Lake Hartwell camping options extend beyond the RV parks mentioned in the existing description, with several sites offering unique waterfront access and varied terrain throughout the 962 miles of shoreline. At an elevation of around 660 feet, Lake Hartwell spans nearly 56,000 acres across the Georgia-South Carolina border, creating numerous camping opportunities with varying amenities and access points. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shore access and boat launching capabilities at certain campgrounds.
What to do
Kayaking from shoreline access: Big Water Marina & RV Park offers excellent paddling opportunities with equipment rentals on-site. "We love this spot. Most of the camp spots are not shaded, but right on the water. Boat rentals are available as well as paddle boards and kayaks," notes Sarah P.
Explore nearby waterfalls: When camping at Currahee RV Park, take a short drive to Toccoa Falls. "Spent 4 nights here for a family vacation. It unfortunately rained half the time but it was still an amazing trip. Clean nearby lake, perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating. Plus it's near the wonderful Toccoa waterfall," shares Maddi P.
Basketball and volleyball: Several rv parks near Hartwell, Georgia offer court sports for active campers. "There are a lot of activities for campers such as mini golf, a swimming pool, a basketball court, a volleyball court, and a playground," notes Myron C. about one campground.
Live music and social events: Summer weekends often feature entertainment at lakeside campgrounds. "During the football season on Friday nights live music can be enjoyed as well as a dinner buffet!" mentions Tammy H. about Tiger Stripes RV Campsites.
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: The Point at Lake Hartwell offers prime lakefront sites. "My family and I enjoyed camping on the beach here by the lake. The campground had a lot to offer. There was a restaurant/bar, playground, Marina, stage with live bands," says Juraj & Christine O.
Private deck spaces: Some campsites feature custom-built wooden decks overlooking water. "We found this place when our other place to stay fell through and we Googled 'campgrounds near me'. We were lucky enough to get a spot overlooking a creek on the property. We had a little deck that was perfect to back our toy hauler up to and open the back," shares Addie about Currahee RV Park.
Clean individual bathrooms: Facilities at several Hartwell RV parks have upgraded from communal to individual bathroom units. "Immaculate private bathrooms with sink, toilet & showers. Pool and small playground. Good wifi signal & close to town," reports Kelly S. about Crooked Creek RV Park & Marina.
Proximity to shopping: Georgia RV Park provides convenient access to retail options. "Good option for anyone making a day of the Outlets," notes JuJu D., making it practical for restocking supplies during longer stays.
What you should know
Lake level variations: Water levels can change throughout the year, affecting shoreline sites. "My Husband, Niece, Nephew & I just got back from spending a wonderful weekend @ The Point! Such a great carefree, quiet and peaceful place to stay!" shares Jackie J., who adds that "the boat ramp/dock to access beautiful Lake Hartwell was ok! The ramp/dock area could use a little facelift."
Holiday weekend planning: Some campgrounds remain surprisingly uncrowded even during peak times. "Stayed over 4th of July weekend. Couldn't believe how quiet it was for a holiday. There isn't anything around at all," reports Amanda A. about The Point at Lake Hartwell.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly between rv parks in the Hartwell, Georgia area. Some campgrounds offer WiFi to compensate for spotty cellular coverage. "We are under a WiFi pole and have good signal and usable internet. It was actually worth paying for," notes Ian R.
Seasonal operations: Many campground amenities operate on limited schedules. "Our hope was to spend some late afternoon time at the pool, but that didn't work out. Some of the mini golf holes were also missing carpet in some places," one camper mentions.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Georgia RV Park offers family-friendly features despite compact sites. "Clean pet friendly park with very nice, helpful and funny staff. New sod in between the large gravel sites. Bigger park than I expected," shares Kelly N.
Consider cabin options: Several campgrounds offer cabin rentals for families without RVs. "This campground was fun. My family and I enjoyed camping on the beach here by the lake," writes Juraj & Christine O. about their stay at Big Water Marina & RV Park.
Check pool hours: Pool schedules vary between campgrounds and seasons. "The amenities: Laundry, Swimming Pool, Dump Station, Club House, Pool Tables, Lake Access (Lake Hartwell), Basketball Court, Volleyball, Playground, Storage Lot, Beach area, Fishing," lists one reviewer.
Bring bikes or golf carts: Larger campgrounds can involve significant walking distances. "A golf cart is helpful to have, or bikes," advises Kimberly H. about Crooked Creek RV Park & Marina.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Tiger Stripes RV Campsites & Tailgate, LLC offers more level sites than some neighboring properties. "Great RV park. Everything you need is right here. The executive lot is the best. Peaceful, clean, great pool and pavilion's. Very golf cart friendly," notes Kevin H.
Tight entrance roads: Navigation can be challenging at certain campgrounds. "If you miss the turn you are safer backing up to the entrance," advises one experienced RVer about a particular campground.
Site selection for bigger rigs: Concrete pad availability varies between campgrounds. "Nice concrete pads in a former pasture. Not a lot of shade for most sites," mentions Jason S. about Currahee RV Park, making it suitable for larger motorhomes needing solid footing.
Overnight pull-through availability: Georgia RV Park offers convenient transit options. "Overnight stay in a off level pull-through site. The bathrooms are extremely nice and the dogs liked the walking area," reports Christine.
