Clarks Hill Lake, also called Lake Thurmond, covers 71,000 acres with 1,200 miles of shoreline along the Savannah River at the Georgia-South Carolina border. The lake's moderate climate means camping season runs longer than many other regions, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing in winter. RV sites near Lincolnton, Georgia typically remain open year-round with varying levels of amenities and lake access.
What to do
Kayaking and swimming access: At Elijah Clark State Park Campground, waterfront camping allows easy lake activities. "We launched our kayak from campsite," notes Susan H., while another camper mentions "You can go swimming in the summer too."
Fishing opportunities: Leroys Ferry offers prime fishing spots with waterfront access. "Great place for the whole family for fishing and camping," shares Stevie W. Most sites have trail access to the water, making it convenient for anglers.
Historical exploration: Some campsites offer more than nature. "There is also plenty of history to see, experience and learn about," writes Bill C. about Elijah Clark State Park. The park features a replica of the Revolutionary War hero's log cabin and interpretive displays about frontier life.
Boat rentals: Several campgrounds provide options beyond your own watercraft. "Boat rentals are available as well as paddle boards and kayaks," says Sarah P. about Big Water Marina. Some marinas offer hourly, half-day, and full-day rental options with rates typically starting around $25/hour.
What campers like
Affordable waterfront sites: Leroys Ferry offers budget-friendly lakefront camping. "For that kind of isolation right on the water for only $10/night, I'm not complaining much," notes Cody S. The primitive sites don't have hookups but provide direct water access.
Clean facilities: Many campers specifically mention bathroom cleanliness. "The bathrooms with shower stalls have AC and heat no matter the time of year you go," says Wanda C. about Elijah Clark State Park. Another reviewer noted, "The pit toilets were kept very clean" at Leroys Ferry.
Space between sites: Hester's Bottoms Family Campground provides well-spaced waterfront camping. "The campsites are all a good size and not right next to each other. A lot are tucked away off the road a little and most are right on the water," notes Brenda L. The campground's design with multiple loops helps reduce traffic.
Evening views: Sunset views across the lake are frequently mentioned. "Sunsets over the lake were gorgeous," reports Amber W., while another camper describes watching "the sunset over the water" from a hammock at Leroys Ferry.
What you should know
Site flooding potential: Some premium sites may have drainage issues during rain. At Elijah Clark, one camper reported, "Our site (#65) flooded and became clay-muddy when it rained."
Wind conditions: Lakefront tent sites can experience significant wind. "We literally had to tie down our tent to anything including our car because it got so windy from the winds across the lake," warns Kirsten W. about Elijah Clark State Park Campground.
Reservation systems vary: While many campgrounds allow online reservations, some like Leroys Ferry operate on first-come-first-served basis with drop boxes for payment. "Bring exact money because it's just a drop box," advises Danny B.
Seasonal crowds: Summer holidays can create crowding issues. "We arrived on a Saturday morning to reserve a walkin site that was available online... only to arrive at the site and see that it was already taken," reports one camper about a July visit, noting the campground was "overly crowded more than the allotted cars per campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Check breed restrictions: Hester's Bottoms Family Campground has specific dog policies to be aware of. "Make sure your dogs breed is allowed," warns Ruth E., who had to leave early when staff determined their "bully breed dogs" weren't permitted.
Look for entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer more kid-friendly activities than others. "There was a restaurant/bar, playground, Marina, stage with live bands. My kids had so much fun," shares a visitor at Big Water Marina & RV Park.
Bathroom proximity matters: With children, consider site location relative to facilities. "I was near the bath house and laundry which were both clean and well maintained," notes Charlie B. about Boss RV Park, while Hester's Bottoms has "a bathhouse on each loop."
Pack out trash: Not all campgrounds provide garbage service. At Leroys Ferry, "No trash dumpster either so be prepared to pack it out," advises Danny B. This is particularly important with families who typically generate more waste.
Tips from RVers
Site surface variations: RV pads differ significantly between campgrounds. "Our driveway was gravel/sand but the patio was paved with a picnic table," reports Nancy W. about Heritage RV Park, while at Plum Branch RV Park, one camper noted "newish pad was still soft but pretty level."
Utility post configurations: Setup challenges exist at some parks. At Plum Branch RV Park, "Electric posts are new but have a meter right below plugs, so surge suppressor gets to hang sideways," reports Kevin H., who also noted "sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches."
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs across the region. At Plum Branch RV Park, one camper tested multiple carriers finding "Cricket: 7.98dn, 0.84up; ATT: 27.69, 0.3 up; Visible: 7.2dn, 1.2up; Verizon: 44.9dn, 1.88 up; T-mobile mifi: no 4G nor 5G service."
Site positioning considerations: At Pointes West Army Resort, "We were able to park our 44 ft. Fifth wheel with ease," notes Judy W., but cautioned about privacy: "We were very close to neighbors. They were all in a row so if you open your curtains others can see you."
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