Bussey Point Wilderness Area offers 12 miles of equestrian trails through the peninsula with water access for horses at most sites. The primitive camping area operates on a reservation system through Recreation.gov, with each site costing $10 per night. Riders can access remote areas via connecting trails while enjoying the area's abundant wildlife in a natural, off-grid setting.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The 12-mile trail system at Bussey Point Wilderness Area accommodates various riding experiences. According to one camper, "This is my favorite spot for taking it in, and getting back to nature. Bussey Point is primitive camping at it's best. Btw, watch out for the horse poop!"
Fishing and boating: Wildwood County Park provides excellent lake access for fishing and water activities. One visitor noted, "We stayed on site 15 across from the boat ramps. Nice swim area, one bath house, good price. Park has great boating access. Quiet cove area."
Historical exploration: A.H. Stephens State Park offers educational opportunities about Civil War history. A camper reported, "Park is the home of the VP of the Confederacy and features his home and Civil War artifacts. About an hour to Augusta, GA, via interstate, lots of shopping and restaurants."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campers appreciate the direct lake access at Wildwood County Park. A reviewer shared, "They have lots of sites right on the water many with your very own mini beach an you can bring your boat up to as well."
Peace and seclusion: The quiet nature of Bussey Point appeals to those seeking solitude. One camper mentioned, "Over the weekend I was the only one here and the only person I spoke to was the volunteer Camp Ranger from the US Army Corps of Engineers."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting at Coleman Lake Campground provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. A visitor noted, "Very quiet and the owner is very friendly and accommodating. There is a free boat ramp into Coleman Lake for registered guests."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds in the area now require advance booking. A Bussey Point camper noted, "Campground rates are $10 per night and reservations must be made now through recreation.gov. All sites are waterfront On Clark Hill Lake."
Pack-in, pack-out policy: No trash service exists at most primitive horse camping areas. One reviewer emphasized, "If you pack it on, pack it out. There is no trash pickup provided."
Primitive facilities: Plum Branch RV Park offers basic amenities near the water. A camper reported, "If I we're staying in the area for more than a week, I would probably try a nearby COE as they are on the water. This park is near the water and has a restaurant an few hundred yards down the road."
Tips for camping with families
Beach areas for children: Some campgrounds offer designated swimming spots. At Wildwood Park, a camper mentioned, "Awesome beach area, great playground for kids. Kayak & paddleboard rentals. Decent pricing for campsites."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy the natural surroundings and animal sightings. A visitor to Bussey Point observed, "Clean camp sites. Abundance of wildlife. The out houses & vault toilets are in good shape. This park is always quiet and offers plenty of privacy."
Consider site location: At In The Pines RV Park, site selection matters for family comfort. Choose sites with adequate space for children to play while maintaining supervision distance from water features.
Tips from RVers
Site specifics matter: Carefully review site dimensions when booking. A camper at Wildwood Park reported, "Site 38 was large enough and had big, flat, surface for the picnic table, fire ring, camper, and truck. Beyond this pad there was not much distance before you got to the next site."
Accessibility considerations: Some sites offer better accessibility than others. At A.H. Stephens, a camper noted, "Site 9 (handicapped site) was perfect for the grandparents as there was a short paved walkway straight to the bath house. Both sites were nicely graveled and level."
Seasonal weather preparation: Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Augusta region. A Wildwood Park visitor shared, "The weather was very cold and moving to a true waterfront lot made going outside something only for the brave! It was 40 degrees with 60 mph wind gusts that day."
