Best Campgrounds near Clarks Hill, SC
The J. Strom Thurmond Lake region surrounding Clarks Hill, South Carolina features multiple established campgrounds managed primarily by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Several waterfront camping options include Hamilton Branch State Park, Modoc, Petersburg, and Wildwood County Park, all situated along the 70,000-acre reservoir that forms the border between South Carolina and Georgia. Most developed campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some locations like Mistletoe State Park and Pointes West Army Resort also offering cabin accommodations for those seeking more amenities.
The campground season typically runs from spring through fall, with many facilities operating from late March through September. "We spent a Monday to Thursday at Modoc in late May. We literally had our section of the campground all to ourselves. Quiet beautiful good fishing, minimal bugs," reported one visitor. Access roads throughout the area are generally paved and well-maintained, allowing for easy navigation to campsites, though some waterfront sites may require moderate terrain navigation. Most campgrounds provide electric and water hookups with sanitary dump stations, though shower availability varies by location. Cell service is generally reliable in the area, with campers noting good coverage for both AT&T and Verizon carriers at locations like Modoc Campground.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw to the Clarks Hill area, with many sites offering direct lake access. Sites at Petersburg Campground are particularly noted for their spacious layouts and privacy, with a camper describing it as having "magnificent views nearly all of them lakeside, spacious sites, picnic tables, firepits, dark starry night skies." The region also offers recreational opportunities beyond camping, including fishing, boating, swimming at designated beaches, and hiking trails like the Bartram Trail which passes through Petersburg Campground. Campsite reservations are recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. While bathhouse facilities exist at most locations, their cleanliness and maintenance quality varies, with some visitors noting inconsistent upkeep at certain campgrounds.
