Best Campgrounds near Appling, GA

Camping options near Appling, Georgia center around Strom Thurmond Lake, with multiple established campgrounds including Petersburg, Mistletoe State Park, and Wildwood Park. The area features a diverse range of accommodation types from standard tent and RV sites to cabins, yurts, and glamping opportunities. Most developed campgrounds provide water and electric hookups, with many sites situated directly on the lakeshore. Mistletoe State Park Campground and Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake campground are particularly popular destinations for visitors seeking access to water recreation activities.

The region maintains year-round camping availability at several locations, though some campgrounds like Winfield and Modoc operate seasonally from spring through fall. "Almost every site has a walkable path to the water. It's pet friendly and has amenities for even the least experienced campers," noted one visitor about Petersburg campground. Reservations are typically required and can be made through recreation.gov for Corps of Engineers sites or through the Georgia State Parks reservation system. Most campgrounds feature well-maintained roads suitable for standard vehicles, though some sites may require leveling equipment for RVs. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winters remain relatively mild. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with varying strength depending on carrier and specific location.

Waterfront access represents the defining feature of camping in the Appling area, with numerous reviews highlighting the lake views and shoreline proximity. Campsites at Petersburg and Wildwood Park received consistently high ratings for their spacious layouts and privacy. A visitor commented, "This campground has magnificent views, spacious sites, picnic tables, firepits, power and water hookups, dump station, bathrooms, and groomed swimming area." Facilities typically include clean restrooms, shower buildings, and dump stations. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with deer frequently spotted near campsites, particularly at dusk. While the lake provides excellent recreational opportunities, some reviews mention increased boat noise during summer weekends and holidays. Hiking trails connect many of the campgrounds, with the Bartram Trail being a notable option for longer excursions.

Best Camping Sites Near Appling, Georgia (90)

    1. Mistletoe State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Appling, GA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-0321

    $12 - $175 / night

    "Mistletoe State Park is another great Georgia State Park."

    "We spent a couple of nights in Mistletoe State Park in Georgia while we investigated my husband's ancestry.  This park is truly beautiful."

    2. Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    31 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-9464

    $18 - $50 / night

    "There is water and electric at each site for those who are in a RV but the dump sites are pretty close by. We will definitely be back!"

    "Lakeside lot with incredible space. Dog friendly and they enjoyed being able to go for a swim right outside of the camper."

    3. Hamilton Branch State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    15 miles
    Website

    "The downside to this design is that sites on the left side of the T shape, back in with the trailers camp side facing the road, not the lake."

    "We checked in on a Thursday evening from the drive from Florida. Campsite was chosen from a map, which seemed to have an upfront water access."

    4. Winfield - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    11 Reviews
    Appling, GA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-0147

    $32 / night

    "Winfield is a compartively little-known USACE campground situated on a peninsula near the more heavily-traffic Mistletoe State Park."

    "It’s right on the lake. There is a retaining wall at the water so it’s about a 3” step to the water. We plan to bring a sep ladder next time. Beautiful place to spend your time camping."

    5. Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    12 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 333-2272

    $22 - $64 / night

    "Lots of RVs and pull behinds. Sites were well spaced. We had 15 and it was great, I would stay at the same site again. Water and electric at all sites. Access to water from majority of sites."

    "Quiet beautiful good fishing, minimal bugs, waded in the sandy edge of the lake. We will be back."

    6. Ridge Road - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    6 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-0282

    $22 - $64 / night

    "Easy walk down to the water, lovely breeze, quiet. We were close to the ADA bathhouse that was immaculate."

    "Tons of trees and most sites are on right on the lake. The water is amazingly clear."

    7. Elijah Clark State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Lincolnton, GA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 359-3458

    $20 - $170 / night

    "From the main entrance is a winding wooded road to the main store."

    "Set up well for families with children… room to ride bikes, scooters, skateboards; playground; putt putt course; trails to walk; beach areas all around the camp ground for easy access to the water."

    8. Pointes West Army Resort

    6 Reviews
    J. Strom Thurmond Lake, GA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-1057

    $7 - $25 / night

    "The only reason why I didn't give a 5 star was because we were very close to neighbors. They were all in a row so if you open your curtains others can see you. Full hookups."

    "Sites L, M, and N are all on a little peninsula that sticks out into Clarks Hill Lake, and are our personal favorites!"

    9. Wildwood County Park

    4 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    7 miles
    Website

    "This park is just a few miles away from Mistletoe and we only stayed here because we could not get a site at Mistletoe."

    "Walking to other areas of the campground was a hike of several miles. Free WiFi available. Enjoyed our stay!"

    10. Bussey Point Wilderness Area

    5 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 533-3478

    "There's no power which is perfect for camping off grid away from all the trailers. The campsites are right on the water and the view is beautiful."

    "It has a fallen tree and lots of underwater sticks right when you walk out on the lake so watch your toes! When we come back we’d probs choose site #5 to avoid the tree and all the limbs."

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Recent Reviews near Appling, GA

423 Reviews of 90 Appling Campgrounds


  • Bobbie S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Carolina Hill Mobile Home and RV Park

    Peaceful

    Traveling for my husband's work. Kimberly Clark is six minutes away. Moved in one day ago and I already know that I absolutely LOVE it here! Zero road noise, large sites, shade trees and laundry room. Robbie in the office is as sweet as can be. Met the owner this morning, very nice man. If you walk around the park four times, you have walked a mile. Will try to remember to update this review when we leave. update Still love it here and would absolutely stay here again ❤️

  • Bobbie S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Pine Acres Campground and RV Park

    Not a bad stay.

    Spent three weeks here for my husband's work. Many full time renter's. My neighbors were wonderful people. The office manager, Tammy, was absolutely amazing! There was no openings at any campground in the area and she was able to work it out for us to be able to move in. They are working on adding a lower area for more sites. Sadly, there are no trees down there. The current sites are pretty close together. I would not be able to open my awning all the way if I wanted to. This is a great spot for someone here working and needs a place. Not really a family vacation spot. It is quite busy within the park, people coming and going a lot. It's off a very busy road, noise pollution is a factor. I came to the conclusion that the owner is pretty focused on adding the new sites (makes sense, that's how you afford upgrades). That being said, fixing VERY large potholes seems like something you could easily keep up with. You are able to receive mail here. They have a bathhouse/bathrooms, laundry room and dumpsters.

  • K C.
    May. 14, 2025

    Hamburg State Park Campground

    Fantastic on the water sites

    Wonderful park and fantastic staff, there is a small general store next to the mill. There were crafts and a mill tour while we visited.

  • Penny C.
    Apr. 30, 2025

    Sanwar RV Resort

    Most Amazing Stay at Excellent Resort

    We stayed 5 nights here this past week and it was hard to go. The people in charge are just excellent and polite. The resort is immaculate and set up so very nicely. This is so good for families especially. The tavern, bingo, Saturday’s live music were all so good and fun. I even got my favorite drink - a lemon drop. 

    The pools are WONDERFUL and we , even as old, LOVED the lazy river. 

    I cannot say enough good about this place. Try it out.

  • Eric Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 26, 2025

    Pine Hill Camp

    Nice quiet place

    Not a lot of level spots around but we found a spot that worked for our 37' fifth wheel with some leveling. Were also able to position for decent solar exposure. T-mobile was pretty much useless, AT&T provided a little bit of usable signal. Had it to ourselves for 3 days and the road going past was very quiet. Speaking of the road, it's a sandy dirt road with some soft spots so pay attention. Lovely quiet place to relax or work! We would come again.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 17, 2025

    Wildwood Park Columbia County Park

    Gorgeous !!

    This camp is absolutely gorgeous and the atmosphere is so serene and peaceful. My family and friends LOVE this place!

  • Kevan  R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 15, 2025

    Calhoun Falls State Park Campground

    Great sites with lake views

    This is a SC State Park located in Calhoun Falls, SC. A fishing campground - the vast majority of campers had boats. Sites are great / not on top of each other. Quiet. SC needs to up the maintenance on the park. Playground equipment and trails need immediate work. Bathhouses need upgrading.

  • Kennon H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 15, 2025

    Aiken State Park Campground

    Storm damage is apparent

    Rv spots are nice. Primitive camping site show almost no use. RV bathrooms were older and clean. Hurricane damage is every where. Only one hiking trail is open. Keep an eye out for broken limbs on windy days. Many family’s were camping here with young kids.


Guide to Appling

The Appling, Georgia area features numerous campgrounds scattered around J. Strom Thurmond Lake, a 70,000-acre reservoir with over 1,000 miles of shoreline. Summer temperatures in the region typically exceed 90°F with high humidity, while fall camping offers more moderate conditions with temperatures in the 60-70°F range. Many of the campsites are located on peninsulas extending into the lake, providing water access and recreational opportunities throughout three seasons.

What to do

Mountain biking on Bartram Trail: The trail runs through Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake and offers excellent terrain for cyclists. "We moved to site 58 after a couple of days and it was directly on the water. Mountain bike trails in either direction just at the park entrance," noted one visitor who enjoyed the extensive trail system.

Horseback riding: Bussey Point Wilderness Area caters specifically to equestrians with specialized facilities. "Bussey Point is primarily for equestrians. The campsites have pre-installed horse hitches and plenty of room to move a horse trailer. There's a 12-mile horse trail that goes out on the peninsula," explained one camper who appreciated the horse-friendly setup.

Shoreline fishing: Many campgrounds offer direct fishing access from individual sites. At Hamilton Branch State Park Campground, "Every site is waterfront and most of them are well shaded. Good fishing and swimming. Prepare your site for ants they will get into everything if not," advised one regular visitor.

What campers like

Private shoreline access: Campers consistently praise the layout and spacing of sites along the water. "We stayed at Ridge Road Campground. This is an amazing campground. All the sites are large and well spaced. Tons of trees and most sites are right on the lake. The water is amazingly clear," shared one visitor to Ridge Road - J Strom Thurmond Lake.

Variety of water access sites: Different campgrounds offer varied water access points suitable for different activities. "Sites had water, electric, concrete table, fire ring, and lantern hook. You could pull your boat up to your waterfront campsite. They also have kayak rentals," noted a camper at Mistletoe State Park.

Wildlife viewing: Many campers report excellent wildlife watching opportunities. "Site 38 was interesting because we had about 100 whitetail deer in our back yard every night. The camp host apparently was feeding them, and he set up spot lights so that they could be watched as they ate," explained one visitor to Wildwood County Park.

What you should know

Water level fluctuations: Lake levels vary throughout the season and can impact shoreline access. "The site is right on the lake with a wide trail leading directly to the water. The water was low during our trip so the immediate shoreline was a bit squishy going through the damp clay. I'd recommend water shoes," advised a recent visitor to Hamilton Branch State Park.

Reservation systems vary: Different campgrounds require different booking processes. "Campground rates are $10 per night and reservations must be made now through recreation.gov. If you pack it on, pack it out. There is no trash pickup provided," noted a camper at Bussey Point Wilderness Area.

Varying amenities: Facilities range from primitive to full-service. "[Modoc Campground] is a federal campground on which sites are spread out. The roads are paved throughout, but the campsites are gravel. Bath houses are older but clean," reported one camper who appreciated the basic but functional facilities at Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake.

Tips for camping with families

Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "We had cabin 5 and walked to the water. Free fishing pole for kids," mentioned a visitor at Mistletoe State Park who appreciated the family-friendly offerings.

Educational opportunities: Some parks provide nature learning experiences. "The Park Host do a fantastic job with keeping this park clean with multiple bath houses and a large amount of community space. Inside the store they also have a mini library you can borrow from and next to that a nature area with a live snake and turtles," shared a camper at Mistletoe State Park.

Beach swimming access: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas. At Winfield - J Strom Thurmond Lake, "Nice beach, playground, and everything well kept. Site 74 is right between the beach and the boating dock. Very large pull thru," reported a family who enjoyed the beach facilities.

Tips from RVers

Site selection for privacy: RV campers recommend choosing sites strategically. "Access to sites are easy. Almost all are pull through. They're also pretty well spaced out for privacy and plenty of space for each site. Hook ups are well maintained as are the roads and trailer parking areas," advised an RVer at Petersburg Campground.

Leveling considerations: Some sites require preparation for larger rigs. "The roads leading here are quite comfortable for our 37' motorcoach as are the roads inside the grounds. This is a very well maintained USACOE facility. Our site (19) is quite large and very level (after the entry driveway)," explained an RVer at Ridge Road Campground.

Power options: Different campgrounds offer varied electrical service. "The 70,000 acre lake and its 1,000+ miles of shoreline provide excellent boating, water skiing, swimming, fishing, hiking and picnicking. This wooded, waterfront campground contains 80 sites with electrical hookups," noted a visitor describing Winfield Campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Appling, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Appling, GA offers a wide range of camping options, with 90 campgrounds and RV parks near Appling, GA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Appling, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Appling, GA is Mistletoe State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 66 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Appling, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Appling, GA.