Bussey Point Wilderness Area provides a genuine primitive camping experience on Clark Hill Lake with designated equestrian campsites. The area includes campsites with basic amenities such as picnic tables and fire pits, with only an open pit latrine and well water available. The 12-mile horse trail extends onto a peninsula, offering direct water access for horses. Camping rates are $10 per night with reservations required through recreation.gov.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Bussey Point's 12-mile trail system offers extensive riding through woodland areas along the peninsula. "This is my favorite spot for taking it in, and getting back to nature. Bussey Point is a no frills campground. If you are looking for luxurious amenities, and a pristine restroom facility, this is not the place for you. Bussey Point is primitive camping at it's best. Btw, watch out for the horse poop!" reports Big D. at Bussey Point Wilderness Area.
Water recreation activities: Wildwood County Park offers multiple water-based recreation options. "Awesome beach area, great playground for kids. Kayak & paddleboard rentals. Decent pricing for campsites," notes David H. The park features swimming areas with designated beaches and boat ramp access for those bringing their own watercraft.
Historical exploration: Visit the museum at A.H. Stephens State Park to learn about Civil War history. "We did the A. H. Stephens museum tour and that was very nicely done. We did a day trip to Greensboro and walked the shops and went to Oconee Brewery," shares Cathy C. The park preserves the home of the Vice President of the Confederacy and features historical artifacts.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many sites at Coleman Lake Campground offer direct water access. "There is a free boat ramp into Coleman Lake for registered guests," notes Clarence B. Similarly, Claire M. points out about Bussey Point: "Over all a great campground/site. We stayed at site #4. Plenty of room to spread out! It has a fallen tree and lots of underwater sticks right when you walk out on the lake so watch your toes!"
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting around these horse campgrounds near Grovetown, Georgia provides abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Josh R. mentions about Bussey Point: "Clean camp sites. Abundance of wildlife. The out houses & vault toilets are in good shape. This park is always quiet and offers plenty of privacy."
Spacious sites: A. H. Stephens State Park Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "We really like campgrounds that have a lot of room, space between each site and easy sites to get in to. AH Stephen's fits that bill! Comfort station was very clean, hosts available if needed and the campground wasn't overly packed with campers on top of each other," reports Debbie K.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds in the Grovetown area now require advance bookings. Linda A. notes: "Campground rates are $10 per night and reservations must be made now through recreation.gov. All sites are waterfront On Clark Hill Lake(Strom Thurmond Lake). If you pack it on, pack it out. There is no trash pickup provided."
Amenity limitations: Primitive camping options have limited facilities. Cody S. explains: "The campsites have a picnic table and a fire pit. The campground has a well for water and an open pit latrine. There's no power which is perfect for camping off grid away from all the trailers."
Seasonal considerations: Plum Branch RV Park offers a quieter alternative during busy periods. "This campground is very quiet and right near the water. I enjoyed it and would stay again," notes robins662. Sites with utilities are available for those wanting more comfort while remaining close to equestrian trails.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Families appreciate the swimming areas at several parks. "I've stayed at this camp ground 3 times they have lots of sites right on the water many with your very own mini beach an you can bring your boat up to as well," shares Tanya S. about Wildwood County Park.
Educational opportunities: The historical components at parks near Grovetown provide learning experiences. Mary G. recalls: "We stopped here for one night in December, passing through. The park had a beautiful Christmas light display with hot chocolate and a Christmas movie playing on a big screen. The park staff were so friendly."
Facility considerations: When camping with children, bathhouse access matters. Elizabeth M. found A.H. Stephens worked well: "Site 9 (handicapped site) was perfect for the grandparents as there was a short paved walkway straight to the bath house. Both sites were nicely graveled and level."
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: For RV camping at equestrian campgrounds near Grovetown, choosing the right site matters. Dan F. advises about Wildwood: "We stayed on two sites as nothing was available for our entire duration. So, we started on site 38 and then moved to 58 after a couple of days. Site 38 was large enough and had big, flat, surface for the picnic table, fire ring, camper, and truck."
Utility considerations: RVers should note varying hookup options. Kevin H. cautions at In The Pines RV Park: "Still being upgraded, so newish pad was still soft but pretty level. Sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches. Electric posts are new but have a meter right below plugs, so surge suppressor gets to hang sideways."
Off-grid preparation: For those staying at Bussey Point without hookups, Frankie M. advises about equestrian sites: "We stayed at the esquirion site which was large and had stables. Beautiful place and clean... Kind of tight and up hill a little getting in and out." RVers should plan for limited or no water and electric hookups at primitive sites.
Guide
