Bussey Point Wilderness Area is situated on a 235-acre peninsula extending into Strom Thurmond Lake, part of the larger 70,000-acre lake system. Located at approximately 330 feet elevation, the area experiences moderate southeastern climate with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. The peninsula contains mixed hardwood and pine forests with understory vegetation creating natural barriers between most campsites.
What to do
Trail riding: The equestrian-focused campground connects directly to the 12-mile trail system that covers the peninsula. "There is a 12-mile horse trail that goes out on the peninsula and some pack-in or canoe-in campsites out on the peninsula," notes Cody S. from Bussey Point Wilderness Area.
Fishing: Waterfront sites provide direct access to Strom Thurmond Lake's fishing opportunities. Tanya S. from Wildwood County Park reports, "I've stayed at this camp ground 3 times they have lots of sites right on the water many with your very own mini beach an you can bring your boat up to as well."
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts abundant wildlife, particularly deer. "We had about 100 whitetail deer in our back yard every night. The camp host apparently was feeding them, and he set up spot lights so that they could be watched as they ate," writes Dan F. at Wildwood County Park.
What campers like
Solitude: Many visitors appreciate the lack of crowds at these horse campgrounds near Jackson, South Carolina. "Over the weekend I was the only one here and the only person I spoke to was the volunteer Camp Ranger from the US Army Corps of Engineers," says Cody S. from Bussey Point.
Primitive camping experience: For those seeking less developed camping options, the area delivers. "This is my favorite spot for taking it in, and getting back to nature. Bussey Point is a no frills campground. If you are looking for luxurious amenities, and a pristine restroom facility, this is not the place for you," explains Big D. from Bussey Point Wilderness Area.
Waterfront access: Campsites directly on the water provide swimming and boating access. "We stayed at site #4. Plenty of room to spread out! It has a fallen tree and lots of underwater sticks right when you walk out on the lake so watch your toes!" advises Claire M. at Bussey Point.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some equestrian campgrounds in the Jackson area now require advance planning. "Campground rates are $10 per night and reservations must be made now through recreation.gov," explains Linda A. from Bussey Point.
Pack-in, pack-out policy: No trash service exists at most primitive horse camping areas. "If you pack it on, pack it out. There is no trash pickup provided," notes Linda A.
Bathroom facilities: Expect basic facilities at most equestrian campgrounds. "The out houses & vault toilets are in good shape," reports Josh R. at Bussey Point.
Insects: Prepare for seasonal bug activity. "Lots of Mosquitoes and yellow flies," warns Jill from Broxton Bridge Plantation.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Some campgrounds offer designated swimming areas suitable for children. "Awesome beach area, great playground for kids. Kayak & paddleboard rentals. Decent pricing for campsites," recommends David H. at Wildwood County Park.
Water safety: Check individual sites for underwater hazards before allowing children to swim. "When we come back we'd probs choose site #5 to avoid the tree and all the limbs," suggests Claire M., referring to hidden obstacles at Bussey Point.
Facilities for non-equestrians: Some areas offer mixed accommodations. "If you have family that does not have an RV, you could stay in your RV and they could stay in the really upscale yurts," notes Dan F. about options at Wildwood.
Tips from RVers
WiFi considerations: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds. "I was right under a WiFi antennae, and managed a 4.5meg download and 4.48 upload," reports Kevin H. at Plum Branch RV Park, who also lists cellular carrier speeds: "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."
Site selection: For equestrian camping with RVs, consider site size and levelness. "Still being upgraded, so newish pad was still soft but pretty level. Sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches," notes Kevin H. about infrastructure at Plum Branch.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "Access road to campsites is about a mile long. Walking to other areas of the campground was a hike of several miles," explains Clark B. at Wildwood County Park.
