McCormick's camping areas surround J. Strom Thurmond Lake, the third largest man-made lake east of the Mississippi River with 1,200 miles of shoreline. Camping elevations range from 330-400 feet, creating varied terrain with clay soil and pine-dominant forests. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 50s-60s.
What to do
Mountain biking on Bartram Trail: The trail passes through Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake offering both beginner and advanced sections. "I've camped at Petersburg multiple times of the past 5 years and generally love it. Bartram Trail, terrific mountain for biking and hiking passes through the property," notes Todd C.
Fishing from campsite: Many sites at Hawe Creek - J Strom Thurmond Lake provide direct water access for fishing. A camper reported, "Every site has an awesome view and easy access to the water - with tons of privacy between sites!" Sites have different shore conditions, with some requiring careful navigation of rocks.
Golfing nearby: Hickory Knob State Park offers an 18-hole championship golf course within minutes of camping areas. A camper named Tracy H. shared, "We went specifically to golf, and had a great round. You do need to reserve a tee time."
Kayaking from your site: Launch directly from waterfront campsites at many locations. "We launched our kayak from campsite," Susan H. reported about her stay at Elijah Clark State Park. Some campgrounds also offer rental options for visitors without equipment.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Elijah Clark State Park Campground offers sites with direct lake access. According to Wanda C., "What's a great place to stay!!! Beautiful colors for the fall, waterfront campsites, water and electric hook ups and back-in AND pull-through spots available."
Clean bathhouse facilities: Many campers note the cleanliness of facilities as a deciding factor. Sterling H. wrote about Hawe Creek, "Hosts were friendly and the bathrooms clean." Maintenance varies significantly between campgrounds in the area.
Secluded camping options: At Leroys Ferry, campers appreciate the relative isolation. One camper noted, "This is a great, unpopular place to camp. Most of the campsites have access via trails to the lake. It's clean with easy access and most sites are very easy to navigate."
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings provide ample wildlife sightings. One camper at Modoc mentioned, "Wildlife live in the woods around the sites. I've seen deer, a bobcat, and various water fowl." Early mornings and dusk offer the best viewing opportunities around lake edges.
What you should know
Significant red clay presence: The distinctive red clay soil in the region stains everything it touches. A camper at Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake observed, "The lake is silty — pre-filtering recommended if you are using a filter." Shoes can become permanently stained from the clay.
Reservation requirements vary: While Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds like Bussey Point previously operated on a first-come basis, most now require advance bookings. "Campground rates are $10 per night and reservations must be made now through recreation.gov," notes Linda A.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require careful setup due to terrain. One camper at Elijah Clark mentioned, "Several things turn me off of this campground...our site (#65) flooded and became clay-muddy when it rained." Bringing leveling blocks is essential for both tents and RVs.
Seasonal water level changes: Water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting access to the lake. One reviewer observed at Mistletoe State Park, "If the water is low like it was when I was here, the lake water was not accessible — you'd have to trudge through 50 feet of mud to get to it."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreational areas: Multiple campgrounds include family-friendly amenities. At Mistletoe State Park Campground, Bill C. found plenty of activities: "The kiddos enjoyed playing putt putt, the playground and the beach area. There is also plenty of history to see, experience and learn about."
Pack ant prevention supplies: Ant problems are widespread in the region, especially at lakeside sites. A camper at Baker Creek warned, "need to use something for ants or you will be covered up in them, including from limbs touching." Bring ant spray, food containers, and consider elevated storage options.
Select sites with easy water access: For families with children, choosing appropriate water access is crucial. Kirsten W. 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."
Child-friendly fishing options: Several parks provide free fishing opportunities for children. Amy C. shared her experience, "We had cabin 5 and walked to the water. Free fishing pole for kids." Ask at park offices about kids' fishing programs.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service quality: Plum Branch RV Park (formerly Lake Thurmond RV Park) offers newer electrical hookups but with some quirks. Kevin H. noted, "Electric posts are new but have a meter right below plugs, so surge suppressor gets to hang sideways." Bringing surge protectors is recommended for all RV sites.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies widely across the McCormick area. A detailed report from one RVer at Plum Branch RV Park measured: "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."
Road conditions caution: Many access roads require slow, careful driving. One camper at Baker Creek State Park warned, "There are some incredibly bad roads, complete with 3rd world pot holes." RVers should scout routes in advance when possible, especially after heavy rains.
Dog-friendly campground variations: Most campgrounds welcome pets with standard leash requirements, but dog swimming areas differ. Modoc allows dogs to swim in certain areas, with a reviewer noting, "Dogs aren't allowed on beach area but we found our own great spot within the park that allowed them to swim and cool off with us!"
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