Best Campgrounds near Lincolnton, GA

Lincolnton, Georgia sits along the shorelines of J. Strom Thurmond Lake, providing access to multiple waterfront camping options. Elijah Clark State Park offers tent, RV, and cabin accommodations with full water and electric hookups within city limits. Surrounding the area, several Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds including Winfield, Petersburg, and Modoc provide additional developed camping options along the lake's extensive shoreline. Most campgrounds feature a mix of tent and RV sites with varying levels of amenities, from primitive lakeside spots to full-service sites with electricity, water, and sewer connections.

Access to campgrounds remains available year-round at several locations, though some Army Corps sites like Winfield and Modoc operate seasonally from March through September. "Every site is on the water," notes one camper describing Hawe Creek Campground, highlighting the premium lakefront positioning that makes this region particularly attractive. Most campgrounds feature boat ramps and fishing areas, with some offering swimming beaches and designated recreation areas. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Weather conditions remain mild through most seasons, with comfortable camping possible from early spring through late fall.

Lakefront camping represents the primary attraction near Lincolnton, with most sites offering direct water access or views of J. Strom Thurmond Lake. Campers consistently mention privacy and spaciousness as standout features at many locations. According to one visitor, Winfield Campground is "quiet and peaceful, tucked up the Little River and therefore not on the main body of Clarks Hill Lake which sees a good deal of boat traffic in the summer months." The surrounding area offers numerous water recreation opportunities including fishing, boating, and paddling. Many campgrounds provide boat launches or fishing piers for easy water access. Sites at Mistletoe State Park and Hamilton Branch State Park receive particularly strong reviews for their water proximity, size, and privacy between sites. Travelers should note that bathroom facilities vary significantly between locations, with some offering modern amenities while others maintain more basic accommodations.

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Best Camping Sites Near Lincolnton, Georgia (105)

    1. Mistletoe State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Appling, GA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-0321

    $12 - $190 / night

    "Mistletoe State Park is another great Georgia State Park."

    "We spent a couple of nights in Mistletoe State Park in Georgia while we investigated my husband's ancestry.  This park is truly beautiful."

    2. Elijah Clark State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Lincolnton, GA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 359-3458

    $20 - $185 / night

    "From the main entrance is a winding wooded road to the main store."

    "Set up well for families with children… room to ride bikes, scooters, skateboards; playground; putt putt course; trails to walk; beach areas all around the camp ground for easy access to the water."

    3. Hamilton Branch State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    15 miles
    Website

    "The downside to this design is that sites on the left side of the T shape, back in with the trailers camp side facing the road, not the lake."

    "We checked in on a Thursday evening from the drive from Florida. Campsite was chosen from a map, which seemed to have an upfront water access."

    4. Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    31 Reviews
    Modoc, GA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-9464

    $22 - $50 / night

    "There is water and electric at each site for those who are in a RV but the dump sites are pretty close by. We will definitely be back!"

    "Lakeside lot with incredible space. Dog friendly and they enjoyed being able to go for a swim right outside of the camper."

    5. Winfield - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    11 Reviews
    Appling, GA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-0147

    $32 / night

    "Winfield is a compartively little-known USACE campground situated on a peninsula near the more heavily-traffic Mistletoe State Park."

    "It’s right on the lake. There is a retaining wall at the water so it’s about a 3” step to the water. We plan to bring a sep ladder next time. Beautiful place to spend your time camping."

    6. Hickory Knob State Park Resort — Hickory Knob State Park

    6 Reviews
    Lincolnton, SC
    6 miles
    Website

    "If you are looking for a near perfect lakeside camping experience in the 'Low Country' here in South Carolina, than you may have just found the perfect getaway! "

    "Trails for hiking/biking. Nice sites close to the lake. Shower house is just adequate, barely."

    7. Hawe Creek - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    6 Reviews
    Plum Branch, SC
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 443-5441

    $28 - $32 / night

    "The campground is situated on Strom Thurmond Lake. The campground is run by the Army Corp of Engineers. There is a boat launh and fishing pier near by Dorn Fishing Facility."

    "Every site has an awesome view and easy access to the water - wth tons of privacy between sites!"

    8. Baker Creek State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    McCormick, SC
    9 miles
    Website

    "We were able to drag water floats and things down to the waters edge outside our site."

    "Easy access to the lake for fishing. We stayed at site 17 might be better if we had a small pull behind for this site but oh well we made the best of it and enjoyed our trip."

    9. Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    12 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 333-2272

    $22 - $64 / night

    "Lots of RVs and pull behinds. Sites were well spaced. We had 15 and it was great, I would stay at the same site again. Water and electric at all sites. Access to water from majority of sites."

    "Quiet beautiful good fishing, minimal bugs, waded in the sandy edge of the lake. We will be back."

    10. Calhoun Falls State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Calhoun Falls, GA
    23 miles
    Website

    "This is one of South Carolina's furthest afield campgrounds (any closer to Georgia and you'd be in that state!)"

    "Our side has a walkway/steps to the lake. There was a sandy area to the lake. There is NOTHING near by so make sure you take your food for the stay."

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Recent Reviews near Lincolnton, GA

483 Reviews of 105 Lincolnton Campgrounds


  • Bobbie S.
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Carolina Hill Mobile Home and RV Park

    Peaceful

    Traveling for my husband's work. Kimberly Clark is six minutes away. Moved in one day ago and I already know that I absolutely LOVE it here! Zero road noise, large sites, shade trees and laundry room. Robbie in the office is as sweet as can be. Met the owner this morning, very nice man. If you walk around the park four times, you have walked a mile. Will try to remember to update this review when we leave. update Still love it here and would absolutely stay here again ❤️

  • Bobbie S.
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Pine Acres Campground and RV Park

    Not a bad stay.

    Spent three weeks here for my husband's work. Many full time renter's. My neighbors were wonderful people. The office manager, Tammy, was absolutely amazing! There was no openings at any campground in the area and she was able to work it out for us to be able to move in. They are working on adding a lower area for more sites. Sadly, there are no trees down there. The current sites are pretty close together. I would not be able to open my awning all the way if I wanted to. This is a great spot for someone here working and needs a place. Not really a family vacation spot. It is quite busy within the park, people coming and going a lot. It's off a very busy road, noise pollution is a factor. I came to the conclusion that the owner is pretty focused on adding the new sites (makes sense, that's how you afford upgrades). That being said, fixing VERY large potholes seems like something you could easily keep up with. You are able to receive mail here. They have a bathhouse/bathrooms, laundry room and dumpsters.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Springfield - Hartwell Lake

    Gorgeous view

    I believe every site is lake front. The view of the lake is amazing and perfect. Some sites have little beaches for access to the water. Others have rocks if you want to make your way down those. Mine had rocks covered with wire thats been cut or broken so wasn’t taking my chances there. This place is huge! There is no sewer at sites but water and electric up to 50amp

  • K C.
    May. 14, 2025

    Hamburg State Park Campground

    Fantastic on the water sites

    Wonderful park and fantastic staff, there is a small general store next to the mill. There were crafts and a mill tour while we visited.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 17, 2025

    Wildwood Park Columbia County Park

    Gorgeous !!

    This camp is absolutely gorgeous and the atmosphere is so serene and peaceful. My family and friends LOVE this place!

  • Kevan  R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 15, 2025

    Calhoun Falls State Park Campground

    Great sites with lake views

    This is a SC State Park located in Calhoun Falls, SC. A fishing campground - the vast majority of campers had boats. Sites are great / not on top of each other. Quiet. SC needs to up the maintenance on the park. Playground equipment and trails need immediate work. Bathhouses need upgrading.

  • Rebecca N.
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Diamond Lakes Regional Park Campground

    Needs electric camping for tent camping

    Tent camping was really more of a job than a vacation night and bathrooms were nasty


Guide to Lincolnton

Camping near Lincolnton, Georgia, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With beautiful parks and campgrounds nearby, you can enjoy nature while making lasting memories with family and friends.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campers love to cast a line. At Mistletoe State Park Campground, one reviewer said, "The fishing is AMAZING! 20 palm-sized shell cracker on the first day!" This park is known for its waterfront sites and fishing spots.
  • Kayaking: If you enjoy paddling, Tugaloo State Park Campground has several places to launch kayaks. A visitor mentioned, "We kayaked and hiked. We camp here often. It is clean and everyone was friendly."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Hamilton Branch State Park Campground. One camper noted, "The site is right on the lake with a wide trail leading directly to the water."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Calhoun Falls State Park Campground stated, "Campground had very clean facilities."
  • Spacious sites: Many parks offer roomy campsites. A visitor at Lake Greenwood State Park Campground said, "The campground itself is great, it is steep so big plenty of blocks! Great views."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. One review for Hamburg State Park Campground mentioned, "It’s truly a quiet getaway."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake, have fewer facilities. A camper noted, "The sites were pretty close together, even the ones across the water."
  • Seasonal availability: Check the park's open dates. For example, Hamburg State Park Campground is open from March 15 to November 30.
  • Wildlife: Be aware of local wildlife. A visitor at Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell shared, "Skunks are not afraid of humans and will wander into your campsite in broad daylight."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for kids: Look for parks with playgrounds and fun activities. Elijah Clark State Park Campground has "great playgrounds for kids, plus mini golf and kayak rentals," according to a reviewer.
  • Safety first: Always supervise children near water. A camper at Lake Hartwell State Park Campground mentioned, "The cabins are nice, but small and no plumbing."
  • Plan meals: Bring food and snacks, as some parks are remote. A visitor at Calhoun Falls State Park Campground advised, "There is NOTHING nearby, so make sure you take your food for the stay."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site size: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Tugaloo State Park Campground noted, "The elongated sites mean the picnic table and fire pit are at the far end and feel disconnected from the site."
  • Level your rig: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A camper at Lake Hartwell State Park Campground mentioned, "Ours kept throwing breakers whenever someone new hooked up down the circuit."
  • Use the dump station: Make sure to utilize the sanitary dump stations available at many parks. A visitor at Hamilton Branch State Park Campground appreciated the "dependable small dump station easily accessible."

Camping near Lincolnton, Georgia, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Lincolnton, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Lincolnton, GA offers a wide range of camping options, with 105 campgrounds and RV parks near Lincolnton, GA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Lincolnton, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lincolnton, GA is Mistletoe State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 66 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lincolnton, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Lincolnton, GA.