Within J. Strom Thurmond Recreation Area, West Dam operates as an Army Corps of Engineers campground that requires advance planning due to rough access conditions. The forested sites include electric and water hookups, making this a full-service option despite the challenging approach road. Campers can fish and swim in the nearby lake, though pets are not permitted on the property.
The $125 fee reflects the hookup amenities and lakeside location within the federal recreation area. For campers seeking alternatives with potentially easier access, Below Dam South Carolina sits less than a mile away.
Description
Overview
West Dam Recreation Area is one of the most popular parks on J. Strom Thurmond Lake. With 70,000 acres of surface-area and 1,000+ miles of shoreline, J. Strom Thurmond Lake provides excellent boating, water skiing, swimming, fishing, hiking and picnicking opportunities.
Recreation
Thurmond Lake provides some of the best fishing, hunting, and water sports in the southeastern US. Anglers fish for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish and striped bass. The large lake offers endless boating, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing and swimming opportunities. Hikers have access to many miles of trails in the area. The 1.8-mile Lake Springs Loop and the 27-mile Bartram Trail, which meanders along the scenic shoreline and through Wildwood Park, are nearby. Shorter sections can be hiked from several intersecting trailheads.
Facilities
West Dam Recreation Area is a wooded day-use area with several mini picnic shelters accommodating up to six people each. One large shelter for up to 68 people is available as well. Amenities include flush toilets, drinking water, a playground, beach and hiking trail.
Natural Features
Hot, humid summers and mild, pleasant winters characterize this heavily wooded area on the shore of Thurmond Lake. A mixed pine and hardwood forest covers the site, providing summer shade and fall color. Elevation is 335' above sea level. Wildlife is abundant around the lake. Visitors regularly see southern bald eagles, migratory waterfowl, wild turkeys and whitetail deer.
Nearby Attractions
Numerous parks and recreation areas lie around Thurmond Lake, providing additional boating, swimming, hunting and hiking opportunities. Nearby cities house museums, art galleries, zoos, restaurants and shopping areas. The Augusta National Golf Club hosts the Masters Golf Tournament annually the first week of April.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundWest Dam is located in Georgia
Directions
From Clarks Hill, SC, west on US 221, go across Thurmond Dam; area is on the Georgia side of the dam.
Address
3946 WEST DAM PARK RD
Appling, GA 30802
Coordinates
33.6608333 N
82.1997222 W
Connectivity
T-MobileLTESome Coverage
Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Electric Hookups
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
