J. Strom Thurmond Lake spans 71,000 acres along the Georgia-South Carolina border with 1,200 miles of shoreline. The lake sits at around 330 feet above sea level with significant water level fluctuations throughout the year. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winters remain mild enough for year-round camping at most RV parks near J. Strom Thurmond Lake.
What to do
Hiking on Bartram Trail: The scenic Bartram Trail runs directly through Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake and offers over 20 miles of nature trails. "The Bartram Trail runs through this campground as well," notes camper Jaiden W., who stayed recently at Petersburg Campground.
Mountain biking: Trails accessible from the entrance to Petersburg provide excellent riding opportunities. One visitor explains, "Mountain bike trails in either direction just at the park entrance," while another adds, "Bartram Trail, terrific mountain for biking and hiking passes through the property."
Kayaking and canoeing: Elijah Clark State Park Campground offers boat rentals and easy lake access. "We launched our kayak from campsite," shares Susan H., while another camper mentions the convenience of "canoes and kayaks for rent" at the park.
Fishing from shore: Many campsites at Petersburg Campground provide direct water access. The spacious sites allow for fishing directly from your campsite, with most sites positioned in coves or along peninsulas for better access.
What campers like
Peninsula sites with sunset views: At Pointes West Army Resort, waterfront sites on small peninsulas are highly sought after. "Sites L, M, and N are all on a little peninsula that sticks out into Clarks Hill Lake, and are our personal favorites!" reports Jason L., who visited multiple times.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds around the lake maintain well-kept bathhouses. At Elijah Clark State Park, "The bathrooms with shower stalls have AC and heat no matter the time of year you go," according to Wanda C. Another camper specifically notes, "Clean bathhouses."
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas. Petersburg Campground offers "nice swimming beaches," while at Pointes West, one camper notes "Our dogs loved the water."
Privacy between sites: Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds provide good separation between campsites. "The sites were private and clean," mentions one Petersburg camper, while another notes they're "pretty well spaced out for privacy."
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: During summer holidays, expect increased activity at normally quiet campgrounds. At Pointes West, Bobby J. reports from a July 4th stay: "Camp grounds weren't too terribly over crowded when we arrived. However, throughout the day people showed up by the carloads to just hang out and party."
Ants in summer: Take precautions against insects during warmer months. "Ants can be a huge problem though during the summer," warns Scott M. about his experience at Pointes West Army Resort.
Reservation timing: For weekends during peak season, book early. Several campgrounds fill up weeks in advance, particularly for waterfront sites.
Poison ivy awareness: Some campgrounds have poison ivy in natural areas. "There was also a lot of poison ivy," warns one Petersburg Campground visitor, so wearing long pants on trails is recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Mini-libraries and nature centers: Heritage RV Park lacks playground facilities but offers alternative activities. "There were no fire pits or communal areas/playgrounds, so it was difficult to keep our toddler entertained," notes Andrew L., highlighting the importance of choosing campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities.
Protected swimming areas: Multiple campgrounds offer designated beach areas with gentler slopes for children. Elijah Clark State Park features a beach area that kids enjoy alongside "playing putt putt, the playground and the beach area," according to Bill C.
Educational opportunities: Several parks provide historical exhibits for families. "There is also plenty of history to see, experience and learn about," shares a camper at Elijah Clark State Park, making it ideal for educational family outings.
Tips from RVers
Sewer connections: Some RV parks have unusual sewer hookup configurations. At Plum Branch RV Park, Kevin H. notes "Sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches," suggesting adapters may be needed for proper connections.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites at Thurmond Lake campgrounds require minimal leveling. Petersburg Campground receives praise for well-maintained sites, with one RVer mentioning, "Access to sites are easy. Almost all are pull through. Hook ups are well maintained as are the roads and trailer parking areas."
Cellular coverage: Internet connectivity varies by location and carrier around the lake. At Plum Branch RV Park, speed tests showed "Verizon: 44.9dn, 1.88 up" while "T-mobile mifi: no 4G nor 5G service," according to detailed testing by a recent visitor.
Campsite selection for privacy: At Warthen RV Park, about an hour from the lake, RVers appreciate the "huge fields and beautiful trees" that create a sense of "serenity." One camper notes, "The air is just different. I find great peace here."
