Lake Keowee serves as the backdrop for luxury glamping near Seneca, South Carolina, with water temperatures averaging 80°F during summer months. The peninsula layout creates over 300 miles of shoreline around the 18,500-acre reservoir, providing diverse camping environments from forested sites to direct waterfront access. Most campgrounds maintain seasonal operations from April through October with limited winter availability.
What to do
Kayaking access points: At Cherry Hill Campground, water activities extend beyond Lake Keowee to nearby streams. "There's a creek that runs through the campground with many sites along its bank," notes reviewer Tony E., who recommends site #2 for water proximity.
Trail connections: Explore beyond the shoreline using the interconnected trail systems. "Winding Stairs trail connects to the campground and offers good hiking. Just across the street is the Big Bend trail which takes you to Big Bend falls on the Chattooga River," according to a Cherry Hill visitor.
Lake swimming: Sadlers Creek State Park provides multiple swimming areas along Lake Hartwell. "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," reports Jen G., who visited with family.
Mountain hiking: For those seeking elevation gain, Table Rock State Park offers challenging terrain. "If you like to hike there are two strenuous hikes in the park from 4-8 miles long and steep climbs that offer breathtaking views," notes John B.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Keowee-Toxaway State Park. "Very mature campground... Lots of shade and campsites are decently spaced apart," says Liz S. This differs from the more open layouts at South Cove.
Direct water entry: At Springfield - Hartwell Lake, sites often include personal water access. "We stayed on site 7 for 4 nights and then site 68 for 2 nights. Water access wasn't the best on 7, but we enjoyed it," notes Sheryl C., highlighting the variations between sites.
Nighttime security: Sadlers Creek maintains controlled access. One visitor appreciated that "areas were well kept and clean," though noted some sites are "a little tight for our 30ft camper and 2 dogs."
Lakefront positioning: Springfield - Hartwell Lake provides excellent lake views. "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," shares Talia R., highlighting the varied shore access.
What you should know
Site unevenness: At Oconee State Park, terrain can present challenges. "Campsites are often uneven with a lot of tree roots running throughout. It does require consideration before parking your trailer or RV," advises Constance O.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between locations. "The area very serene, quiet and pretty. Nice hiking area and swimming area. If you need to get ahold of someone though you'll have to drive 10 to 15 minutes into town," notes Ashley S. about Oconee State Park.
Seasonal crowds: Tugaloo State Park experiences significant visitor fluctuation. "This campground was not fully booked, yet most campsites were maxed out with people in each one so it felt extremely busy with lots of partying-like noise," reports Ethan H., who visited during peak season.
Facilities maintenance: Expect varying levels of upkeep. "Bathrooms were always clean and seem to have been recently redone. Sites were small but not overly so," reports Jay B., who stayed at Oconee State Park in June.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple play zones: South Cove County Park offers extensive recreation areas for children. "Family friendly, well maintained... There are several large play areas in walking distance," notes Kelli P., who appreciates the proximity to accommodations.
Swimming safety considerations: Tugaloo State Park offers designated swimming areas with varying depth profiles. "Awesome beach access from the campsites. Great spot for summer," shares Jessica D., though notes boat traffic increases during warmer months.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Nature observation appeals to families at Tallulah Gorge State Park. "We saw deer, squirrels, birds, snakes, and many salamanders," reports John B., who visited with children.
Hiking difficulty planning: Consider trail ratings carefully with younger campers. "The hiking is fun but intense. Be prepared for lots of stairs, a bridge over the water, and rock hopping across the water," advises Jamie M. about Tallulah Gorge trails.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at many sites. "Sites are big, with trees in between most sites. Most sites are a stones throw away from the lake. The view Lake Hartwell is Beautiful. There is no hook ups for sewer. But there is a dump station," explains Melissa W. about Springfield - Hartwell Lake.
Site selection strategies: Research specific site numbers before booking. "We stayed at site 7 which is a pull through. We had camper and extra car with boat and kayak and fit with a little extra room. Able to kayak right from campsite," advises Liz H., who stayed at Tugaloo State Park.
Electrical reliability: Be prepared for occasional infrastructure issues. "This is a decent campground with a small RV loop and a handful of sites with water and electric.....well if the electric actually worked. Twice in one week this campground experienced a complete and total power outage each of which lasted for hours," notes Daniel G. about Keowee-Toxaway State Park.
