Clarks Hill, South Carolina sits alongside J. Strom Thurmond Lake, a 71,000-acre reservoir created in the 1950s when the Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Savannah River. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F, while winters remain relatively mild with occasional frost. Most campgrounds in the region sit at elevations between 300-400 feet above sea level, providing lake access through gradually sloping shorelines.
What to do
Kayaking from your campsite: At Hamilton Branch State Park Campground, nearly every site offers water access. "The site is right on the lake with a wide trail leading directly to the water. 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," notes Sarah from a 2024 visit.
Mountain biking on Bartram Trail: Access this popular trail directly from Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake campground. "Large spread out campground so could bike and hike right in and from the park. Mountain bike trails in either direction just at the park entrance," writes Christina in her review, highlighting the convenience for cyclists.
Geocaching adventures: Hamilton Branch State Park offers family-friendly geocaching opportunities throughout the park. "Plenty of activities for kids and adults alike, including geocaching," reports Kim H., making this an engaging option for those wanting structured outdoor activities.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise the privacy at Pointes West Army Resort. "Sites L, M, and N are all on a little peninsula that sticks out into Clarks Hill Lake, and are our personal favorites!" shares Jason L., highlighting specific locations worth requesting when making reservations.
Spacious camping areas: Hamilton Branch provides generous spacing between sites. "The sites were far enough apart to provide privacy. This is my favorite park in the SC park system," explains Patrick R., emphasizing how the layout enhances the camping experience.
Dark night skies for stargazing: Petersburg Campground offers excellent evening astronomical viewing. "Dark starry night skies," writes Christine, noting this as one of the many features that made her experience at this Army Corps of Engineers campground perfect.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels fluctuate: Water access can change dramatically throughout the year. "Didn't realize water level was down. Didn't affect the views but trodding the mud to get to the water made kayaking a little challenging," reports Chris C. at Hamilton Branch State Park in September 2024.
Ant prevention necessary: Multiple campgrounds in the area report ant issues, especially during summer months. "Prepare your site for ants they will get into everything if not," warns Swain K. about Hamilton Branch State Park, suggesting campers bring appropriate deterrents.
Varying cell service quality: Many campgrounds have spotty coverage. At Plum Branch RV Park, Kevin H. reports: "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."
Security protocols vary by campground: Some locations implement strict access controls. According to Scott M., "As of 3 August 2020, Primitive Camping and Semi-Hookup (Electric Only) Camping areas are closed at Pointes West. RV Camping is open, for local traffic only. RVs must contain a restroom. No visitors."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Hamilton Branch offers dedicated play areas for children. Bill C. mentions, "A playground for the kiddos is also here and fun per the kids," making this state park a good choice for families with younger children.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas. Bobby J. notes that at Pointes West Army Resort, "Our dogs loved the water," indicating accessible shorelines suitable for wading and swimming during summer months.
Bicycle-friendly campgrounds: Carolina Hill Mobile Home and RV Park offers flat terrain for cycling. "If you walk around the park four times, you have walked a mile," mentions Bobbie S., suggesting an easily navigable layout ideal for children learning to ride.
Look for shaded sites in summer: Tree cover significantly impacts comfort during hot months. "The shade provided by the trees was a welcome respite from the summer heat," reports Sarah about her Hamilton Branch stay, emphasizing the importance of selecting sites with adequate coverage.
Tips from RVers
Site surface composition varies: RV camping near Clarks Hill, South Carolina offers diverse pad materials. At Heritage RV Park, Andrew L. notes, "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."
Fire regulations differ between parks: Not all campgrounds permit open fires. "Note that there are no fire pits and campfires allowed," warns Nancy W. about Heritage RV Park, a critical consideration for RVers planning evening campfires.
Sewer connection heights can present challenges: At Plum Branch RV Park, Kevin H. observes, "Sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches," highlighting the need for proper sewer hose support equipment.
Electrical post configurations: Some parks have unusual electrical pedestal setups. Kevin H. also mentions at Plum Branch, "Electric posts are new but have a meter right below plugs, so surge suppressor gets to hang sideways," suggesting RVers bring extension cords or adapters to accommodate unusual hookup configurations.
