Best Campgrounds near Augusta, GA

Camping near Augusta, Georgia centers around Lake Strom Thurmond (also called Clarks Hill Lake), with a mix of state parks and Army Corps of Engineers sites offering lakeside camping experiences. Mistletoe State Park, located about 30 minutes northwest of Augusta in Appling, serves as a popular destination with both RV and tent camping options, including secluded walk-in sites. Petersburg Campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, provides spacious waterfront sites with views of the lake. Additional options include Heritage RV Park in Augusta for travelers seeking convenient interstate access, and Hamilton Branch State Park just across the South Carolina border for those wanting more privacy and direct lake access.

Most campgrounds in the Augusta area are accessible via paved roads, with no four-wheel drive required. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer months and holiday weekends when lakeside sites fill quickly. The camping season extends year-round at many locations, though some Corps of Engineers sites like Ridge Road and Modoc operate seasonally from April through September. Winter temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing, with one camper reporting 27°F overnight temperatures in January. Summer brings hot, humid conditions typical of the Southeast. Cell service varies by location, with Hamilton Branch State Park noted for limited connectivity.

Water recreation dominates the camping experience around Augusta, with fishing, boating, and swimming as primary activities. According to reviews, lake levels can fluctuate seasonally, affecting water access at some sites. One visitor at Mistletoe State Park noted, "When we were there the lake was very low, so the water activity was limited." Tent campers seeking quiet should consider sites away from boat ramps, as one camper advised: "If you're a tent camper looking to enjoy quiet time by the water, avoid the loop with the boat ramp." RV campers will find full hookup options at several parks, while those seeking more seclusion can opt for walk-in tent sites on peninsulas jutting into the lake, offering what one reviewer called "waterfront seclusion" with "beautiful" sunset views.

Best Camping Sites Near Augusta, Georgia (88)

    1. Mistletoe State Park Campground

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

    $12 - $175 / night

    "Mistletoe State Park is just outside of Augusta, GA. It’s on Lake Strom Thurmond, which is good for fishing and boating. The campground was nice, with level sites, and clean showers and bathrooms."

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

    2. Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    31 Reviews
    Modoc, GA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-9464

    $18 - $50 / night

    "Most have access to water and if the lake level is good, there is usually some beach area at most sites where you can swim, tie off a boat."

    "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!"

    3. Heritage RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Woodland, GA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 863-3333

    "The park is close to I-20 and I-520 so there is easy on/off and it is a great place for an overnight if you are just traveling thru."

    "Right off the interstate with lots of stores nearby including Walmart and Camping world."

    4. Hamilton Branch State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    26 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."

    5. Back to Nature Garden Center

    1 Review
    Augusta, GA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 833-5073

    $15 / night

    6. Leitner Lake Recreation Complex

    3 Reviews
    Grovetown, GA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 791-3317

    $7 - $25 / night

    "Plenty of walk area for dog walks. No playground or frills but we personally don’t need those things and really enjoyed this campground."

    "Decent campground on a small lake (no boating allowed). Keep in mind this campground is on the US Army's Ft. Gordon installation."

    7. Diamond Lakes Regional Park Campground

    1 Review
    Augusta, GA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 796-5025

    $30 / night

    8. Carolina Hill Mobile Home and RV Park

    1 Review
    Beech Island, SC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 265-1300

    "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 ❤️"

    9. Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    12 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    24 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."

    10. Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground

    5 Reviews
    Jackson, GA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (762) 333-2901

    "The location was quiet and beautiful, surrounded by woods and fields."

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Recent Reviews near Augusta, GA

408 Reviews of 88 Augusta Campgrounds


  • Joel R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Barnyard RV Park

    No animals at the Barnyard.

    This is a nice, clean, open campground and RV park. Sites are big enough for most RVs. Mostly level, Some have cement pads. 30/50 amp, full hookups. Some Shade. Showers and bathrooms were clean and very nice. Good water pressure. My wife in was disappointed there were no animals.

  • Bobbie S.
    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.
    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.

  • G F.
    Jun. 13, 2025

    Magnolia Springs State Park Campground

    Cute, well maintained

    Campground very well kept. Friendly staff. Not as small as pictures suggest. Sites nicely spread around so while there’s no vegetation in between, there’s privacy. Historic site and the spring are cute. Big gators. Only one site has water views, 16.

  • 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!


Guide to Augusta

Camping near Augusta, Georgia, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing in the local lakes. One visitor at Mistletoe State Park Campground said, "The fishing is AMAZING! 20 palm-sized shell cracker on the first day!" This park is known for its waterfront sites, making it a great choice for anglers.
  • Kayaking: If you love paddling, check out Hamilton Branch State Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "The site is right on the lake with a wide trail leading directly to the water," making it easy to launch your kayak.
  • Hiking: For those who enjoy hiking, Elijah Clark State Park Campground offers trails with beautiful views. One camper noted, "We kayaked and hiked. We camp here often. It is clean and everyone was friendly."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Hamburg State Park Campground said, "New clean bath facilities. Almost all sites are in the water with half shaded. Highly recommend!"
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Many campers enjoy the tranquility of the parks. One reviewer at Calhoun Falls State Park Campground mentioned, "We are always impressed with the spacious sites, lake access, quiet relaxing atmosphere."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Magnolia Springs State Park Campground offer fun for families. A camper shared, "There were playgrounds for kids, plus mini golf and kayak rentals."

What you should know

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake noted, "Some sites are better than others. But, wouldn’t complain about any if just staying a few nights."
  • Limited Amenities: Some parks, like A. H. Stephens State Park Campground, may not have nearby stores. A camper advised, "There is NOTHING nearby so make sure you take your food for the stay."
  • Wildlife Caution: Campers should be aware of local wildlife. One visitor at George L Smith II State Park Campground mentioned, "There were no bugs so close to a swamp!"

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and rental options. A family at Lake Greenwood State Park Campground enjoyed, "The lake was beautiful and clear, the grounds and trails on the park were quaint and well kept."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring food and snacks, as some parks are remote. A camper at Magnolia Springs State Park Campground noted, "There were a few small restaurants and stores within a 10-15 minute drive."
  • Safety First: Always supervise children near water. A visitor at Calhoun Falls State Park Campground mentioned, "There was a sandy area to the lake."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Hamilton Branch State Park Campground said, "The back-in site was very large with lake views while keeping us in mostly shade."
  • Use Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups. A camper at George L Smith II State Park Campground noted, "We had a large, level, pull-thru site with water and 50 amp service."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Check for dump stations before you go. A visitor at Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake mentioned, "Dependable small dump station easily accessible as well."

Camping near Augusta, Georgia, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Enjoy the great outdoors and make some unforgettable memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there lakeside camping options near Augusta, GA?

Augusta is surrounded by excellent lakeside camping opportunities. Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake offers over 90 sites with water and electric hookups, with many sites providing direct lake access and beach areas for swimming. Hawe Creek - J Strom Thurmond Lake is another fantastic option where every site is waterfront. These Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds feature boat launches, fishing piers, and beautiful water views. Within a short drive, Hickory Knob State Park also provides lakeside camping with scenic views of Thurmond Lake, perfect for water enthusiasts.

What campgrounds are available in Augusta, GA?

Augusta offers several quality camping options in the surrounding area. Mistletoe State Park Campground is one of the most popular choices, located just outside the city on Lake Strom Thurmond with level sites, clean facilities, and both RV and tent camping options. For those seeking an in-town option, Heritage RV Park provides convenient access to Augusta's attractions with easy interstate access from both I-20 and I-520. Additional options include Diamond Lakes Regional Park Campground for a local public camping experience and several Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds around Thurmond Lake within a short drive of the city.

Can I find fishing opportunities while camping in Augusta?

Augusta offers excellent fishing opportunities for campers. Magnolia Springs State Park Campground provides fishing access in its spring-fed waters and is known for good catches. Wildwood County Park is another popular option for anglers visiting the area. Lake Strom Thurmond (Clarks Hill Reservoir) is the primary fishing destination in the region, with multiple access points from various campgrounds. Anglers can expect to catch bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. Many campgrounds around Augusta feature fishing piers, boat launches, and shoreline access, making it easy to combine camping with productive fishing adventures.

Are there private campgrounds available in Augusta for more amenities?

Augusta offers several private campgrounds with enhanced amenities for those seeking more comforts. Joe's RVPark provides a convenient private option with typical RV park amenities. Carolina Hill Mobile Home and RV Park near Jackson and Made in the Shade RV Park near Waynesboro are additional private options within a short drive of Augusta, offering full hookups and big-rig friendly sites. These private campgrounds typically feature amenities like WiFi, laundry facilities, full hookups, and are generally open year-round. While they may lack the natural setting of state parks, they provide convenient bases for exploring Augusta's attractions.