Equestrian enthusiasts and outdoor lovers find several options for horse campgrounds near Hartwell Lake where Georgia meets South Carolina. The terrain consists of rolling foothills transitioning into higher mountain areas of the southern Appalachians. Elevation changes from around 660 feet at lake level to over 1,000 feet in surrounding highlands create diverse trail experiences with moderate temperature variations between spring and fall camping seasons.
What to do
Waterfront activities: South Cove County Park provides direct lake access for campers. "If you have a boat or jetski there is a ramp. Has showers and restrooms. The lake is great for swimming. The campground also offers paddle board and kayak rentals," notes Amanda W.
Equestrian trail riding: The Willis Knob Horse Camp trail system follows scenic riverside routes. According to Phyllis B., "Trails are wonderful and well-constructed to avoid deep mud. My only complaint is the lack of really good, accurate trail maps to print out and carry with you of the horse trails on both the Georgia and South Carolina sides of the river."
Hiking options: Nearby Oconee State Park Campground connects to multiple trail networks. Jay B. reports, "There are tons of hiking opportunities in the area with tons of waterfalls. We did get to hike to a few, but wish we had more time to spend there."
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: South Cove County Park offers productive fishing from shorelines and boat launches. Mike K. describes it as a "Great campground with great hosts and great fishing. Beautiful lake with crystal clear water. Easy access."
Historical structures: Watson Mill Bridge State Park features Georgia's longest original covered bridge. "229 ft long covered bridge you can drive through (height and weight restrictions). Sites have power and water, dump station is available," explains Norris K.
Seclusion and privacy: The backcountry camping options provide quiet retreats from busier areas. At Panthertown Valley, Julie L. found: "This is a beautiful area with tons of dispersed camping. You will really need to pack a bear safe food container and absolutely store food using a bear line well away from camp as there are most certainly bears out and about."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Rain can affect trail and campsite conditions, particularly in lower-lying areas. Nicole R. cautions about primitive sites at Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground: "If there is rain in the forecast do not, for the love of God, do not camp in the pioneer sites. You will get flooded."
Limited cell service: Many areas around Hartwell Lake have poor connectivity. Ashley S. notes about Oconee State Park: "The area very serene, quiet and pretty. Nice hiking area and swimming area. If you need to get ahold of someone though you'll have to drive 10 to 15 minutes into town."
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active in parts of the region, requiring proper food storage. Phoebe A. warns about Panthertown Valley: "Just spent the weekend at Panthertown Valley and loved it! However - be aware that the bears here are extremely bad. I actually had an encounter with a very large bear who charged my group and destroyed at tent."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: South Cove County Park offers multiple play areas for children. Kelli P. notes, "There are several large play areas in walking distance. There appeared to be beautiful lake views from almost every site."
Watch for geese: Some lakefront areas have resident waterfowl that can cause issues. Roxy M. advises, "warning! Don't feed the geese! The campers next to us fed them and the next day we woke up with goose poop on everything! Including the picnic table!"
Cabin options: For families wanting more creature comforts, Lazy J Campground offers varied accommodations. Nicholas O. explains, "Our site was across the path from the French Broad, had water and power access and felt secluded and mountainous. The bath house was clean and well maintained."
Tips from RVers
Site preparation: Some campgrounds require careful planning for trailer placement. Constance O. mentions about Oconee State Park: "Campsites are often uneven with alot of tree roots running throughout. It does require consideration before parking your trailer or RV."
Access considerations: The Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area presents challenges for larger vehicles. Maddi P. recommends, "Wonderful trails with breath taking views and technical climbs plus discrete camping. It's a trip I recommend to all of my camping and hiking friends."
Electric limitations: Many campgrounds have limited power options. Paul Z. at Watson Mill Bridge State Park advises, "Only 30A 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."
