Camping opportunities near Lavonia range from fully equipped state parks to more primitive sites situated along the 56,000-acre Lake Hartwell. Water levels at these lake-based campgrounds fluctuate seasonally, with summer bringing higher water levels and winter exposing additional shoreline. Summer temperatures in this area typically reach 85-95°F, while winter temperatures can drop to freezing, affecting camping comfort at higher elevations.
What to do
Beach activities at Coneross Park: This campground features multiple beach areas with playgrounds. "The beaches are very nice with playgrounds on them. Water was clear to 7' depth," notes Robert W. about Coneross Park Campground. The sandy shoreline makes it easy to launch watercraft directly from the beach areas.
Kayaking from your campsite: Many sites allow direct water access for paddling. At Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell, campers enjoy sites with water access. "We love staying here for a birthday weekend. Dog friendly, right on the water, clean restrooms. We stayed at a primitive site and will definitely be back," shares Sydney W.
Hiking the Sassafras Loop: Trail access directly from the campground lets you explore shoreline views. "I did the Sassafras Loop trail which follows the lake shore most of time and great views the rest. Our dogs loved all the space," mentions Liz H. The trail features moderate terrain with several lake overlooks.
Creek swimming at rock slides: Natural water features near Victoria Bryant State Park provide alternatives to lake swimming. "Slippery rock was a lot of fun to take the dogs and wade in the cool clean water," explains Courtney M. These creek areas tend to be less crowded than main beaches during peak season.
What campers like
Lake access directly from sites: Most campgrounds feature waterfront sites with easy lake entry. "Most campsites have views of the lake and access directly to the stoney beaches. Lots of mature trees make shade an easily accessible feature," explains Maggie G. about Tugaloo State Park Campground.
Spacious, well-separated campsites: Many campgrounds offer privacy between sites. At Victoria Bryant State Park, "All the campsites we set up to look out into the woods not another camper. Very clean and well maintained," says Courtney M. Sites typically include fire rings positioned for lake views.
Tent camping platforms: Some campgrounds feature elevated tent platforms with electrical outlets. "All of the tent sites are sheltered platforms, with electricity, potable water and an overhead light. Rain or shine, you can have a good time (and stay dry)," explains Everette G. about Victoria Bryant State Park Campground.
Winter stargazing: Clear winter nights offer exceptional star viewing opportunities. "Lots of stars at night. Very clean and well kept park," reports Liz H. Light pollution is minimal at most campgrounds, especially at sites farther from the main camping loops.
What you should know
Limited shower facilities: Not all campgrounds offer shower facilities. At Oconee Point, "There are three bathhouses with showers around the campground and one bathroom with flush toilets but no showers," notes Windell S. Check facility details when booking.
Summer crowds and noise: Some campgrounds become busy during peak season. "This campground was not fully booked, yet most campsites were maxed out with people in each one so it felt extremely busy with lots of partying-like noise," reports Ethan H. Weekdays typically offer quieter conditions than weekends.
Fire ant issues: Some tent sites experience fire ant problems during warmer months. "Our only complaint was the entire campsite was one large fire ant hill! We had to travel to the local dollar general to get ant spray to help with the infestation," warns Melissa R. Bringing ant prevention supplies is recommended.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "AT&T was minimal, T-Mobile was minimal," reports Laura H. about Carolina Landing. Sites on higher elevations typically receive better signal than those in coves or surrounded by dense trees.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with swimming beaches: Some campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with gradual entry. "Site 98 which was a lovely lakeside site. The sites on either side (96, 99) all shared a path to a small beach with lake access," explains Kim S. about Lake Hartwell State Park Campground.
Bring bikes for paved roads: Several campgrounds feature bike-friendly loops. "The paved roads make for fun bike riding," notes Catherine O. Most campground roads have limited traffic, creating safe cycling areas for children.
Check playground locations: Playground availability varies by campground. "We were across from a comfort station, a really nice pavilion and play area. Lots of families were coming in for the weekend," shares Benita P. Some campgrounds feature multiple play areas spread throughout different camping loops.
Pack extra bug prevention: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water. "I would suggest brining bug spray too- the mosquitoes are always annoying!" warns Ashley W. Evening activities typically require more aggressive bug protection than daytime ones.
Tips from RVers
Navigate narrow campground roads carefully: Several campgrounds have challenging access for larger rigs. "This is one of my least favorite State Parks. Not big rig friendly. I have a 43ft 5th Wheel and it was very tight navigating through the park," advises 5Dudes about Tugaloo State Park.
Level sites can be limited: Some campgrounds feature sloping sites requiring leveling blocks. "Our site- A5- was super unlevel. I felt unsafe with our fifth wheel's two left tires up in the air after auto-leveling," cautions Becky P. about Thousand Trails Carolina Landing.
Limited sewer hookups: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Lavonia lack full hookups. "The only reason for not having 5 stars for us is the lack of sewer hookup, but it's not that uncommon with state parks," mentions Tiffany D. Most campgrounds provide dump stations and some offer gray water disposal areas.
Reserve waterfront sites early: Premium lakefront sites book quickly during peak seasons. "My wife and I decided to make a last minute trip to Tugaloo State Park this past weekend. The sites were large and spacious. We were in site #8 right on the lake," shares Kevin A. Weekend reservations often require booking 3-6 months in advance.
