Bussey Point Wilderness Area offers primitive camping for horse enthusiasts along Strom Thurmond Lake, 25 miles from Abbeville, South Carolina. The area sits within the Sumter National Forest region at approximately 330 feet elevation, with a moderate southeastern climate featuring hot summers and mild winters. Campsites provide direct waterfront access with natural shorelines suitable for both horses and riders.
What to do
Trail riding on horseback: The 12-mile trail system at Bussey Point Wilderness Area offers varied terrain for equestrians. "This is a no frills campground. If you are looking for luxurious amenities, and a pristine restroom facility, this is not the place for you. Bussey Point is primitive camping at it's best," notes camper Big D.
Fishing at Lake Thurmond: Cast your line directly from waterfront sites at Plum Branch RV Park, located near the lake. "This campground is very quiet and right near the water. I enjoyed it and would stay again," shares reviewer Robins662.
Paddling and swimming: Water activities are popular at Wildwood County Park, which offers kayak and paddleboard rentals. "Great beach area, great playground for kids. Kayak & paddleboard rentals. Decent pricing for campsites," reports camper David H.
Hiking local trails: At Brick House Campground, numerous hiking trails connect to the camping area. "Spent new years at site 16 and it was a little damp due to a heavy rain but a great site. Mostly away from everyone and was right next to a 9 mile loop hiking trail," shares Jacob L.
What campers like
Direct lake access: Many equestrian campers appreciate the waterfront locations. "The campsites are right on the water and the view is beautiful. 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," notes Cody S.
Peaceful environment: The remote setting provides tranquility not found at larger campgrounds. "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," says Josh R.
Scenic water views: South Cove County Park provides exceptional lake views from most sites. "You have water on all sides," explains Diana H., while another reviewer notes "there appeared to be beautiful lake views from almost every site."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being primitive, campers report that basic facilities are kept clean. "Bathhouse was clean. Trails were pleasant and the bridge and falls were awesome," reports Swain K. from Watson Mill Bridge State Park.
What you should know
Reservation system: Bussey Point now requires advance booking. "Campground rates are $10 per night and reservations must be made now through recreation.gov. All sites are waterfront On Clark Hill Lake(Strom Thurmond Lake)," advises Linda A.
Horse-focused environment: The campground primarily serves equestrians. Expect horse droppings on trails and in common areas, as Big D. mentions: "watch out for the horse poop!"
Limited amenities: Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground offers more facilities than Bussey Point but still maintains a rustic feel. "The sites are shaded, and flat with a gravel drive and tent pad," notes Lee D., who adds that "a nice perk was laundry facilities outside the restrooms."
Pack-in, pack-out required: No trash service exists at many primitive sites. Linda A. advises: "If you pack it on, pack it out. There is no trash pickup provided."
Tips for camping with families
Check water conditions: Waterfront sites can vary in quality. "We stayed at site #4. Plenty of room to spread out! It has a fallen tree and lots of underwater sticks right when you walk out on the lake so watch your toes!" warns Claire M. at Bussey Point.
Bring extra water: Limited water facilities mean planning ahead, especially at primitive sites. "The closest water is 5 or 6 miles in either direction, so pack plenty," advises richardhoerz from Brick House Campground.
Consider weather impacts: Many primitive sites don't handle rain well. "If rain is in the forecast, probably would not want to stay," notes Nancy L. about pioneer sites at Watson Mill Bridge State Park.
Look for playgrounds: Some nearby parks offer kid-friendly amenities. "We loved this campground! Perfect for kids, right on the lake. Loved the playground," shares Roxy M. about South Cove County Park.
Tips from RVers
Check site specifications: RV sites vary greatly in quality and accommodations. "Still being upgraded, so newish pad was still soft but pretty level. Sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches. Electric posts are new but have a meter right below plugs, so surge suppressor gets to hang sideways," explains Kevin H. at Plum Branch RV Park.
Test connectivity options: Cell service can be spotty. "Phone service with ATT and Sprint/T-Mobile is non existent at the campsite. 200 yards uphill at bathhouse service is available," notes Nancy L.
Consider pull-through options: Several campgrounds near Abbeville offer easier access. "Very well taken care of campground. Vault toilet was clean. There are a couple pull-through spots," shares Allyse from Brick House Campground.
Mind overnight access: Some parks restrict late returns. "The campground has a gate that gets locked at 10 pm. You can leave but you can't come back into the campground after the gate gets locked," advises Amanda W.
