Camping opportunities near Modoc, South Carolina center around J. Strom Thurmond Lake, a 70,000-acre reservoir with over 1,000 miles of shoreline. The clay-based soils around the lake create distinctive red-tinted shorelines when water levels are low. Most campgrounds in this area experience seasonal fluctuations in water levels, which can affect water access points especially during late summer and fall months.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling access: At Mistletoe State Park, campers find excellent paddling conditions with minimal motorboat traffic in protected coves. "We kayaked all weekend. Great beach area as well. One of our favorites!" notes a visitor to Winfield Campground.
Mountain biking on Bartram Trail: Petersburg Campground provides direct access to miles of biking trails. According to one camper, "Bartram Trail, terrific mountain for biking and hiking passes through the property. Some of the sites are stellar."
Geocaching activities: Hamilton Branch State Park offers multiple geocaching opportunities for tech-savvy outdoor enthusiasts. "Plenty of activities for kids and adults alike, including geocaching," mentions a Hamilton Branch visitor.
Fishing from shoreline: The lake offers excellent bank fishing opportunities for multiple species. "Clean camp sites. Abundance of wildlife. The out houses & vault toilets are in good shape. This park is always quiet and offers plenty of privacy," notes a visitor at Bussey Point Wilderness Area.
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: Sites at many campgrounds provide substantial distance between neighbors. "Sites are very spaced apart and most faced the water, so they all kind of faced away from each other," shares one camper at Hawe Creek Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Corps of Engineers campgrounds generally receive high marks for cleanliness. A visitor to Petersburg Campground observed, "The roads leading here are quite comfortable for our 37' motorcoach as are the roads inside the grounds. This is a very well maintained USACOE facility."
Multiple waterfront camping options: Most campgrounds in the Modoc area feature numerous waterfront sites. A camper at Hawe Creek noted, "Every site has an awesome view and easy access to the water - with tons of privacy between sites!"
Reliable utilities: Water and electric services at most developed campgrounds function well even during peak season. "Site 74 is right between the beach and the boating dock. Very large pull thru. Love how it was super private compared to the many other campgrounds I've been to," shares a Winfield visitor.
What you should know
Insect preparation essential: Fire ants can be problematic during warmer months. "Camp sites are nice with lots of room between other sites. Can be reserved 11 months out. Good fishing and swimming. Prepare your site for ants they will get into everything if not," warns a Hamilton Branch visitor.
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels can vary significantly throughout the year. "The water level was extremely low when I was there so some of those rocks are probably covered by water earlier in the year," comments a Mistletoe State Park visitor.
Cell service variability: Coverage differs significantly between campgrounds and even between sites. At Modoc Campground, one visitor noted, "Great cell coverage with AT&T. Highly recommended."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking a more basic experience, several areas offer non-electric camping. At Bussey Point Wilderness Area, a camper explains, "Bussey Point is primitive camping at its best. The campground has a well for water and an open pit latrine. There's no power which is perfect for camping off grid away from all the trailers."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Pointes West Army Resort, a visitor noted, "Very clean facility, awesome cope course."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy spotting local animals around the campgrounds. "There was lots of deer and made the hike to the bathroom worth it for us," mentions a Hamilton Branch visitor.
Safe swimming areas: Designated swimming zones provide controlled environments for children. "Nicest campground on Clark's Hill Lake. I've stayed here on multiple occasions. The Rangers and facilities are great. Every site is on the water and the sites are far enough apart to provide privacy," shares a visitor.
Biking-friendly roads: Paved roads throughout most campgrounds accommodate young cyclists. According to a camper, "Upon entering the park there is the check in/Convenience store with helpful friendly staff. The store has park related gifts, toys, snacks, drinks and camping related supplies. The mostly level roads and trails are great for bicycling. A playground for the kiddos is also here and fun per the kids."
Tips from RVers
Recommended site selection: Some specific sites work better for larger rigs. At Petersburg Campground, "Our site (19) is quite large and very level (after the entry driveway): plenty of room for the coach and at least 2 other vehicles and it has 50/30 amp service and water."
Dump station logistics: Most campgrounds provide single dump stations that can get congested during peak checkout times. "All sites are waterfront on Clark Hill Lake (Strom Thurmond Lake). If you pack it on, pack it out. There is no trash pickup provided," advises a visitor to Bussey Point.
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate on a seasonal schedule. "The campground is only open from April til October," notes a Hawe Creek visitor, making advance planning essential for RVers requiring full hookups during shoulder seasons.
Boat accessibility: Many sites accommodate boat parking directly at campsites. "You could pull your boat up to your waterfront campsite. They also have kayak rentals," shares a Mistletoe State Park visitor.
