Glamping in Clemson, South Carolina combines the beauty of Lake Hartwell's 962 miles of shoreline with the convenience of premium outdoor accommodations. Most options sit between 700-800 feet in elevation, providing moderate temperatures that average 50-60°F in winter months and 70-85°F during peak summer season. Spring and fall glamping offer the most comfortable weather conditions with fewer insects than traditional tent camping.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Keowee: Keowee-Toxaway State Park provides easy access to crystal clear waters perfect for swimming, paddling and fishing. As one camper noted, "The lake is fairly clean. Very relaxing atmosphere. Easy access." Visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards directly at the lake.
Hiking expeditions: Tallulah Gorge State Park offers challenging but rewarding trails descending into the gorge. "A ton of waterfalls. A very pretty gorge, you will walk up and down lots of stairs!" wrote one hiker. The suspension bridge trail provides spectacular waterfall views that can be accessed directly from camp.
Stargazing opportunities: Dark skies at Oconee State Park make for excellent star viewing. "Lots of stars at night," mentioned a camper who stayed at nearby Tugaloo. Bring binoculars or a telescope during new moon periods for the best viewing experience.
What campers like
Lake access from campsites: South Cove County Park sits on a peninsula with water views from nearly every site. "Almost every site is on the water, and those that aren't, have a water view," shared one visitor. Many sites allow direct water entry for swimming or launching small watercraft.
Clean facilities: Table Rock State Park maintains exceptionally well-kept amenities. A camper reported, "The park has good to excellent facilities and is well maintained. In the park, you can swim, hike, camp, fish and kayak." Bathhouses at most glamping locations include hot showers and laundry facilities.
Level sites: Springfield - Hartwell Lake offers premium level sites that require minimal setup work. "Large and level campsites. Quiet. Beautiful lake views," one reviewer mentioned. Most glamping platforms include wooden decks that stay dry even during heavy rain.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings heavy lake traffic at Tugaloo State Park. "Lots of boats on the lake in summer but there is awesome beach access from the campsites," noted a visitor. Book weekday stays during July-August to avoid crowds.
Wildlife awareness: Several parks report wildlife encounters including geese issues. At South Cove, a camper warned: "Don't feed the geese! The campers next to us fed them and the next day we woke up with goose poop on everything! Including the picnic table!"
Gate hours: Some campgrounds enforce strict entry times. According to one camper, "The campground has a gate that gets locked at 10 pm. You can leave but you can't come back into the campground after the gate gets locked." Confirm access policies when booking your glamping stay.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beaches: Sadlers Creek State Park offers designated swimming areas with gradual entry points. "Really enjoyed the lakefront campsites. Our campsite was very easy to haul the kayaks to the beach from and very private also," shared a visitor. The beach areas include picnic tables and shade structures.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature updated play equipment. "There are several large play areas in walking distance," mentioned a South Cove visitor. Many glamping sites position accommodation units within viewing distance of play areas.
Activity rentals: Most lakeside parks offer equipment for family fun. "The campground also offers paddle board and kayak rentals," noted a South Cove camper. Rental prices typically range from $15-30 per hour depending on equipment type.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Hart State Outdoor Recreation Area provides spacious pull-through sites that accommodate larger rigs. "I walked the campground and there doesn't seem to be a bad spot. The views are magnificent," reported a visitor. Premium sites include concrete pads measuring at least 60 feet in length.
Connectivity concerns: Cell service varies significantly between locations. One camper at Hart State noted: "Would've have given 5 stars if I'd had Internet service. I have Verizon. Could only call and text." Some glamping providers offer WiFi hotspots as add-on rentals.
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds require significant leveling equipment. "Needed to slightly block up rear of our class A to get level," shared one RVer at Sadlers Creek. Many glamping platforms eliminate this concern with pre-leveled permanent foundations.
