Best Campgrounds near Modoc, SC

Camping in the Modoc, South Carolina area centers around J. Strom Thurmond Lake with several established campgrounds offering water access and recreational opportunities. Modoc Campground, operated by the Army Corps of Engineers, provides waterfront sites with electric and water hookups for both tent and RV camping. Nearby Hamilton Branch State Park features nearly 200 campsites, most with direct lake access. Both locations accommodate various camping styles from basic tent camping to larger RVs, with some parks also offering cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort.

The camping season generally runs from late March through September at most developed campgrounds in the region. A visitor noted, "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, waded in the sandy edge of the lake." Most campsites require reservations, particularly during summer months when waterfront locations fill quickly. Cell service varies throughout the area, with campers reporting good coverage at Modoc Campground for both AT&T and Verizon users. The bath facilities at most campgrounds are functional but basic, with several reviews mentioning they are "clean but older" at Modoc Campground.

Waterfront access represents the primary draw for campers visiting this region, with nearly all sites at Hamilton Branch State Park offering lake views. Several visitors highlight the privacy between campsites as a significant benefit. According to one camper, "Sites are very spaced out... we thought there was a lot of space between them, and most faced the water, so they all kind of faced away from each other." Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, raccoons, and various waterfowl including bald eagles. Families appreciate the paved roads for biking and easy water access for fishing, swimming, and boating activities. Many mixed-use campgrounds allow visitors to bring boats directly to their campsites, making these locations particularly popular among fishing enthusiasts and water recreation seekers.

Best Camping Sites Near Modoc, South Carolina (94)

    1. Mistletoe State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Appling, GA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-0321

    $12 - $175 / night

    "We camped in one of the tent only walk-in sites located on a peninsula jutting into the lake. We had a ton of stuff, not realizing it was an uphill and pretty long trek, but it was totally worth it."

    "My kids played in the lake and we used our kayak and paddleboards. The beach was nice as well. We drove about 20 minutes to South Carolina and the J. Strom Thurmond Dam."

    2. Hamilton Branch State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    2 miles
    Website

    "On lake Thurmond between Plum S. C. And Modoc S. C. On hey 28."

    "The downside to this design is that sites on the left side of the T shape, back in with the trailers camp side facing the road, not the lake."

    3. Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    31 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-9464

    $18 - $50 / night

    "There is water and electric at each site for those who are in a RV but the dump sites are pretty close by. We will definitely be back!"

    "Lakeside lot with incredible space. Dog friendly and they enjoyed being able to go for a swim right outside of the camper."

    4. Elijah Clark State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Lincolnton, GA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 359-3458

    $20 - $170 / night

    "From the main entrance is a winding wooded road to the main store."

    "Set up well for families with children… room to ride bikes, scooters, skateboards; playground; putt putt course; trails to walk; beach areas all around the camp ground for easy access to the water."

    5. Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    12 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 333-2272

    $22 - $64 / night

    "We spent a Monday to Thursday at Modoc in late May. We literally had our section of the campground all to ourselves."

    "Went to my planned campsite Lake Springs, which was closed for the season. My late start along with the closed campground meant I would be looking in the dark. "

    6. Ridge Road - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    6 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-0282

    $22 - $64 / night

    "Easy walk down to the water, lovely breeze, quiet. We were close to the ADA bathhouse that was immaculate."

    "Tons of trees and most sites are on right on the lake. The water is amazingly clear."

    7. Winfield - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    11 Reviews
    Appling, GA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-0147

    $32 / night

    "Winfield is a compartively little-known USACE campground situated on a peninsula near the more heavily-traffic Mistletoe State Park."

    "It’s right on the lake. There is a retaining wall at the water so it’s about a 3” step to the water. We plan to bring a sep ladder next time. Beautiful place to spend your time camping."

    8. Bussey Point Wilderness Area

    5 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 533-3478

    "There's no power which is perfect for camping off grid away from all the trailers.

    The campsites are right on the water and the view is beautiful."

    "It has a fallen tree and lots of underwater sticks right when you walk out on the lake so watch your toes! When we come back we’d probs choose site #5 to avoid the tree and all the limbs."

    9. Pointes West Army Resort

    6 Reviews
    J. Strom Thurmond Lake, GA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (706) 541-1057

    $7 - $25 / night

    "The only reason why I didn't give a 5 star was because we were very close to neighbors. They were all in a row so if you open your curtains others can see you. Full hookups."

    "Sites L, M, and N are all on a little peninsula that sticks out into Clarks Hill Lake, and are our personal favorites!"

    10. Hawe Creek - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    6 Reviews
    Plum Branch, SC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 443-5441

    $28 - $32 / night

    "The campground is situated on Strom Thurmond Lake. The campground is run by the Army Corp of Engineers. There is a boat launh and fishing pier near by Dorn Fishing Facility."

    "Every site has an awesome view and easy access to the water - wth tons of privacy between sites!"

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Recent Reviews near Modoc, SC

429 Reviews of 94 Modoc Campgrounds


  • Bobbie S.
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Carolina Hill Mobile Home and RV Park

    Peaceful

    Traveling for my husband's work. Kimberly Clark is six minutes away. Moved in one day ago and I already know that I absolutely LOVE it here! Zero road noise, large sites, shade trees and laundry room. Robbie in the office is as sweet as can be. Met the owner this morning, very nice man. If you walk around the park four times, you have walked a mile. Will try to remember to update this review when we leave. update Still love it here and would absolutely stay here again ❤️

  • Bobbie S.
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Pine Acres Campground and RV Park

    Not a bad stay.

    Spent three weeks here for my husband's work. Many full time renter's. My neighbors were wonderful people. The office manager, Tammy, was absolutely amazing! There was no openings at any campground in the area and she was able to work it out for us to be able to move in. They are working on adding a lower area for more sites. Sadly, there are no trees down there. The current sites are pretty close together. I would not be able to open my awning all the way if I wanted to. This is a great spot for someone here working and needs a place. Not really a family vacation spot. It is quite busy within the park, people coming and going a lot. It's off a very busy road, noise pollution is a factor. I came to the conclusion that the owner is pretty focused on adding the new sites (makes sense, that's how you afford upgrades). That being said, fixing VERY large potholes seems like something you could easily keep up with. You are able to receive mail here. They have a bathhouse/bathrooms, laundry room and dumpsters.

  • K C.
    May. 14, 2025

    Hamburg State Park Campground

    Fantastic on the water sites

    Wonderful park and fantastic staff, there is a small general store next to the mill. There were crafts and a mill tour while we visited.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 17, 2025

    Wildwood Park Columbia County Park

    Gorgeous !!

    This camp is absolutely gorgeous and the atmosphere is so serene and peaceful. My family and friends LOVE this place!

  • Kevan  R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 15, 2025

    Calhoun Falls State Park Campground

    Great sites with lake views

    This is a SC State Park located in Calhoun Falls, SC. A fishing campground - the vast majority of campers had boats. Sites are great / not on top of each other. Quiet. SC needs to up the maintenance on the park. Playground equipment and trails need immediate work. Bathhouses need upgrading.

  • Kennon H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 15, 2025

    Aiken State Park Campground

    Storm damage is apparent

    Rv spots are nice. Primitive camping site show almost no use. RV bathrooms were older and clean. Hurricane damage is every where. Only one hiking trail is open. Keep an eye out for broken limbs on windy days. Many family’s were camping here with young kids.

  • Rebecca N.
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Diamond Lakes Regional Park Campground

    Needs electric camping for tent camping

    Tent camping was really more of a job than a vacation night and bathrooms were nasty


Guide to Modoc

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Modoc, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, Modoc, SC offers a wide range of camping options, with 94 campgrounds and RV parks near Modoc, SC and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Modoc, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Modoc, SC is Mistletoe State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 66 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Modoc, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Modoc, SC.

What parks are near Modoc, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Modoc, SC that allow camping, notably J. Strom Thurmond Lake and Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests.