Hartwell is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Hartwell is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Hartwell. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
This recreation area is part of Hartwell Lake
Twin Lakes Recreation Area is a 152-acre site consisting of a dense overstory of pines and mixed hardwoods. The site presently offers camping and a separate day use and boat launching area. Day use and camping facilities are separated to prevent user conflicts. The area is moderate to gently sloping with the northernmost campsites being located on the steepest terrain. Campgrounds facilities presently include a gatehouse/entrance, 2 Park Attendant campsites, 102 public campsites, 1 picnic shelter, 5 comfort stations with showers, 2 dump stations, 5 playgrounds, 1 designated swim area/beach, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. Day Use facilities presently include a new gatehouse/entrance installed in 2017, 1 volunteer host campsite, 27 picnic sites, 2 standard picnic shelters with water and electric service, 1 two lane boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, 1 playground, 2 designated swim areas/beaches, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. The campground experiences very high occupancy rates throughout the year and is Hartwells highest producer of camping revenue.
Boating and water sports top the list of popular activities. A boat ramp is provided for easy lake access. With multiple trails snaking throughout the shoreline area, hiking and biking are also popular pastimes.
Hartwell Lake is a man-made lake bordering Georgia and South Carolina on the Savannah, Tugaloo and Seneca Rivers. The dam and lake area boasts 8 campgrounds and 11 day-use facilities that are operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The Hartwell Project was originally authorized for hydro-power, flood control, and navigation. Later, recreation, water quality, water supply and fish and wildlife management were added. Surrounding vegetation allows for plenty of shade, and the 962 miles of shoreline provide numerous swimming beaches, picnic areas and boat ramps.
Twin Lakes is located just five miles from Clemson, South Carolina and Clemson University, offering additional tourism opportunities, along with grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.
$30 / night
Tallulah Gorge State Park is designated one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia and is a great place for camping near Atlanta. Tallulah Gorge is a 2-mile-long, 1000-foot-deep canyon of metamorphic rock, where the Tallulah River tumbles over six dramatic waterfalls. This unique ecosystem is also the home to several endangered plant species, including the persistent trillium. These natural features have drawn visitors to the gorge since the early 1800s, and with the construction of the Tallulah Falls Railway in 1882, it became Georgia’s first official tourist attraction. Now the gorge is a hotspot for outdoor activity, ranging from hiking, fishing and swimming, to more adventurous pursuits, such as rock climbing and whitewater paddling.
The best way to explore Tallulah Gorge is to camp at Tallulah Gorge State Park. Located 100 miles northeast of Atlanta, this 2700-acre park provides 50 tent and RV sites (two are ADA-accessible) on the rim of the raging river gorge. The park also has one group site, and three hike-in backcountry sites. Campsites in the park are fairly compact and close together, so don’t expect a lot of seclusion. Campground amenities include flush toilets, showers, laundry facilities and a dump station. There are also two playgrounds for the kids, picnic areas, an interpretive center, and access to a sandy beach on Tallulah Falls Lake.
The main draw to Tallulah Gorge is hiking down to Sliding Rock at the bottom of the gorge. The park only issues 100 permits per day for this hike in order to minimize impact and maintain the canyon’s natural character. These permits are given on a first-come, first-serve basis, and cannot be reserved in advance—so get yours early! Without a permit, there are many more trails to hike along the rim of the gorge, with each offering stunning viewpoints. Don’t miss the suspension bridge on the Hurricane Falls Trail, which provides a spectacular river view from 80 feet directly above the churning waterfall.
FUN FACT: Tallulah Gorge was used as a filming location for Marvel’s Infinity War. Eagle-eyed fans may recognize Hurricane Falls in the final battle in Wakanda.
This recreation area is part of Hartwell Lake
This recreation area is part of Richard B. Russell Lake
Springfield Campground is one of Hartwells most popular camping destinations consisting of 60 acres of primarily Virginia pine and some mixed hardwoods. The area presently offers 1 gatehouse/entrance, 2 park attendant campsites, 79 public campsites with full water and electric hookups, 6 comfort stations (4 with showers), 1 dump station, 1 boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 3 playgrounds, 1 designated swim area/beach, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout.
Fishing is one of the most popular activities at the lake. Sought-after species include largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish, striped bass and hybrid bass. The lake appeals to boaters of all kinds, whether their specialty is canoeing, sailing or motor boating. Coves and areas of quiet water provide water skiers with excellent surfaces. Swimmers will find sand beaches and designated swim areas along the shoreline.
Hartwell Lake is a man-made lake bordering Georgia and South Carolina on the Savannah, Tugaloo and Seneca Rivers. The dam and lake area boasts 8 campgrounds and 11 day-use facilities that are operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The Hartwell Project was originally authorized for hydro-power, flood control, and navigation. Later, recreation, water quality, water supply and fish and wildlife management were added. Surrounding vegetation allows for plenty of shade, and the 962 miles of shoreline provide numerous swimming beaches, picnic areas and boat ramps.
The campground is a short drive away from Clemson, South Carolina and Clemson University, offering additional tourism opportunities, along with grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.
$32 / night
This recreation area is part of Hartwell Lake
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, among thousand-year-old oak trees, Carolina Landing RV Camping is conveniently located near Atlanta, GA and Charlotte, NC. This Lake Hartwell RV campground is open year round and enjoys nearby mountain destinations. Our Thousand Trails RV park is located on the third most visited reservoir east of the Mississippi River. Lake Hartwell has warm breezes great for sailing or recreational boating. Several marinas near Carolina Landing RV Camping offer boat rental, or you can launch your own at the nearby Durham Ramp for free. South Carolina was made for vacationing with nearly 400 golf courses, and festivals every weekend. Experience true southern hospitality at a Lake Hartwell RV resort. Enjoy Appalachian foothills at a Lake Hartwell RV campground Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Carolina Landing RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
$30 / night
After hours of scrolling through nature photos and majestic mountains, the urge to get out and explore is hard to ignore. We applaud the explorers and adventurers of the world who brave the treacherous elements, as well as the sweet photos that come as a result. However, for many the ideal of a fun weekend away consists less of roughing it, and more relaxing on a beach or in a warm cabin. If you’re in the latter of these groups, you’re going to love Oconee State Park.
Oconee is the idealistic place for families and friends looking for a nostalgic getaway complete with rustic charm and character. Dotted throughout the park are rustic, Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Cabins available for nightly and weekly rental. Meanwhile, a small, glassy lake lazily invites campers to disrupt its reflection with the canoes and kayaks located on shore.
The Greenville region is known for 25+ waterfalls found throughout. Closer in, the 1,100+ acre state park hosts a number of wooded nature trails snake throughout. It also serves as the trailhead for South Carolina’s 77 miles Foothills Trail. Friends and families visiting can enjoy the local wildlife, as well as the regional flora and fauna which proudly thrive in abundance.
In the summer Lake Oconee comes alive, creating the backdrop for unforgettable family vacations. Festivities begin in June, including Square Dancing, mini golf, pedal boating competitions, and so much more. However the Winter Months are just as enjoyable if you don’t mind getting cozy in a warm cabin, sipping some coco, and reading a good book. The rangers here are known for their hospitality, and are knowledgeable on the area. Stop in their lodge for a small convenience store, firewood, and great conversations.
Oconee offers all the benefits of a mountain resort without the upscale pricing. There are 140+ sites available for rent, starting at just $21/night. Cabins and lodging is available but pricing is dependent on group sizes and room choice, so be sure plan out your trip in advance before coming.
Twin Lakes Recreation Area is a 152-acre site consisting of a dense overstory of pines and mixed hardwoods. The site presently offers camping and a separate day use and boat launching area. Day use and camping facilities are separated to prevent user conflicts. The area is moderate to gently sloping with the northernmost campsites being located on the steepest terrain. Campgrounds facilities presently include a gatehouse/entrance, 2 Park Attendant campsites, 102 public campsites, 1 picnic shelter, 5 comfort stations with showers, 2 dump stations, 5 playgrounds, 1 designated swim area/beach, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. Day Use facilities presently include a new gatehouse/entrance installed in 2017, 1 volunteer host campsite, 27 picnic sites, 2 standard picnic shelters with water and electric service, 1 two lane boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, 1 playground, 2 designated swim areas/beaches, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. The campground experiences very high occupancy rates throughout the year and is Hartwells highest producer of camping revenue.
Boating and water sports top the list of popular activities. A boat ramp is provided for easy lake access. With multiple trails snaking throughout the shoreline area, hiking and biking are also popular pastimes.
Hartwell Lake is a man-made lake bordering Georgia and South Carolina on the Savannah, Tugaloo and Seneca Rivers. The dam and lake area boasts 8 campgrounds and 11 day-use facilities that are operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The Hartwell Project was originally authorized for hydro-power, flood control, and navigation. Later, recreation, water quality, water supply and fish and wildlife management were added. Surrounding vegetation allows for plenty of shade, and the 962 miles of shoreline provide numerous swimming beaches, picnic areas and boat ramps.
Twin Lakes is located just five miles from Clemson, South Carolina and Clemson University, offering additional tourism opportunities, along with grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.
$30 / night
Tallulah Gorge State Park is designated one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia and is a great place for camping near Atlanta. Tallulah Gorge is a 2-mile-long, 1000-foot-deep canyon of metamorphic rock, where the Tallulah River tumbles over six dramatic waterfalls. This unique ecosystem is also the home to several endangered plant species, including the persistent trillium. These natural features have drawn visitors to the gorge since the early 1800s, and with the construction of the Tallulah Falls Railway in 1882, it became Georgia’s first official tourist attraction. Now the gorge is a hotspot for outdoor activity, ranging from hiking, fishing and swimming, to more adventurous pursuits, such as rock climbing and whitewater paddling.
The best way to explore Tallulah Gorge is to camp at Tallulah Gorge State Park. Located 100 miles northeast of Atlanta, this 2700-acre park provides 50 tent and RV sites (two are ADA-accessible) on the rim of the raging river gorge. The park also has one group site, and three hike-in backcountry sites. Campsites in the park are fairly compact and close together, so don’t expect a lot of seclusion. Campground amenities include flush toilets, showers, laundry facilities and a dump station. There are also two playgrounds for the kids, picnic areas, an interpretive center, and access to a sandy beach on Tallulah Falls Lake.
The main draw to Tallulah Gorge is hiking down to Sliding Rock at the bottom of the gorge. The park only issues 100 permits per day for this hike in order to minimize impact and maintain the canyon’s natural character. These permits are given on a first-come, first-serve basis, and cannot be reserved in advance—so get yours early! Without a permit, there are many more trails to hike along the rim of the gorge, with each offering stunning viewpoints. Don’t miss the suspension bridge on the Hurricane Falls Trail, which provides a spectacular river view from 80 feet directly above the churning waterfall.
FUN FACT: Tallulah Gorge was used as a filming location for Marvel’s Infinity War. Eagle-eyed fans may recognize Hurricane Falls in the final battle in Wakanda.
This recreation area is part of Hartwell Lake
Springfield Campground is one of Hartwells most popular camping destinations consisting of 60 acres of primarily Virginia pine and some mixed hardwoods. The area presently offers 1 gatehouse/entrance, 2 park attendant campsites, 79 public campsites with full water and electric hookups, 6 comfort stations (4 with showers), 1 dump station, 1 boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 3 playgrounds, 1 designated swim area/beach, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout.
Fishing is one of the most popular activities at the lake. Sought-after species include largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish, striped bass and hybrid bass. The lake appeals to boaters of all kinds, whether their specialty is canoeing, sailing or motor boating. Coves and areas of quiet water provide water skiers with excellent surfaces. Swimmers will find sand beaches and designated swim areas along the shoreline.
Hartwell Lake is a man-made lake bordering Georgia and South Carolina on the Savannah, Tugaloo and Seneca Rivers. The dam and lake area boasts 8 campgrounds and 11 day-use facilities that are operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The Hartwell Project was originally authorized for hydro-power, flood control, and navigation. Later, recreation, water quality, water supply and fish and wildlife management were added. Surrounding vegetation allows for plenty of shade, and the 962 miles of shoreline provide numerous swimming beaches, picnic areas and boat ramps.
The campground is a short drive away from Clemson, South Carolina and Clemson University, offering additional tourism opportunities, along with grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants.
$32 / night
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, among thousand-year-old oak trees, Carolina Landing RV Camping is conveniently located near Atlanta, GA and Charlotte, NC. This Lake Hartwell RV campground is open year round and enjoys nearby mountain destinations. Our Thousand Trails RV park is located on the third most visited reservoir east of the Mississippi River. Lake Hartwell has warm breezes great for sailing or recreational boating. Several marinas near Carolina Landing RV Camping offer boat rental, or you can launch your own at the nearby Durham Ramp for free. South Carolina was made for vacationing with nearly 400 golf courses, and festivals every weekend. Experience true southern hospitality at a Lake Hartwell RV resort. Enjoy Appalachian foothills at a Lake Hartwell RV campground Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Carolina Landing RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
$30 / night
Guide
Each campsite has wonderful views of the water. there is a playground by the entrance and near the farthest campsites as well. we enjoyed our stay.
Guide
I love coming here to swim. Signal is very poor for Verizon. The sites are not super private but not too close to each other. The prices per night are ridiculous imo for a non full hookup campground but hey I still pay it just to swim in lake Joccassee.
Guide
Amazing place. We went in the winter so it wasn't too crowded. Sites are waterfront and spacious
GuideNot too far from the water, which was great since we brought our own kayaks and kayaked to two water falls. Lots of trees to hang hammocks (we had 3) which is good because the only place to pitch a tent is on the pads which aren’t very large. They are basically concrete pads and we couldn’t steak the tent down well. Many dead limbs in the trees so be careful where you pitch your tent, or hang your hammock. Since the site is near the marina we could see/hear boats docking. Each site has a bear box which are roomy and were clean. The bathhouse was clean and well lit. The RV/camper sites are pretty close together with narrow roads. The park was beautiful and mostly clean. I found a tire in the water a few miles out on the way to the first waterfall and took it to a ranger the next day. He was happy to take it.
Guide
Very good spot near the lake. Awesome views and good signal at least for Verizon. Water pressure was a bit inconsistent so watch out for any issues that may cause
Scout
Very rude and unhelpful said he would call me back to let me know if there was any openings. He never called back.
Ranger
Campsite surround the lake. Sites are plenty big and lead to the lake. Campground was very peaceful. We had a small walk to bathroom with showers.
Ranger
The site was big with lot of more plus private. The bathroom was clean and showers were hot.
Guide
I loved everything about this campground. The sites all have beautiful views and lake access, they are decently apart from each other. And has great signal! I was getting consistent 5G 3 bars at least with Verizon. The bathrooms don't have showers so plan accordingly
Guide
Absolutely breathtaking views! Clean facility and campground. Friendly staff as well.
GuideWe really enjoyed our stay at Black Rock. Despite being at full capacity for Labor Day weekend, the park did not feel overly crowded. The staff attending the lodge store were welcoming and knowledgeable. There was a good selection of necessities available, along with ice and firewood. The comfort station was clean and well-appointed and there was never a wait for facilities. While privacy of sites varied, we spotted a few with really lovely mountainside views. The Tennessee Rock Trail to the summit and overlook is the perfect distance for a morning hike and not too strenuous. The Black Rock Lake Trail is very scenic and well worth the 20–30 minutes it takes to walk the circuit. There are also day facilities such as picnic tables and grills. Highly recommend.
Traveler
I went in July and it was cool in day and cold at night nice , secluded
Guide
Site 7 is separate from the others and has the whole point except there is a trail behind the site. No easy, sandy water access unless you go to the nice beach they have.
Guide
I have gone to Sarah’s creek multiple times. It fills up sometimes but there are plenty of free spots around the area
Traveler
Great spot with room to turn around. Shaded and at trailhead of a trail down to creek and near a second trail to a waterfall. Had a few people during the day but evenings were totally quiet. A bit of extra vehicle clearance is helpful...slow and steady gets you to a great spot. No services here but good dispersed spot.
RangerI’ve been camping at Sarah’s Creek for years - you can pay online or at the campground itself (envelope/tag system), etc. There is absolutely ZERO Verizon service. 26 sites, all with picnic tables, fire rings and lantern posts. Some are better than others. The creek is shallow for the most part but there is a trail marked by a bright green circle spraypainted onto a pine tree shortly before the first few sites (on the left as you enter, just before the campground begins) where there are some small falls and a nice little swimming/bathing hole. Trout fisherman’s delight. Road is easy enough but has a lot of dips and switchbacks; 4x2 is completely adequate, though could be tough in extremely wet conditions. Sarah’s Creek is the perfect weekend getaway. Lots of trails to bike/explore, too.
Traveler
We stayed at site 28, which wasnt waterfront but had a small view of the water past other sites. The sites are all good sized. Ours fit our camper and large truck, and still had room for three tents on the pad. The layout looks massive but its easy walking. The beach is a five minute walk. There are two beaches and multiple playgrounds, and the paved roads make for fun bike riding. The heavy foliage makes everything private. Theres no sewer hookups because its an old Corp of Engineers park, but the dump stations are modern and nice. The bathhouses were old and grubby and could use some upgrades. We didnt shower but did use the toilets occasionally to conserve on black water space. But I did peak at the showers. Theyre push-button jail-style. Bring bikes, swimming gear, and any watercraft you have and youll have a great time.
Legend
This was our second rv trip here. Being able to back up to a river, throw in tubes and just enjoy… is something wild. Great location with easy access. Spots are not private, but that doesn’t take from anything. We made friends. The staff was great. The bathhouse was average. Will certainly be back!
LegendWe’ve camped here multiple times. We are always impressed with the spacious sites, lake access, quiet relaxing atmosphere.
Scout
Eenjoyed staying there, staff was awesome and really did a great job keeping the guest happy. The 4th of July events was awesome and was a full day of contest and ended with a DJ kicking the tunes. Recommend to all to give them a try!
TravelerStayed over 4th of July weekend. Couldn’t believe how quiet it was for a holiday. There isn’t anything around at all. They offer a pool but no other activities (they did have some 4th activities but it was all seasonal). It backs to the lake so if you have a boat it’s nice. But when we went on the lake we saw many other campgrounds that looked nicer. There is one dumpster that we had to walk to to throw trash away. No pick up or closer locations. Not level sites. Mostly seasonal which is fine but not a great place or easy to get in/out of if transient. Other campgrounds closer to Clemson. No town nearby at all.
GuideFirst time at this State Campground. Fairly easy to find and navigate within the community. Ranger staff was supper friendly. For being early July it’s in the mid to high 80’s. The humidity is low. The nights dipped down in the low 70’s. The nights are bearable; the abundance of trees drives down the summer heat. You have to walk to your tent site. It’s not that long of a trek but if you have a large entourage, or if you’re of the mindset of bring with you all the amenities from home; there will be a lot of back n forth to your vehicle. It’s quiet at night time for there being lots of people onsite. The camp sites are far enough apart and have enough trees coverage/ shading to give you some privacy. Make sure you bring a good headband light or strong flashlight with you to walk back n forth to your vehicle & bathroom at night. We brought a camp style portable potty. The bathroom is just too far for us to walk in the middle of the night especially with a 4yr old. Highly recommend campsite. The lake beach access was nice. Water was cool and refreshing. My one complaint of the beach access was; there were far too many people with carelessness leaving trash, abandoned clothes, diapers, water toys, and all sorts of debris littering the beach rocks, etc. We had a wonderful time. Highly recommend experience with the family.
Scout
Great location, super clean and modern, but with the smokie mountain touch Full hookups, great cell phones, signal Verizon and AT&T works really good, clean and modern laundry
Legend
We live in NC and have camped all over the eastern US. By far Georgia is a state with some of the very best infrastructure. Roads are great. State Parks are some of the best and we’ve camped at many. Tugaloo State Park is a nice park. Right on the lake. Lots of lake related activities. This area of the campground (sites 73-105) has a unique layout in that a large number of sites are pull through and arranged sideways along the access roads. This makes the sites long and narrow and results in close neighbors. The elongated sites mean the picnic table and fire pit are at far end and feel disconnected from the site. Roads are well maintained and sites all seemed pretty level. We were in site 97 with W/E. The bathhouse was very close, but we did not use it. We were a few rows back from the lake but had a view of the lake through the tall pines that provided some shade. We’ve camped here a couple of other times and would come back again.
Scout
Looking for a unique living experience while attending Toccoa Falls College? The Toccoa Falls College RV Park offers a fantastic opportunity for students to enjoy the beauty of nature right on campus. This student-only RV park provides a peaceful, community-oriented environment perfect for studying and relaxing. With convenient access to campus facilities and the stunning Toccoa Falls just a short walk away, it's an ideal option for those who love the great outdoors. leon s kennedy leather jacket Whether you're a full-time RV dweller or just looking for a temporary spot, the Toccoa Falls College RV Park has you covered!
GuideWe had a very pleasant time at this campground. The water and bathrooms were close and clean which was great for the kids and our dogs to get water. The lake was a short walk and absolutely stunning! Crystal clear water allowed us to look at the schools of fish swimming with us. There are plenty of small mouth bass to be claimed as well! We will definitely be back!
Guide
Pretty nice campground, although the sites are a little closer to each other than what I'm used to. Campground facilities are clean and very well kept (they rake the sites and shovel out the fire pits). Bath houses are kept clean and stocked also. We camped in site 31 with our 32 ft TT. It was tight backing in, I would say that out of the "standard" sites 28, 30, 32 and 34 are the best sites available. Nice trails with beautiful scenery, 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. Overall a really wonderful park.
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.
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 166 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 4.6-star rating from 40 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.
What parks are near Hartwell, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Hartwell, GA that allow camping, notably Hartwell Lake and J. Strom Thurmond Lake.
