Water recreation dominates the camping experience near Augusta, Georgia. The region features several well-maintained campgrounds scattered around Strom Thurmond Lake, with sites ranging from spacious waterfront locations to secluded walk-in tent sites. Most campgrounds operate year-round, though water levels can fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access at certain times. Cell service varies by location, with some remote areas having limited connectivity.
What to do
Hiking trails for all skill levels: Visitors to Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake can access the Bartram Trail directly from the campground. One camper notes, "Bartram Trail, terrific mountain for biking and hiking passes through the property." The trail offers both challenging sections for experienced hikers and easier paths for beginners.
Kayaking and water access: Many sites at Hamilton Branch State Park Campground offer direct water access for paddlers. A camper shares, "The site is right on the lake with a wide trail leading directly to the water." Another advises, "The water was low during our trip so the immediate shoreline was a bit squishy going through the damp clay. I'd recommend water shoes."
Geocaching adventures: For families seeking structured activities, Hamilton Branch State Park offers geocaching opportunities. As one reviewer mentions, "Plenty of activities for kids and adults alike, including geocaching." This tech-enabled treasure hunt provides an engaging way to explore the park's natural features.
What campers like
Private, spacious campsites: Mistletoe State Park Campground receives high marks for site spacing and privacy. A camper reviewing the walk-in tent sites explains, "There is good separation between all sites. Sites #2 & #3 are within shouting distance of each other and you'd be able to see tents, etc at one from the other." This arrangement provides a balance of community and solitude.
Clean facilities and amenities: Visitors to Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake appreciate the well-maintained facilities. One reviewer states, "The roads are paved throughout, but the campsites are gravel. The roads are great for bike riding and walking. Sites have electricity and water. Bath houses are older but clean." Another notes, "A big draw for me is the scenery on the lake and the lack of mosquitoes."
Waterfront sites with varied terrain: Many campgrounds offer direct lake access. A Hamilton Branch visitor reports, "Every site is waterfront and most of them are well shaded." At Petersburg, a camper mentions, "Access to sites are easy. Almost all are pull through. They're also pretty well spaced out for privacy and plenty of space for each site."
What you should know
Lake water levels fluctuate seasonally: Water levels at Strom Thurmond Lake vary throughout the year, affecting shoreline access. A camper at Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground shares this general area insight: "When the water is low like it was when I was here, the lake water was not accessible -- you'd have to trudge through 50 fifty feet of mud to get to it."
Wildlife encounters are common: The natural setting attracts various wildlife species. A Modoc camper reports, "Wildlife live in the woods around the sites. I've seen deer, a bobcat, and various water fowl." At Hamilton Branch, a visitor mentions, "There was lots of deer and made the hike to the bathroom worth it for us."
Insects and terrain considerations: Bug activity varies by location and season. One camper reviewing Mistletoe State Park's backcountry sites warns, "All of these sites are in the forest and I'm sure it is quite buggy almost always, so be prepared with thermacells, bug nets, etc." Another advises bringing water shoes for navigating muddy shorelines when lake levels are low.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options with restrictions: While many campgrounds welcome pets, rules vary by location. A Modoc visitor notes, "Dogs aren't allowed on beach area but we found our own great spot within the park that allowed them to swim and cool off with us!" Research pet policies before arrival, especially regarding swimming areas.
Playground access: For families with children, Heritage RV Park offers limited activities. One reviewer cautions, "There were also no fire pits or communal areas / playgrounds, so it was difficult to keep our toddler entertained." By contrast, Made in the Shade includes "nice playground and horseshoes area as well!"
Family-oriented amenities: Mistletoe State Park offers family-friendly services. A camper mentions, "Free fishing pole for kids." Another highlights the park's store, noting it sells "souvenirs, ice, firewood, worms for fishing," making it convenient for families who forget essential items.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Petersburg, one RVer advises, "Some of the sites are stellar," while another cautions, "We did not end up with a great site. It was on the water but the view was not great. I feel ridiculous saying that there were too many trees but they were all along the edge and completely blocked the view of the lake."
Technical hookup details: RVers at Made in the Shade appreciate the reliable utilities. One notes, "Our 50 Amp site was level and spacious," while another mentions, "Wifi was excellent and we could stream Netflix and Hulu. Great Verizon cell service." This information helps RVers plan for connectivity needs during their stay.
RV site surface considerations: Heritage RV Park features various site surfaces. An RVer comments, "The pads for the back in smaller campers were sandy with a concrete pad next to it. The sand was impossible to keep out of the RV and we continuously had to sweep." Site surface quality can significantly impact the camping experience, especially for longer stays.
