Cabin camping near Aiken, South Carolina provides access to Clarks Hill Reservoir, known locally as Strom Thurmond Lake, which spans 71,000 acres with 1,200 miles of shoreline. The lake region typically experiences mild winters with daytime temperatures in the 50s-60s°F and hot summers reaching into the 90s. Most cabin accommodations require 2-7 day advance reservations depending on the season and availability.
What to do
Water activities at Elijah Clark State Park: Visitors access multiple boating options with "feet from the water, spacious" waterfront sites. "Great site 49, awesome views. Comfort stations close and clean. Lots of water activities," notes one Mistletoe State Park camper.
Fishing options: Many cabins offer direct lake access or nearby fishing piers. At Hickory Knob State Park, "our site was for the most part level with a bonus little cove by the lake water for sitting and swimming." The park also offers boat rentals for fishing excursions.
Hiking trails: Several parks feature trail systems ranging from easy walks to more challenging terrain. At Magnolia Springs, campers can participate in "a hike with the park manager where she told us about the animals in the park and even let us feel grey fox and beaver pelts. We saw vultures and an armadillo."
What campers like
Private waterfront access: Sites with water views consistently rank highest in reviews. "Love the big selection of waterfront sites," reports a visitor to Elijah Clark State Park. Another notes the "water access at sites #2 & #4 is nice but it is not a real beach — it is all large rocks for the most part."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained comfort stations feature prominently in positive reviews. A visitor to Barnwell State Park mentioned "the ranger was super sweet and helpful. We enjoyed the trails, and they were nice and easy to get through and just long enough to feel like you got a bit of hiking in."
Quiet settings: Many cabin renters appreciate the peaceful environment. "Beautiful place to stay. Great shower houses and beautiful place to stay. Went fishing in the lake. Very nice people around," noted one Cedar Pond Campground visitor.
What you should know
Cabin types vary significantly: Some cabins offer basic accommodations while others include full amenities. At Hickory Knob, "Each site is apportioned with the basics - long drive-way with corresponding flat platform, fire ring, water spigot and picnic table."
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Pointes West Army Resort, military ID is required for access. "As of 3 August 2020, Primitive Camping and Semi-Hookup Camping areas are closed at Pointes West. RV Camping is open, for local traffic only."
Wildlife considerations: Many cabins are located in areas with active wildlife. "There are several signs posted for alligators and bears. I didn't put a lot of stock into the bear signs due to the fact that none of the garbage cans or anything were 'bear-proof'. We did finally see one gator as we walked by the spring one of the days."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer organized programs specifically for children. "We participated in a hike with the park manager where she told us about the animals in the park and even let us feel grey fox and beaver pelts...finished with hot chocolate and roasting marshmallows!" reports a Magnolia Springs visitor.
Swimming options: Many cabins have nearby swimming areas, though conditions vary by location. "The beach and boating facilities were very nice. The playgrounds were still closed off due to Con-19. We saw lots of wild life, lots of stars at night."
Rental equipment: Most parks offer equipment rentals for families without their own gear. "They offer rentals for John boats, paddle boats, and kayaks for a very reasonable cost. We rented two paddle boats and had a blast (it was exhausting though)."
Tips for RVers
Site accessibility: Some cabin areas also accommodate RVs, but access can be challenging at certain locations. A visitor noted, "Site 16 was awful to get into. Two trees are only about 10 feet apart and once you clear those you have to jackknife and nearly scrape your tow vehicle on a tree just to get close enough to the utility pedestals."
Utility connections: Where cabins and RV sites coexist, utility options vary. "We were able to park our 44 ft. Fifth wheel with ease with little assistance from a park host. The only reason why I didn't give a 5 star was because we were very close to neighbors."
Seasonal considerations: Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting some sites. "When I was here in September, the water level was extremely low and nothing was flowing beyond a trickle. Water in the streams was mostly still and quite murky."
