Lake Hartwell dominates the camping landscape near Belton, South Carolina, with most sites positioned along its extensive shoreline. Campgrounds in the region sit at elevations between 660-690 feet, experiencing typical Piedmont climate patterns with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The lake's red clay shorelines create distinctive beach areas at many campsites, with water levels fluctuating seasonally up to 10 feet depending on rainfall and dam operations.
What to do
Paddling access points: Twin Lakes campground provides excellent kayaking opportunities with gradual shoreline entry. "We started camping last year and have been to a lot of campgrounds all around lake Hartwell and Twin Lakes for us was the best one. We love it. We have a boat and get the same site every time," notes James S. about the Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell boating setup.
Biking routes: Paved roads throughout Tugaloo State Park create cycling-friendly terrain for all ages. "Love the feel of this campground. Living in the forest," reports Christina at Table Rock State Park Campground, where "fabulous solid hiking including waterfalls and biking even around the park's roads" offers varied terrain options.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated swimming areas with sand beaches. At Sadlers Creek, one visitor reported: "We swam almost all day every day we were here. The lake is beautiful, there are plenty of places to swim, and tons of shoreline to explore. The playground is very nice."
What campers like
Spacious lakefront sites: Coneross Park offers terraced camping areas with direct lake access. "Spacious sites, terraced to the water, wooded, quiet and inexpensive. What more do you need?" observes Ron K. about Coneross Park Campground. The campground features 105 sites with many offering personal water access.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the separation between camping spots at Springfield campground. "The sites are big, with trees in between most sites. Most sites are a stones throw away from the lake. The view Lake Hartwell is Beautiful," writes Melissa W. about Springfield - Hartwell Lake.
On-site brewery access: Golden Grove Farm and Brew provides a unique camping experience with an adjacent brewery. "We stopped here on a rainy night after a concert and the owners were so accommodating!! Very grateful for the last minute stay," reports Rebecca S., while another camper noted "arrived around 2 - had live music at 7 so went to get drinks & dinner. had the MOST incredible time."
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Lake Hartwell's water level can drop significantly during drought periods, affecting shoreline access. At Oconee Point, "needed to buy a ladder to reach the water from our site" reports one camper, indicating the sometimes steep shoreline drop-offs.
Limited amenities at some sites: Many Lake Hartwell campgrounds lack full hookups. "Not full hook up sites very level most sites on water," notes Lee A. about Springfield campground, while another visitor at Oconee Point clarifies: "There is no camp store, however a Dollar General is about five miles away."
Reservation requirements: Popular waterfront sites book quickly, especially during summer months. "The best spots are hard to get unless you reserve way ahead of time," explains John R. about Twin Lakes campground. Similarly, at Tugaloo State Park: "It's very popular in summer and reservations are necessary."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Sadlers Creek features a maintained beach area with adjacent playgrounds. "A huge well maintained beach and two playgrounds for the little ones. A very popular park," notes Jim J. about Sadlers Creek State Park Campground.
Bicycle-friendly roads: Calhoun Falls offers paved camping loops ideal for children learning to ride. "The loops are paved which is great for bicycles," writes Jess B., who also warns about one minor nuisance: "Everything was great about our site, except the ants!"
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds maintain playground equipment near beach areas. "The playground is very nice. The bathrooms, especially the ones by the office, are kept very clean," reports Jen G. about Sadlers Creek, though noting comfort challenges: "Our campsite didn't have a tent pad (not disclosed on the website) and it was all gravel."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Many campsites require significant leveling due to terrain. "Nice level sites clean bath house not full hook up," reports Lee A. about Springfield, while at Paris Mountain, one camper noted: "Would not stay again because we were so unlevel our refrigerator wouldn't work."
Road access limitations: Some campground roads present challenges for larger rigs. "The road through the park back to the campground is pretty narrow at some points," warns a reviewer at Paris Mountain State Park Campground, adding "we don't know how we would have managed if we had met another RV!"
Site selection strategies: Careful research helps secure suitable RV sites. At Twin Lakes, Thomas A. advises: "I would recommend this park with the caveat of doing site research ahead of time," noting significant differences between camping loops, with "sites 3-24 are much more to our liking with regards to elbow room and privacy."
