Bussey Point Wilderness Area provides dedicated equestrian camping accommodations on Lake Thurmond. The campground features clearly marked trails and ample parking for horse trailers in a secluded setting. The 12-mile trail system allows riders to explore the entire peninsula directly from their campsites without trailering to separate locations. While primarily designed for equestrians, the area's primitive waterfront sites appeal to tent campers seeking quieter alternatives to developed parks.
What to do
Trail riding: Horseback riders can access 12 miles of trails directly from Bussey Point Wilderness Area campsites. "There's a 12-mile horse trail that goes out on the peninsula and some pack-in or canoe-in campsites out on the peninsula," reports camper Cody S.
Swimming: Cool off in Lake Thurmond after riding. "All sites are waterfront On Clark Hill Lake (Strom Thurmond Lake)," notes Linda A. However, be cautious of underwater hazards at some spots: "It has a fallen tree and lots of underwater sticks right when you walk out on the lake so watch your toes!" warns Claire M. about site #4.
Fishing: Try fishing from the shoreline at Watson Mill Bridge State Park, where campers report success. "We caught 2 bass. There is a picnic table and a fire pit with a built in grill," shares Rebecca L. The park also features the longest original covered bridge in Georgia, stretching 229 feet.
What campers like
Privacy: The remote setting of Bussey Point appeals to those seeking solitude. "This is my favorite spot for taking it in, and getting back to nature. Bussey Point is primitive camping at it's best," writes Big D. Sites are well-separated, providing ample space between campers.
Wildlife viewing: A.H. Stephens State Park offers frequent wildlife encounters. "This state park has boats to rent, fishing, swimming equestrian camping, cabins ect..They have this large primitive area that we used," shares Elaine G. The park maintains equestrian facilities with new infrastructure.
Water access: Nearly every site at South Cove County Park has lake views. "Great campground with great hosts and great fishing. Beautiful lake with crystal clear water," writes Mike K. The tiered campsite design maximizes water visibility with "great view of the lake" from virtually all locations.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Bussey Point now requires advance booking. "Campground rates are $10 per night and reservations must be made now through recreation.gov," notes Linda A., an important update for those familiar with the previous honor system.
Weather considerations: Primitive sites can become challenging during rainstorms. At Wildwood County Park, one camper experienced infrastructure issues: "The only issue the last time I stayed was there was a main pipe that burst an the water was cut off to the entire area for a whole day that was awful."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. At Watson Mill Bridge State Park, "Phone service with ATT and Sprint/T-Mobile is non existent at the campsite. 200 yards uphill at bathhouse service is available," reports Nancy L.
Pack-in, pack-out rules: No trash collection exists at most primitive sites. "If you pack it on, pack it out. There is no trash pickup provided," reminds Linda A. about Bussey Point's wilderness policies.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Plum Branch RV Park offers family-friendly shoreline. "This campground is very quiet and right near the water," notes camper robins662. The lakeside location provides natural swimming areas without strong currents.
Playground options: South Cove County Park features multiple play areas for children. "My family stayed at South Cove on a Friday night. We were impressed with the large number of pull through sites and the cleanliness of the campground. There are several large play areas in walking distance," shares Kelli P.
Wildlife warnings: Supervise children around wildlife, especially at feeding locations. "We loved this campground! Perfect for kids, right on the lake. Loved the playground. Warning! 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!" cautions Roxy M.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: At A.H. Stephens State Park, site features vary significantly. "Site 9 (handicapped site) was perfect for the grandparents as there was a short paved walkway straight to the bath house. Both sites were nicely graveled and level," reports Elizabeth M.
Utility post configuration: Some parks have challenging hookup designs. At Plum Branch RV Park, "Sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches. Electric posts are new but have a meter right below plugs, so surge suppressor gets to hang sideways," cautions Kevin H.
WiFi and connectivity: Data service varies by carrier. "I was right under a WiFi antennae, and managed a 4.5meg download and 4.48 upload. 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," details Kevin H. from his Plum Branch RV Park stay.
