Camping opportunities near North Augusta, South Carolina center around the 71,000-acre J. Strom Thurmond Lake, with elevations ranging from 330 to 380 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally, typically from April through September when water temperatures reach 70-85°F. Weather patterns create distinct camping experiences, with spring offering cooler temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the humid summer months.
What to do
Hiking near water access: Ridge Road Campground provides direct access to shoreline trails with easy connections to swimming areas. "All sites are wooded" and "some sites have nice lake views," according to Jesse D., making it convenient to combine hiking with water activities without moving your vehicle.
Mountain biking adventures: Petersburg Campground connects directly to the Bartram Trail. "Mountain bike trails in either direction just at the park entrance," notes Christina, who stayed for 7 nights and "could have stayed a month." The multi-use trail system offers moderate terrain suitable for intermediate riders.
Fishing from shore: Modoc Campground offers productive bank fishing areas directly accessible from many campsites. "Fishing, boating, and swimming can be enjoyed here," explains a camper named PattieL, who also mentioned that the "lack of mosquitoes" makes fishing more comfortable compared to other regional lakes.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Hamilton Branch State Park provides consistent wildlife encounters, particularly deer. "We saw lots of deer and made the hike to the bathroom worth it for us," reports Tracy F., who appreciated these natural interactions during their stay.
Privacy between sites: Many campers specifically mention the spacing between sites at Petersburg Campground. "Sites had water, electric, concrete table, fire ring, and lantern hook. Not much barrier between sites but sites were good size just open," notes Rachel G., highlighting the balance between openness and space.
Clean facilities: Mistletoe State Park maintains above-average cleanliness standards. "Great site 49, awesome views. Comfort stations close and clean. Lots of water activities," states Stephanie K., reflecting the attention to maintenance that enhances the camping experience.
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels at Hamilton Branch State Park vary significantly throughout the year, affecting water access. "The water was low during our trip so the immediate shoreline was a bit squishy going through the damp clay. I'd recommend water shoes," advises Sarah, who camped there in 2024.
Maintenance standards vary: Petersburg Campground has experienced maintenance changes. "What I noticed on my most recent trip is that the quality of maintenance has declined. The restrooms on our loop weren't really cleaned deeply over our 4 night stay," reported Todd C., suggesting campers should check recent reviews.
Site selection matters: At Mistletoe State Park, some sites offer significantly better experiences than others. "If you hike the trail from the Mistletoe parking lot counter-clockwise, site #1 is about 2.8 miles in, site #2 about 4.1 miles in, and site #3 about 4.8 miles in," notes Andy S., highlighting the importance of researching specific site locations before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming options: Modoc Campground offers designated swimming areas that are more suitable for children than other lakefront options. "Dogs aren't allowed on beach area but we found our own great spot within the park that allowed them to swim and cool off with us!" shares Laura Z., noting the flexibility for finding kid-friendly swimming spots.
Playground access: Mistletoe State Park provides playground facilities, though availability may vary. "The playgrounds were still closed off due to Con-19," mentioned Chad H. during his stay, suggesting families check current status before promising playground time to children.
Kid-friendly fishing: Petersburg Campground offers shore fishing accessible to children. "So many great campsites and so many of them waterfront! Well maintained. Excellent gatehouse staff. Good hiking and boat launch," reports Sue B., who found the fishing opportunities suitable for younger anglers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Ridge Road Campground requires attention to site selection for larger RVs. "Our site (19) is quite large and very level (after the entry driveway): plenty of room for the coach and at least 2 other vehicles," explains Carrie G., indicating that driveways may have inclines before reaching the level pad.
Electric service reliability: For campers requiring stable power, Petersburg Campground offers consistent electrical service. "Hookups are well maintained as are the roads and trailer parking areas," according to Alex C., who found the infrastructure reliable for RV needs.
Surface considerations: Heritage RV Park provides different pad surfaces depending on site location. "The pads for the back in smaller campers were sandy with a concrete pad next to it. The sand was impossible to keep out of the RV and we continuously had to sweep," shares Andrew L., suggesting RVers bring additional mats or ground covers.
