State parks around McCormick, South Carolina surround Strom Thurmond Lake (also called Clarks Hill Lake), covering 70,000 acres with over 1,000 miles of shoreline. The region sits within the Piedmont geographical area, with clay soil and mixed pine-hardwood forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions in the 60-80°F range.
What to do
Kayaking from campsite: At Elijah Clark State Park Campground, many waterfront sites provide direct lake access. "We launched our kayak from campsite," notes Susan H., highlighting the convenience of watercraft access without hauling equipment to a boat ramp.
Fishing opportunities: The lake system provides excellent fishing for multiple species. "Fifteen fish and whose counting? Not to mention the 'BIG ONE' that got away on our last day!!!" reported one enthusiastic camper at Untamed Honey Glampsites. The area supports largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish and striped bass.
Hiking forest trails: Multiple state parks offer hiking paths through surrounding woodlands. "There are are also nearby trails to go hiking," mentions Michael C. about Baker Creek. Many trails connect between parks or follow shorelines, though some reviews note trail maintenance varies significantly between parks.
What campers like
Lake views and sunsets: Waterfront sites at Winfield - J Strom Thurmond Lake provide outstanding views. "Sunset at this site was amazing," says Jason H., while another camper notes, "Gorgeous lake with no sign of civilization across from the campground." Many sites include retaining walls at water's edge for easy water access.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the quality of bathhouse facilities. "Elijah Clark state park was nice and quiet. Pretty views and clean bath houses," reports Ashton H. The availability of showers varies between parks, with state-managed properties typically offering more amenities than Army Corps sites.
Site privacy: Though density varies between campgrounds, many offer good separation between campsites. According to Bill C., "The sites are enormous, private, and provide panoramic lake views." For maximum privacy, Raysville Campground receives consistent praise as "a hidden gem at Clarks Hill Lake" that is "much quieter and more secluded than the others in the area."
What you should know
Weather impacts: Wind off the lake can affect tent camping at waterfront sites. One reviewer at Hickory Knob advised: "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."
Soil conditions: The red clay soil around the lake can create challenges after rainfall. Kara notes, "our site (#65) flooded and became clay-muddy when it rained." Many reviews mention bringing footwear suitable for clay shorelines and planning for potential rain impacts.
Insects: Ant populations can be problematic at some campgrounds. Multiple reviews mention bringing ant spray, particularly during summer months. "Bring spray for ants an mosquitos but that's everywhere in the woods lol," advises one camper at Winfield.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: For swimming with children, look for designated beach areas. "The kiddos enjoyed playing putt putt, the playground and the beach area," reports Bill C. about Mistletoe State Park Campground. Not all campgrounds maintain swimming beaches, so check before booking.
Playground facilities: Several parks include playground equipment for children. "There is also plenty of history to see, experience and learn about," adds a camper, noting educational opportunities alongside recreational ones at Elijah Clark State Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Some parks offer more structured activities. "Inside the store they also have a mini library you can borrow from and next to that a nature area with a live snake and turtles," mentions a reviewer, highlighting amenities beyond standard camping facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have varied terrain affecting site leveling. A camper at Raysville Campground mentions, "The spots were nice, large, most waterfront, with power and water." However, others note challenges with site levelness, particularly at older campgrounds.
Hookup considerations: RV sites throughout the area typically offer water and electric, with fewer offering sewer. "We had site #25. It was a pull through with 30 and 50 amp plugs," notes a camper at Winfield, while another mentions, "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."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges. "The campground road is in pretty rough shape," notes one reviewer about Hickory Knob, while another mentions, "Rough roads, poor shower house, undeveloped sites. But man, what a view."
