowee are also short drives. We currently offer a single campsite, which can accommodate several tents or a camper van. Our campsite features a composting toilet outhouse, and water is available from spigots at our house. Though fairly close to our house, the campsite has a very private feel due to being completely surrounded by a hardwood forest.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Leach Homestead campground

20. Leach Homestead campground

97%
(58)
47mi from Calhoun Falls State Park · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · Johnston, SC
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
100% (3)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Calhoun Falls State Park adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Broad River Retreat

99%
(95)
31mi from Calhoun Falls State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Comer, GA
Located on the beautiful Broad River, summer offers views of kayakers and tubers floating down the river, close enough to see, but far enough away to feel alone. Eagle spottings and colorful landscapes make this retreat a camper's heaven. Learn more about this land: 20 minutes from downtown Athens. A quarter mile down a winding dirt drive will open up to a beautiful scene of river and nature. Quiet solitude and you are at one with this piece of heaven. Keep your eyes open for the bald eagle. If you are agile enough, climb down the terrain to the river for an early morning bath or fish for lunch. This site is a singular rental. You will have it to yourself. You may choose to camp with friends in which there is space for an Rv and a pull behind or two small rvs. It can also be used to tent camp. There is a small shed with a full bunk on bottom and a twin on top. A table with two chairs and electric fireplace. There is in addition, a small A/C unit in the shed. It is a small space with nothing but outlets and a small refrigerator. You will need to bring all of your essentials. Pillows/Sheets/Linens/towels are not provided. The bath house is steps away. You will need towels/rags/soap/toilet paper and all essentials. It is merely a toilet, sink, and shower. There is a Weber charcoal grill available on site. Bring your essentials. You will need to bring your own firewood.. The driveway to the site is marked with the 1793 address sign on Davids Home Church rd. If you are driving N/NW on David's Home Church Rd, it is exactly 2 miles on the right from where you turned onto the road. If you are traveling E/SE on David's Home Church Rd, it is exactly 1.7 miles on the left from where you turned onto David's Home Church Rd. The gate will be closed, please close the gate back when you leave. Please take advantage of the Broad River outpost to rent kayaks/canoes/tubes. Also The Sandbar is located minutes away and they also provide rentals as well as zip lining. Royston has a grocery store and fast food.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night

The Great Escape

100%
(13)
38mi from Calhoun Falls State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Arnoldsville, GA
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 but does not have direct sewer access. We do have a spot to dump your black tank when you leave and we do allow gray tank 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. For the more adventurous type, we also have a boondocking option for those who do not need the extra amenities. This option offers tent camping in the woods or a space to park a camper or small motorhome for 1-2 nights. Please reach out first regarding this option.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$27
 / night

Lakeside RV Resort

98%
(130)
38mi from Calhoun Falls State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Hull, GA
9.3 Acres of Private Serenity! 80 Acre private lake with dock, fire pit, covered pavilion, long quiet walks through the woods. Our famous Ila Cafe is only 5 minutes away! 20 minutes to Athens Restaurant, UGA Campus and Georgia Football! And only 20 minutes to Commerce Outlet Malls and Walmart, 15 minutes to the Boutier Winery, 30 minutes to Watson Mill State Park, located directly on an 80 acre reservoir lake! Enjoy fishing, kayaking, swimming, taking long walks, hiking, or just relaxing! Beautiful Lake View Campsite! Full Hook-ups! No motorboats. 50 Amp & 30 Amp Service. You'll have access to a Fire Pit and Pavillon; a Gas/Charcoal Grill, along with a dock on an 80 Acre Fishing Lake, and 2 double Kayaks with life vests. Swimming, Hiking, Fishing, Kayaking, Roasting Marshmallows, Picnicking or just Relaxing. Pets are welcome, on leashes, portable water, picnic tables, wifi, and trash bins are available on property. Camp fires are permitted (outside of burn bans), and firewood is available for sale on site. Guests love staying with us: "My wife, 2 dogs, and I had an amazing weekend stay at Debbie's campsite. The RV site was level and all the hookups were conveniently located and worked great. Her lakefront property is beautiful and we thoroughly enjoyed walking our dogs around the property and also taking some camping chairs down to the dock to take in the sunset. The firepit can hold a massive fire and I would definitely recommend buying some firewood from Debbie as it is perfectly seasoned and burns great. We really appreciated having the gas grill/charcoal combo grill on site to cook dinners on and there is plenty of space to play some yard games (cornhole, frisbee etc). We will absolutely come back!"
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$47
 / night

Other options near Calhoun Falls State Park

The best camping in Calhoun Falls State Park, SC guide

Overview

About

Get ready to witness a beautiful love affair between rustic serenity and camping luxury. Bring a horse or boat along if you want to make use of the winding 10-mile nature trail and refreshing Lake Russell. Calhoun Falls is a simple-living paradise, and it’s South Carolina’s worst kept secret, so book early and book hard. There’s plenty to explore in this verdant, secluded paradise. The area used to be full of farms, and though the agricultural land has given way to new forest growth, old farms and homesteads can be discovered with a quick walk or horseback ride through the area. Watch the sun set behind the mountains from your perfect lakeside campsite. You’ll hate to see it go, but love to watch it leave.

Notable campgrounds

  • The Calhoun Falls campground boasts spacious sites with stunning views of Lake Russell, perfect for RV and tent camping.
  • For a more secluded experience, the walk-in tent sites offer a rustic retreat amid the park's natural beauty.
  • Enjoy the convenience of the rental boat slips in the marina, adding a nautical twist to your camping adventure.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, especially for peak seasons, as the Calhoun Falls campground is highly sought after for its scenic spots.
  • Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Keep an eye on the park's website for updates on campground renovations and re-openings to plan your stay accordingly.
  • Explore nearby camping options if your preferred dates are unavailable, ensuring you don't miss out on the Lake Russell experience.

When to go

The best time to visit Calhoun Falls State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers warm days perfect for swimming and boating, while winter provides a peaceful atmosphere. Avoid visiting during campground renovations to ensure full access to the park's facilities.

Know before you go

  • Check the park hours, which extend from 6am to 9pm during Daylight Saving Time, ensuring you plan your visit within operating times.
  • Pets are welcome in most outdoor areas, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under control at all times.
  • Stay connected with wifi available at the park office and day-use beach area, but note it's not accessible in the campgrounds.
  • Admission fees are $3 for adults, $1.50 for SC seniors, $1 for children aged 6-15, and free for those 5 and under.
  • Be aware of any seasonal closures or renovations for updates.
100%
3 ratings · 2 reviews