Bussey Point Wilderness Area offers equestrian camping near Modoc, South Carolina on the shores of Clark Hill Lake (Strom Thurmond Lake). The peninsula location provides direct access to 12 miles of horse trails through varied terrain. Camping sites feature waterfront locations with picnic tables and fire rings, with a well providing water access and open pit latrines available. The area operates on a pack-in, pack-out basis with a $10 per night fee that must be reserved through recreation.gov.
What to do
Trail riding: The 12-mile horse trail system offers various terrain options for riders of all experience levels. At Bussey Point Wilderness Area, "This is my favorite spot for taking it in, and getting back to nature. Bussey Point is primitive camping at it's best," notes camper Big D.
Swimming and beach access: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. At Wildwood County Park, visitors appreciate the "Awesome beach area, great playground for kids. Kayak & paddleboard rentals," according to camper David H.
Historical exploration: Visit nearby historic sites like A.H. Stephens State Park, which houses Civil War artifacts and the former home of the Confederate Vice President. Camper Norris K. reports, "Park is the home of the VP of the Confederacy and features his home and Civil War artifacts (check for open hours)."
What campers like
Privacy and quiet: Weekday camping provides exceptional solitude with minimal crowds. At Bussey Point Wilderness Area, camper Josh R. appreciates the atmosphere: "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."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife, particularly deer. At A. H. Stephens State Park Campground, campers enjoy spacious sites with natural surroundings. "We stayed in 2 sites with the grandparents. #9 & #12... Both sites were nicely graveled and level," notes Elizabeth M.
Water activities: Direct lake access for fishing and boating makes these campgrounds popular. Wildwood County Park camper Tanya S. explains, "I've stayed at this camp ground 3 times they have lots of sites right on the water many with your very own mini beach an you can bring your boat up to as well."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping areas now require advance booking through recreation.gov rather than first-come, first-served availability. "Campground rates are $10 per night and reservations must be made now through recreation.gov," confirms Linda A. about Bussey Point.
Limited amenities: Prepare for primitive camping conditions at many sites. Cody S. advises about Plum Branch RV Park: "This campground is very quiet and right near the water. I enjoyed it and would stay again."
Seasonal considerations: Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting access points and swimming areas. Claire M. notes about Bussey Point site #4: "It has a fallen tree and lots of underwater sticks right when you walk out on the lake so watch your toes!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Wildwood County Park, David H. recommends the "Awesome beach area, great playground for kids. Kayak & paddleboard rentals. Decent pricing for campsites."
Consider yurt options: For families wanting more comfort than tent camping provides, several parks offer alternative accommodations. At A.H. Stephens State Park, Mary G. discovered: "We stopped here for one night in December, passing through. The park had a beautiful Christmas light display with hot chocolate and a Christmas movie playing on a big screen."
Pack all supplies: Limited services mean bringing everything you need. Dan F. advises about Wildwood: "We walked around to see what the park had on that side, and it included a nice sandy beach, picnic tables under the shade, and a really cool primitive camping area that was out on a peninsula."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Some areas have tight turns or low-hanging branches. Kevin H. from Lake Thurmond RV Park suggests: "Still being upgraded, so newish pad was still soft but pretty level. Sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches."
Connectivity considerations: Cell service and WiFi vary throughout the region. Kevin H. provides detailed information: "I was right under a WiFi antennae, and managed a 4.5meg download and 4.48 upload. Following are phones I have and how they feature: Cricket; 7.98dn, 0.84up, ATT; 27.69, 0.3 up, Visible: 7.2dn, 1.2up, Verizon: 44.9dn. 1.88 up."
Leveling requirements: Many sites require additional leveling equipment. Clark B. notes about Wildwood County Park: "Campsites on this loop have dirt road, sites are fairly level. Not quite as big and level as local USACOE campgrounds."
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