The Calhoun Falls area sits at the juncture of South Carolina and Georgia, with Lake Thurmond (also called Clarks Hill Lake) serving as the prominent water feature. Camping elevations range from 330 to 450 feet above sea level, with red clay soil and mixed pine-hardwood forests dominating the landscape. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, dropping significantly in late summer which can affect lake access at some campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Russell offers diverse fishing conditions with minimal shoreline development. At Hickory Knob State Park, the fishing is particularly good with one camper noting that "Clark's Hill is a Great Lake!" The park provides dedicated facilities for anglers, including boat jetties and storage areas.
Water recreation: The region provides multiple swimming areas with varying amenities. At Mistletoe State Park, "The park had a great store selling souvenirs, ice, firewood, worms for fishing. You could pull your boat up to your waterfront campsite. They also have kayak rentals." For families, Jim J. mentions "a huge well maintained beach and two playgrounds for the little ones" at the park.
Outdoor activities: Beyond water recreation, several parks offer additional activities. Hickory Knob provides diverse options as Brian B. notes: "They have it all. Golf, swimming, axe throwing, archery, skeet shooting. Trails for hiking/biking." For hikers at Parsons Mountain, Kevin T. advises "there is a trail that climbs to parson mountain and is recommended to only people who is fit enough because it is strenuous."
What campers like
Site privacy: Many campers value the secluded feel of sites throughout the area. At Calhoun Falls State Park, Justin S. reports "The tent sites are probably the best tent sites I've camped at. Spaced out and the pad area is great. They all have good tree coverage and are somewhat secluded." This privacy extends to other campgrounds like Hester's Bottoms, where campers mention "sites are off the road a little and most are right on the water."
Lake access: Direct water access from campsites ranks high among camper preferences. At Leroys Ferry, Daniel D. notes "This is a great, unpopular place to camp. Most of the campsites have access via trails to the lake." Cody S. adds, "Sites are only a hundred feet or so from the lake, so I threw up a hammock and watched the sunset over the water."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities receive consistent praise. At Richard B. Russell State Park, Jennifer K. observes that "The beach is nice and was never crowded. We hiked and biked the trails. They are well maintained." Similarly, at Parsons Mountain Lake Campground, Daniel B. noted an unexpected benefit: "One thing that really stood out was the bugs or I should say the lack their of! That was definitely the nicest part about it second to it's beauty."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location and provider. At Broad River Campground, Ingrid A. reports "We did not have cell signal for AT&T or Verizon." Similarly, at Hester's Ferry, Ashton H. notes it's "Quiet...no cell phone service...which we loved!"
Distance from supplies: Many campgrounds are remote with limited access to stores. Ashley W. warns about Calhoun Falls State Park: "There is NOTHING near by so make sure you take your food for the stay." At Hickory Knob State Park, Stuart K. advises "Because the nearest town of McCormick is a bit of a hike to get to (think at least a 20 minute drive on slow winding country roads), be sure to bring everything you need with you."
Seasonal considerations: Water levels and campground availability vary throughout the year. Broad River Campground operates only from April 1 to September 7, while Parsons Mountain Lake Campground runs May 1 to November 15. Danny B. notes at Leroys Ferry: "It's primitive camping so bring your own water, no electricity. No trash dumpster either so be prepared to pack it out."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Look for dedicated swimming zones with safety features. At Elijah Clark State Park, Bill C. notes the "kiddos enjoyed playing putt putt, the playground and the beach area." At Mistletoe State Park, Jim J. mentions "A huge well maintained beach and two playgrounds for the little ones."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. At Calhoun Falls State Park, Kevan R. cautions that while playgrounds exist, "SC needs to up the maintenance on the park. Playground equipment and trails need immediate work."
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer learning experiences alongside recreation. Bill C. notes that Elijah Clark has "a mini library you can borrow from and next to that a nature area with a live snake and turtles." The park also features historical areas where families can "see, experience and learn about" local history.
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: RV campers should research site dimensions and conditions. At Hesters Bottoms Family Campground, Brenda L. notes "They appear mostly level on the site but some have a little bit of a hill getting down to the site." She adds that they offer "water and electric sites. Dump station at the exit and it was off the road with plenty of room."
Leveling challenges: Several campgrounds have uneven terrain. Daniel D. mentions that at Leroys Ferry "You can fit an RV on most sites, although they aren't all completely level." At Hickory Knob State Park, sites typically offer "long drive-way with corresponding flat base platform" suitable for RVs.
Hookup availability: Services vary widely between campgrounds. At Richard B Russell State Park, camp sites offer electric and water hookups but no sewer connections at individual sites. JACQUES K. notes at Broad River that sites include "50/30/20 electric service and water. Dump station available, clean and well kept."
