Camping options near Modoc, South Carolina feature multiple lakefront properties with access to J. Strom Thurmond Lake, the second largest lake east of the Mississippi. The region experiences mild winters with rare freezes, making it suitable for year-round RV camping. Most campgrounds in the area operate on southeastern time schedules, with peak season running April through October when water recreation is most popular.
What to do
Fishing access: Hamilton Branch State Park Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities with boat launches and shoreline access. "Great fishing and swimming. Prepare your site for ants they will get into everything if not," advises camper Swain K.
Water recreation: Kayaking and paddling are popular activities at waterfront sites. "Sites at Hamilton Branch are right on the water with a wide trail leading directly to the water," notes Sarah, though she cautions, "The water was low during our trip so the immediate shoreline was a bit squishy going through the damp clay. I'd recommend water shoes."
Trail exploration: Hikers can access the Bartram Trail directly from Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake, making it convenient for both day hikes and mountain biking. "Large spread out campground so could bike and hike right in and from the park. Mountain bike trails in either direction just at the park entrance," reports Christina.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds in the area host abundant wildlife. Campers at Hamilton Branch report, "There was lots of deer and made the hike to the bathroom worth it for us," showing the natural setting despite developed campgrounds.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Pointes West Army Resort receives praise for its lakeside peninsula locations. "Sites L, M, and N are all on a little peninsula that sticks out into Clarks Hill Lake, and are our personal favorites!" shares Jason L., highlighting the premium waterfront options.
Lake views: Petersburg campground offers waterfront sites with sunset views. "Our site like most was right on the lake, and because we were out on more of a peninsula had great sunsets," writes one camper who stayed for seven nights.
Uncrowded off-season camping: Several campgrounds offer peaceful experiences during non-summer months. At Pointes West, one camper noted, "My wife and I have stayed here three times in both early spring and mid-autumn. Two of those times we had the place to ourselves."
Helpful staff: Multiple campgrounds receive recognition for courteous personnel. At Heritage RV Park, "The person who checked us in was nice and helpful and the process was speedy," according to Nancy W., making arrival straightforward after a long drive.
What you should know
Ant prevention: Multiple campers mention ant issues, particularly at lakeside sites. "Prepare your site for ants they will get into everything if not," warns one Hamilton Branch camper, suggesting bringing ant deterrent products.
Site surfaces vary: At Plum Branch RV Park, campers note, "Newish pad was still soft but pretty level. Sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches." This can affect leveling and hookup systems.
Lake water levels: Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access. One Hamilton Branch camper mentioned, "We didn't realize water level was down. Didn't affect the views but trodding the mud to get to the water made kayaking a little challenging."
Maintenance issues: Some campers report declining maintenance at certain properties. At Petersburg, one visitor observed, "The restrooms on our loop weren't really cleaned deeply over our 4 night stay with used band aids in the corner of the shower stall."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Moon Landing Campground welcomes pets but has restrictions on swimming and fishing that families should note. According to one reviewer, "No tent camping no fishing and no swimming. Why go?" This indicates the property focuses primarily on RV camping with boat access.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds lack specific children's facilities. At Heritage RV Park, campers note: "There were also no fire pits or communal areas/playgrounds, so it was difficult to keep our toddler entertained."
Water safety: Lakefront sites require supervision. One camper at Pointes West reported, "We as in myself, my 2 year old little girl and our 2 dogs...Our dogs loved the water," indicating accessible but potentially steep shorelines.
Site selection for families: Noise varies by location within campgrounds. At Petersburg, one camper noted, "We could hear everyone's conversations. We could hear the people on both sides as well as the people across the water," suggesting families should request more isolated sites.
Tips from RVers
Cell service: RVers report variable coverage with carrier differences. At Plum Branch RV Park, specific measurements show: "Cricket: 7.98dn, 0.84up; ATT: 27.69, 0.3 up; Visible: 7.2dn, 1.2up; Verizon: 44.9dn, 1.88 up; T-mobile mifi: no 4g nor 5G service."
Site spacing: At Carolina Hill Mobile Home and RV Park, a long-term RVer appreciates the "large sites" and notes that "if you walk around the park four times, you have walked a mile," providing context for the property size.
Hookup positions: Heritage RV Park guests mention, "Electric posts are new but have a meter right below plugs, so surge suppressor gets to hang sideways," indicating potential equipment adaptations needed.
Road access: Many campgrounds feature well-maintained entrance roads. Heritage RV Park receives praise for accessibility: "All the roads are wide and easy to navigate. The sites are level and we had no problem fitting our RV and tow car in a back-in site."
