Lake Thurmond and Lake Hartwell dominate the recreational landscape around Calhoun Falls, South Carolina. The region sits at approximately 435 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures regularly reaching 90°F between June and August. Campsites throughout the area offer varying levels of shade, with those near water often featuring minimal tree cover but maximum lake access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Big Water Marina & RV Park offers boat rentals along with paddle boards and kayaks for water enthusiasts. "We love this spot. Most of the camp spots are not shaded, but right on the water. Boat rentals are available as well as paddle boards and kayaks," notes camper Sarah P.
Lake activities: Families can enjoy swimming and beach access at several campgrounds. One camper at Big Water Marina mentioned, "My family and I enjoyed camping on the beach here by the lake. The campground had a lot to offer. There was a restaurant/bar, playground, Marina, stage with live bands."
Hiking nearby: The region features multiple trails within driving distance of rv sites near Calhoun Falls, South Carolina. "We enjoyed being on the top of the mountain by ourselves, sipping coffee and hot chocolate. The leaves and trees were beautiful, changing back to green and getting ready for the summertime. Beautiful flowers were blooming," writes a camper who explored hiking trails while staying at Thousand Trails Carolina Landing.
What campers like
Lake access: The Point at Lake Hartwell offers direct lake access with boat facilities. "They offer a decent area for boat parking & the boat ramp/dock to access beautiful Lake Hartwell was ok!" reports one camper who brought their boat.
Social events: Many parks organize activities, especially during holidays. A visitor to The Point noted, "They had Karaoke & Potluck night while we were there!" Another camper at Pointes West Army Resort mentioned enjoying the "4th of July Stay" with family and pets.
Quiet atmosphere: Despite being popular destinations, several campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. A camper at The Point described it as a "great carefree, quiet and peaceful place to stay!!" while another at Pointes West Army Resort appreciated that "two of those times we had the place to ourselves. Sites L, M, and N are all on a little peninsula that sticks out into Clarks Hill Lake, and are our personal favorites!"
What you should know
Site conditions: Leveling can be challenging at some rv sites near Calhoun Falls, South Carolina. A camper at Plum Branch RV Park noted, "Newish pad was still soft but pretty level. Sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches."
Cell service variations: Internet and phone coverage varies significantly by provider. A detailed report from Plum Branch RV Park shows: "Cricket: 7.98dn, 0.84up; ATT: 27.69, 0.3 up; Visible: 7.2dn, 1.2up; Verizon: 44.9dn, 1.88 up; T-mobile mifi: no 4G nor 5G service."
Seasonal crowds: Many campgrounds experience significantly different atmospheres depending on when you visit. One camper at Carolina Landing mentioned visiting "over the 4th of July weekend and they had all sorts of activities going on. Bingo, parade, fireworks, hotdogs and more!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hoppin Horse Farm RV site offers a unique setting on a working horse farm. "This property boasts comforting and calm energy, with perfect spaces for your RV. Enjoy your private fire-ring and take in a gorgeous sunset," notes a reviewer.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas or pools. A family staying at Big Water Marina wrote, "My kids had so much fun and can't wait to go camping here again."
Safety considerations: Some lake areas have steep access points or challenging boat launches. A Pointes West Army Resort camper advised, "We stayed in the primitive camping area with our adventure trailer. Right on the water, it was a great site. Ants can be a huge problem though during the summer."
Tips from RVers
Navigating tight spots: Many RVers mention challenges with site size and access. A Carolina Landing visitor cautioned, "The sites are very close together throughout most of the park. The park also has lots of hills which can be a challenge for some RVs. There are also some very tight turns on these hills."
Utilities and hookups: Water pressure and electrical service vary widely between campgrounds. An RVer at Carolina Landing reported, "We are under a WiFi pole and have good signal and usable internet. It was actually worth paying for."
Site selection strategies: Experienced RVers recommend specific areas at certain campgrounds. One visitor to Carolina Landing warned, "When you enter the park make sure you stay to the left of the sign. We made the mistake of going straight our first time at this park and almost lost our 5th wheel at the turn around by the lake."
