Cabin camping near J. Strom Thurmond Lake provides access to over 1,200 miles of shoreline at one of the largest inland water bodies in the Southeast. Located in the Piedmont region of Georgia, the lake spans approximately 71,000 acres with elevations averaging 330 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F, while winter lows can dip to the 30s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Anglers catch bass, crappie, bream, and catfish at Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground. "We caught 2 bass. There is a picnic table and a fire pit with a built-in grill, but we cooked on our Coleman stove and charcoal grill mostly," notes one visitor who enjoyed the primitive campsite.
Water recreation: Mistletoe State Park Campground offers various water activities beyond just swimming. "Lots of water activities. The beach and boating facilities were very nice," mentions one camper. The park rents kayaks, and waterfront campsites allow guests to pull boats directly up to their sites.
Historical exploration: Visit Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground to see Georgia's longest original covered bridge at 229 feet. "You will pass the ruins of an old hydro power plant," writes a reviewer who hiked the trail to the bridge. The park features seven miles of hiking trails and five miles of bike trails.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Hickory Knob State Park Resort offers private lake access at certain campsites. "Our site was for the most part level with a bonus little cove by the lake water for sitting and swimming," shares one camper, highlighting the personal water access point.
Well-maintained facilities: A. H. Stephens State Park Campground receives praise for its upkeep. "Large, well maintained sites. We stayed on 17 and it was very private. We hiked from the campground to Lake Buncombe and also hiked from Sunset Drive trail to Lake Liberty and the office," notes a visitor who appreciated the hiking connections.
Affordability for military families: Military Park South Carolina Army National Guard Clarks Hill Training Center offers economical options for qualified visitors. "Whether camping in a tent or renting a cabin, all are $20 per night. Beautiful lake, flushing toilets and hot showers," reports a camper, though access is restricted to military personnel.
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Low water levels affect primitive sites at Watson Mill Bridge during dry periods. "If the water is low like it was when I was here, the lake water was not accessible - you'd have to trudge through 50 feet of mud to get to it. Save site #3 for the springtime only I think," advises a camper.
Reservation requirements: Weekends fill quickly, especially at Elijah Clark State Park Campground. "We arrived on a Saturday morning to reserve a walkin site that was available online. Paid for the site at the office only to arrive at the site and see that it was already taken, along with all the others," reports one visitor who experienced booking issues.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. "Phone service with ATT and Sprint/T-Mobile is non-existent at the campsite. 200 yards uphill at bathhouse service is available," notes a Watson Mill Bridge visitor, highlighting the need to plan communications accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Pointes West Army Resort features a rope course popular with children. "Very clean facility, awesome cope course," mentions one visitor who brought children to the park during spring.
Multi-generational site planning: Consider accessibility needs when booking. "We stayed in 2 sites with the grandparents. Site 9 (handicapped site) was perfect for the grandparents as there was a short paved walkway straight to the bath house," shares an A. H. Stephens visitor.
Pioneer sites for older children: Watson Mill Bridge offers primitive camping options for families seeking adventure. "Pioneer campsite 1 is very nice. Large site with fire pit and picnic table. Table is chained to a tree. No tent pad, you can pick where you want to sleep. There are lots of trees for hammocks. And you are right on the water," explains a camper who enjoyed the secluded setting.
Tips from RVers
Power management: Watson Mill Bridge requires monitoring electricity usage. "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," advises an RVer who brought their rig to the park.
Site selection for larger rigs: At Hickory Knob, some sites present challenges. "Some sites are challenging to back into but worth the effort," notes one RV camper who visited the state park. Larger units may require careful site selection.
Road conditions: Prepare for uneven terrain at certain parks. "The only reason for 4 stars rather than 5 is the fact that the campground road is in pretty rough shape," shares a Hickory Knob camper who found navigating to their site somewhat difficult despite enjoying their overall stay.
