Lake Hartwell defines the landscape around Fair Play, South Carolina, offering over 962 miles of shoreline across 56,000 acres of water. The area sits at approximately 660 feet above sea level with mild winters allowing year-round camping access. Most lakefront campsites require reservation several months in advance during peak summer season when daytime temperatures typically range from 85-95°F.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Hartwell: Visitors at Springfield - Hartwell Lake can enjoy easy water access with many sites featuring small beaches. "I believe every site is lake front. The view of the lake is amazing and perfect. Some sites have little beaches for access to the water," notes a camper. Paddle boarding and kayaking are popular, with rental options available at several marinas.
Hiking the gorge trails: The hiking trails at Tallulah Gorge State Park offer challenging terrain with significant elevation changes. "The hiking is fun but intense. Be prepared for lots of stairs, a bridge over the water, and rock hopping across the water," shares one visitor. The stairs leading down to the suspension bridge total 1,099 steps round-trip, requiring moderate fitness levels.
Fishing spots: Many campsites at South Cove County Park offer direct lake access for fishing. One visitor notes, "Great campground with great hosts and great fishing. Beautiful lake with crystal clear water." Spring and fall months typically yield better catches of bass, crappie and catfish.
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Campers at Tugaloo State Park Campground appreciate the water proximity. "Lots of boats on the lake in summer but there is awesome beach access from the campsites. Great spot for summer!" says one reviewer. The lakefront sites allow kayaking directly from your campsite and offer cooling breezes during hot months.
Clean facilities: The bathhouses at many area campgrounds receive positive feedback. A camper at Tallulah Gorge State Park mentioned, "The restrooms were clean, the showers were clean, and all the people we came across were so friendly." Many campgrounds feature recently renovated facilities with hot water and good water pressure.
Spacious sites: Campers value the room to spread out. As one Springfield - Hartwell Lake visitor mentioned, "The sites are big, with trees in between most sites. Most sites are a stones throw away from the lake." This space allows for comfortable camping setups without feeling crowded by neighbors.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most popular lakefront sites book months in advance, particularly for summer weekends and holidays. Some parks like Sadlers Creek State Park Campground offer both reservation and walk-up options but with limited availability.
Terrain challenges: Some campsites require preparation for uneven ground. At Oconee State Park, a camper noted, "Campsites are often uneven with alot of tree roots running throughout. It does require consideration before parking your trailer or RV." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended.
Wildlife awareness: While seeing wildlife adds to the camping experience, precautions are necessary. "There were warning signs for bears, but we saw no trace of them," mentioned a camper at Oconee State Park. Some campgrounds also report issues with geese, as one visitor to South Cove County Park 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!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Oconee State Park Campground offers multiple playgrounds within walking distance of campsites. A visitor notes, "The playground is very nice. The bathrooms, especially the ones by the office, are kept very clean." These play areas provide entertainment for children between hiking or water activities.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature dedicated swimming areas. "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," shares a Sadlers Creek visitor. Swimming beaches typically open Memorial Day through Labor Day with no lifeguards present.
Bicycle-friendly paths: Many campgrounds have paved or packed gravel roads ideal for children learning to ride. A visitor to Tallulah Gorge State Park observed, "It was nice to see kids riding bikes and running outside." Bringing bikes allows for easy exploration of larger campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Most campgrounds offer dump stations rather than full hookups. A Springfield - Hartwell Lake visitor noted, "There is no hook ups for sewer. But there is a dump station." Some parks like Tugaloo offer convenient access: "No sites with sewer, but dump station has two receptacles so there was no wait to dump tanks on way out."
Power options: Many campgrounds offer both 30-amp and 50-amp service, but availability varies. As one camper at Currahee RV Park observed, "Nice concrete pads in a former pasture. Not a lot of shade for most sites." Request shaded sites when booking if visiting during summer months.
Site leveling: Preparation for uneven terrain is important. A camper at Currahee RV Park mentioned, "Only issue with the site is that the sewer drain is much higher than the pad and camper." Bringing extra sewer hose supports can help with proper drainage.
