Strom Thurmond Lake spans over 70,000 acres with more than 1,000 miles of shoreline along the Georgia-South Carolina border. The lake reaches depths of 180 feet and maintains a year-round water temperature between 55°F and 90°F depending on season. Most campgrounds around Modoc operate seasonally from late March through September, with minimal bugs during spring camping season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Access to clear waters with multiple species at Mistletoe State Park Campground, where campers target largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish and striped bass. "Went fishing in the lake. Very nice people around," reports Garrett C., highlighting the welcoming atmosphere for anglers.
Water recreation: Kayak, canoe, or swim directly from waterfront sites at Hawe Creek - J Strom Thurmond Lake. The lake offers excellent swimming conditions with moderate temperatures. "The lake was nice and warm and great for swimming. Hosts were friendly and the bathrooms clean," notes Sterling H., indicating ideal water conditions for families.
Hiking trails: Explore the Bartram Trail which runs through Petersburg Campground with connections to multiple wilderness areas. The trail offers both challenging and moderate sections for hikers of all skill levels. "Mountain bike trails in either direction just at the park entrance. Our site like most was right on the lake, and because we were out on more of a peninsula had great sunsets," writes Christina, highlighting the multi-use nature of the trail system.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Most pet-friendly camping options near Modoc, South Carolina feature generous waterfront sites with unobstructed lake views. At Winfield - J Strom Thurmond Lake, "The sites are enormous, private, and provide panoramic lake views. Ours was perfect. The site has a fire ring with grill, a standing grill, a picnic table, and a prep table," explains Greg S., emphasizing the abundant space available.
Natural privacy: The spacing between campsites allows for quiet enjoyment without intrusion from neighbors. At Ridge Road, "These sites are all good sized lots and not on top of each other. Amenities are clean, but could use another bath house or two. Beautiful views of the easily accessible lake," reports Ivan C., highlighting the campground layout.
Ease of water access: Most campgrounds feature direct lake access for pets and owners. Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake campsites offer immediate water entry points. "We swam right from our site and loved it," states Greg S., confirming the convenient water access that makes pet-friendly camping here appealing.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate seasonally from late March through September, with specific opening and closing dates varying by location. Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds typically open April 1 and close September 30.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Bussey Point Wilderness Area offers a more rustic camping experience with basic amenities. "The campsites have a picnic table and a fire pit. 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," explains cody S., highlighting the primitive nature of this camping option.
Variable bathroom conditions: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between campgrounds, with some offering full showers and others only vault toilets. "The bathrooms were quite far from some sites requiring a long walk or drive," notes Rachel G. at Mistletoe State Park, indicating potential accessibility challenges.
Ant problems: Several campgrounds report seasonal ant issues, particularly during summer months. "Need to use something for ants or you will be covered up in them, including from limbs touching," warns Swain K., suggesting preventative measures for campers.
Tips for camping with families
Beach options: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with sandy beaches ideal for children. "The beach and boating facilities were very nice. The playgrounds were still closed off due to Con-19," reports chad H., indicating family-friendly water access at Mistletoe State Park.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment for children, though availability may vary seasonally. "Nice beach, playground, and everything well kept," notes Greg S., confirming family amenities at Winfield.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities for educational experiences. "We saw lots of wild life, lots of stars at night (gets really dark at night)," shares chad H., highlighting natural educational opportunities.
Water safety considerations: Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area offers a smaller, more controlled water environment. "Nice little hike around a nice little lake. Pretty simple. No wifi or electric," explains Sara R., describing a manageable setting for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Big rig owners should carefully select campgrounds that accommodate larger vehicles. "Access to sites are easy. Almost all are pull through. They're also pretty well spaced out for privacy and plenty of space for each site. Hook ups are well maintained as are the roads and trailer parking areas," advises Alex C. about Petersburg Campground.
Leveling considerations: Some sites require additional preparation for leveling. "We were able to park our 44 ft. Fifth wheel with ease with little assistance from a park host," reports Judy W. at Pointes West Army Resort, though noting proximity to neighbors.
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups are standard at most established campgrounds, but sewer connections are less common. "Sites had water, electric, concrete table, fire ring, and lantern hook," notes Rachel G., detailing the typical setup at most area campgrounds.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds offer dump stations rather than full sewer hookups at individual sites. "Plenty of road side gray water dumps between sights and TWO dump stations," explains chad H., highlighting waste management options.
Ranger
