Best Campgrounds near Hartwell, GA

Hartwell, Georgia provides access to several established campgrounds situated along Lake Hartwell and neighboring waterways. The area supports multiple camping styles including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins at locations like Watsadler Campground, Tugaloo State Park, and Springfield-Hartwell Lake. Most campgrounds in the region feature waterfront access, with many sites positioned directly along the shoreline. The Army Corps of Engineers manages several properties around Lake Hartwell, while both Georgia and South Carolina state park systems maintain additional camping areas within 15 miles of Hartwell.

Most campgrounds in the Hartwell area operate year-round, though some like Springfield-Hartwell Lake maintain seasonal operations from April through October. Water and electric hookups are standard at most established sites, with varying levels of amenities between locations. "Long with plenty of space for 37' Trailer & two cars in drive. Concrete parking pad and for picnic table and fire pit. Lake access but has stone riprap at this site," noted one visitor about Watsadler Campground. Cell service quality varies by carrier and specific location, with some visitors reporting limited connectivity at certain campgrounds. Reservation systems are in place for most developed campgrounds, and booking ahead is recommended during summer weekends and holidays.

Lakefront camping represents the primary draw for visitors to the Hartwell region. Water activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and paddling are accessible directly from many campsites. Campers consistently rate waterfront sites highest in reviews, particularly those offering both shade and direct lake access. According to one visitor at Sadlers Creek State Park, "Had an awesome time. Great view of the lake and nice big campsite." Campground layouts vary significantly, with some offering spacious, private sites while others feature more compact arrangements. Proximity to town conveniences is another factor mentioned in visitor feedback, with several campgrounds positioned within short driving distance to Hartwell for supplies, restaurants, and other amenities. Bathhouse facilities and campground maintenance standards receive mixed reviews, with newer or recently renovated facilities generally earning higher ratings.

Best Camping Sites Near Hartwell, Georgia (174)

    1. Tugaloo State Park Campground

    41 Reviews
    Fair Play, SC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 356-4362

    $27 - $265 / night

    "Georgia state park. On lake Hartwell. Nice sites. Nice bath houses. Small store in office. Yurts are fun! Quiet."

    "On the Georgia side Tugaloo State Park is Located on Lake Hartwell on the Georgia/South Carolina state line.  "

    2. Sadlers Creek State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Hartwell, GA
    8 miles
    Website

    "Awesome views over lake Hartwell. Nice sized sites, could be a little more level. Needed to slightly block up rear of out class A to get level."

    "The Family and I are new to camping, we came here because of a group event at pavilion 1&2 the office attendants were nice and helpful, our site (14) was amazing with great view of lake Hartwell and"

    3. Springfield - Hartwell Lake

    16 Reviews
    Hartwell, GA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 893-0678

    $38 - $76 / night

    "Springfield Campground is one of Hartwell’s most popular camping destinations consisting of 60 acres of primarily Virginia pine and some mixed hardwoods."

    "Most sites are a stones throw away from the lake. The view Lake Hartwell is Beautiful. There is no hook ups for sewer. But there is a dump station. We will come back again to stay a little longer."

    4. Lake Hartwell State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Fair Play, SC
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 972-3352

    "We stayed at Lake Hartwell State park in stie 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. "

    "Lake Hartwell State Park was a welcome relief after staying at an overcrowded RV resort. There was more privacy and definitely more shade."

    5. Thousand Trails Carolina Landing

    15 Reviews
    Fair Play, SC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "I didn't really sleep well because it was 1. cold and 2. it is close to the highway so we could hear cars and trucks driving by at night. Maybe we just picked the wrong campsite."

    "Access to the water at the park but didn't see a boat launch."

    6. Watsadler

    8 Reviews
    Hartwell, GA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 893-0678

    $38 - $76 / night

    "Long with plenty of space for 37' Trailer & two cars in drive. Concrete parking pad and for.pinic table and fire pit. Lake access but has stone riprap at this site so no shore to land boat."

    "Lots of walking trails. Beautiful lake views. Unlike other COE campgrounds in the area, this one is open year round. The entry and exit can be kind of tight getting in or out with trailer."

    7. Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell

    29 Reviews
    Clemson, SC
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 893-0678

    $36 - $76 / night

    "Most, but not all, sites have lake views.  During the time of our visit, only one area was open for camping (sites 25-58).  "

    "Well maintained campground with most sites situated within easy access to Lake Hartwell. A short drive to Clemson via country roads."

    8. Victoria Bryant State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Royston, GA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 245-6270

    $34 / night

    "Victoria Bryant is hidden on Hwy 327, near Royston and, although a small campground, almost EVERY SITE IS PERFECT!"

    "I started looking to see if there was an RV park nearby and found Victoria Bryant State Park just 10 miles away.  We called and there were vacancies.  We GPS’d our way over, and I."

    9. Hartwell Lakeside KOA Holiday

    5 Reviews
    Hartwell, GA
    2 miles
    Website

    "The site we had was right next to the bank of the lake....we could have fished from inside our tent. It was nice and quiet."

    "That didn’t take away from this campgrounds beauty. It appears that this was a former state park but has now been bought by KOA. As far as Holiday KOAs are concerned, this one is up there."

    10. Coneross Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Townville, SC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 893-0678

    $26 - $76 / night

    "Can’t be the waterfront sites on Lake Hartwell. Check out more details and photos on the link. https://imaginecamper.com/2018/07/02/coneross-campground/"

    "Lots of room for walking. Beautiful and peaceful trees on the lake."

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Recent Reviews near Hartwell, GA

955 Reviews of 174 Hartwell Campgrounds


  • paul Z.
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sadlers Creek State Park Campground

    Nice lake campground

    Awesome views over lake Hartwell. Nice sized sites, could be a little more level. Needed to slightly block up rear of out class A to get level. Stairs down to the water right next to our site so easy access to our canoe. We will camp here again. 50A power and water at site. Dump station near the exit. ATT phones worked well. Greenville TV stations OTA easily received. Awesome sunrises and sunsets

  • paul Z.
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground

    Small and nice, Great place for quiet

    Large sites in a wooded area. Plenty of room with pull through and back in sites. Older campground but serene with great hiking trails and awesome scenery. We live very close to this park yet this was the first time camping here. This was the trial run for our latest rig so basically a shakedown cruise. The campsite was fairly level and with forest off the door side of the Camper. Only 30 A power here so we had to watch what we were running electrically. They did have 2 30A outlets but at this time we did not have the double 30 to 50 amp adapter. We will be staying here again whenever we want a quick weekend getaway.

  • Ethan H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Tugaloo State Park Campground

    Extremely crowded

    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. Lots of vehicle/ golf cart/ sxs traffic throughout grounds and past our campsite at all hours. Only a few campsites offer a little bit of privacy, most have none. Lots of pictures that show waterfront property can be deceiving. Bathrooms were big and very clean, and all staff were friendly.

  • Jacquelyn I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Chattooga River Lodge and Campground

    Connect with nature

    This was my first stop traveling and my converted short bus. I have been here before so I felt super comfortable being here. But I have never can’t. I am at campsite six which is perfect for a smaller rig or take camping. It’s right along the creek and very private with a short walk to the bathhouse. Through a fun trail you can make it to the lodge. This campground is surrounded by many places to hike and scenic waterfalls. It’s a must stay. The owners Mat and Teresa are amazing.

  • Casey W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Keowee-Toxaway State Park

    Great spot!

    The only reason I dinged it from five stars is because of the road noise. Other than that this place is beautiful! Great hike to a beautiful lake! Simple amenities. Great drive up tent spots surrounded by trees. Nobody else was here during the week so I had the place to myself! The rangers were incredibly helpful and friendly! I will be back!

  • Zoey W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    Great campsite, you guys are pansies though

    great spot, can see the stars super clearly and its pretty much just open woodland once youre there.

    you dont need 4 wheel drive or a truck like some of these people are saying, i did it fine in my honda civic, just dont have anything with worse clearance than that, and be ready to get some branch scratches which is kinda expected for wood roads

  • madison F.
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Golden Grove Farm and Brew

    HIPPIES AND HOORAHS

    arrived around 2 - had live music at 7 so went to get drinks & dinner. had the MOST incredible time. EVERY single person - staff & locals - were the friendliest, most welcoming and inviting people we have ever met. it was such a fun night. food & drinks are also amazing. if you’re looking for a fun night out but also need a place to stay - COME HERE!!! will definitely be coming back if we’re in SC

    such a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere

  • Cassondra P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2025

    River Falls at the Gorge

    Not a $96 a night Campground

    We have traveled all across the country and are willing to pay for premium sites when we get our moneys worth with site and campground. This campground feels like it was nice at one time but really starting to show its age and wear. Our site was beautiful on River but our sewer hook up was not where we could access it so only had water/electric. Staff was not very friendly, I had asked about moving and they weren’t having it. The laundry room only had 2 working machines. The pool was cloudy and not very clean. The showers I could make eye contact with the neighbor.

    If this was a 40-50 a night campground I would have different expectations.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Springfield - Hartwell Lake

    Gorgeous view

    I believe every site is lake front. The view of the lake is amazing and perfect. Some sites have little beaches for access to the water. Others have rocks if you want to make your way down those. Mine had rocks covered with wire thats been cut or broken so wasn’t taking my chances there. This place is huge! There is no sewer at sites but water and electric up to 50amp


Guide to Hartwell

Camping near Hartwell, Georgia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Nice trails with beautiful scenery," while another noted, "The hike to the base of the Gorge is strenuous with LOTS of stair steps back up but if you can do it certainly worth it."
  • Fishing: At Mistletoe State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing right from the waterfront sites. A camper shared, "The fishing is AMAZING! 20 palm-sized shell cracker on the first day!"
  • Water Activities: Devils Fork State Park Campground is perfect for boating and swimming. One reviewer said, "The lake was beautiful! So many fun things to explore with it being so big and all by boat."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground noted, "The bathrooms were kept clean and were in better conditions than other state parks we’ve visited."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. One reviewer at Unicoi State Park & Lodge said, "The campground staff was friendly and helpful."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful landscapes. A visitor at Tugaloo State Park Campground remarked, "The campground had very clean facilities, however our nearest bathhouse didn't have hot water, but they were waiting for a new water heater."

What you should know

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are closer together than others. A camper at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are a little closer to each other than what I'm used to."
  • Limited Cell Service: If you need to stay connected, check the cell service availability. A visitor at Table Rock State Park Campground noted, "Cell service is one of the main reasons you'd want to choose White Oaks instead of the main campground."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Oconee State Park Campground advised, "It's crowded. Reserve way in advance."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A parent at Hamilton Branch State Park Campground said, "The lake was beautiful, staff was friendly, sites were nice and spacious."
  • Plan for Nature: Prepare for wildlife encounters. One family at Fort Yargo State Park Campground enjoyed seeing "the many animals roaming through the woods."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along items like water shoes for lake activities. A camper at Hamilton Branch State Park Campground suggested, "I’d recommend water shoes."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground warned, "A bigger RV may not be able to make the trip."
  • Road Conditions: Be aware of the roads leading to the campgrounds. One camper at Tugaloo State Park Campground advised, "The roads are narrow for larger rigs but look to be well maintained."
  • Dump Station Availability: Know where the dump stations are located. A visitor at Mistletoe State Park Campground mentioned, "Dump station is on the way out."

Camping near Hartwell, Georgia, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With beautiful parks and plenty of activities, it's a great spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Hartwell, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Hartwell, GA offers a wide range of camping options, with 174 campgrounds and RV parks near Hartwell, GA and 9 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Hartwell, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hartwell, GA is Tugaloo State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 41 reviews.

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Hartwell, GA.