Glamping options near Greenwood, South Carolina center around Lake Thurmond, which spans 70,000 acres along the Savannah River. The lake creates over 1,200 miles of shoreline at full pool, with many campsites situated at elevations between 330-350 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through August, with winter lows rarely dropping below 30°F, creating nearly year-round camping conditions.
What to do
Skeet shooting and archery facilities: Hickory Knob State Park Resort offers specialized outdoor target sports away from the water. "Hickory Knob is an OK park. It does have a nice golf course and skeet shooting, kayak rentals, cabins, a restaurant and a pool," notes a visitor to Hickory Knob State Park Resort.
Mountain biking opportunities: The region offers several trail systems suitable for cyclists of various skill levels. "We hiked and biked the trails. They are well maintained," shares one camper at Richard B. Russell State Park, where multiple trail loops accommodate both casual riders and more advanced cyclists.
Putt-putt and playground access: Many families appreciate the additional recreational amenities beyond water sports. "The kiddos enjoyed playing putt putt, the playground and the beach area. There is also plenty of history to see, experience and learn about," reports a camper at Elijah Clark State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront camping sites: Direct lake access remains the primary draw for many visitors. "We had a true adventure when we stayed there. The place was beautiful we camped overlooking the lake. We do advise if your in a tent maybe not taking a direct lakefront spot because we literally had to tie down our tent to anything including our car because it got so windy from the winds across the lake," warns a tent camper at Elijah Clark State Park.
Clean facilities: Many campers note the well-maintained bathhouses. "Our site was very easy to haul the kayaks to the beach from and very private also. Quiet and peaceful," shares one visitor at Sadlers Creek State Park, where the facilities receive consistent praise.
Peaceful atmosphere: The relative isolation appeals to those seeking quiet getaways. "Nice and quite on the lake. Not a big crowd in march," notes one Elijah Clark State Park visitor, highlighting the benefits of off-season visits when the lakeside campgrounds see fewer visitors.
What you should know
Ant problems: Insects, particularly ants, can be problematic in certain areas. "The entire park sits on a mound of ants. Ants everywhere. Ants of all varieties," warns a camper about Hickory Knob State Park.
Lake clay conditions: The shoreline composition affects swimming and boat launching. "Most of the lake access is solid Georgia red clay mud," mentions a Hickory Knob visitor, while another notes, "The beach is made of clay so be sure to wear shoes unless you don't mind red feet."
Site selection considerations: Exposure to wind and sun varies significantly by location. At Mistletoe State Park, "Site #2 is definitely best -- feet from the water, spacious, suitable for more than one tent or hammock. Sites #1 & #3 do not really have access to the water without climbing down something steeply dangerous or through thick trees."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Not all swimming areas are created equal. "The water access at sites #2 & #4 is nice but it is not a real beach -- it is all large rocks for the most part and they were very slippery even when dry so be careful," advises a visitor to Mistletoe State Park, emphasizing the importance of selecting appropriate swimming areas for children.
Fish for free with kids: Some parks offer complimentary fishing equipment. "We had cabin 5 and walked to the water. Free fishing pole for kids," notes a family who visited Hickory Knob State Park Resort.
Consider off-water sites in windy conditions: Lake exposure can create challenges for tent campers with children. "We literally had to tie down our tent to anything including our car because it got so windy from the winds across the lake," cautions an Elijah Clark camper about their lakefront site experience.
Tips from RVers
Limited leveling at some parks: Site grading varies significantly between campgrounds. At Baker Creek State Park, visitors should note that "some campsites, perhaps not good enough leveling" may require additional equipment.
Road condition warnings: Internal park roads at several locations need maintenance. "Rough roads, poor shower house, undeveloped sites. But man, what a view," summarizes one Baker Creek visitor, indicating the trade-offs RVers might consider.
Site spacing considerations: Privacy levels differ dramatically between parks. "Better bring a cart or a bike. It's a long way to everywhere here. But they have it all. Golf, swimming, axe throwing, archery, skeet shooting. Trails for hiking/biking. Nice sites close to the lake," recommends a Hickory Knob State Park Resort visitor, noting the significant distances within larger parks.
