Glamping sites near Ninety Six, South Carolina offer elevated platforms and deck structures ranging from 6 to 12 feet above ground level. The region sits at the edge of South Carolina's Piedmont region where the terrain gradually transitions from rolling hills to the coastal plain. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F with high humidity, while water levels in Lake Thurmond and surrounding reservoirs fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access at some camping locations.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing access: Springfield Campground on Hartwell Lake provides convenient water entry points with rock-free shoreline areas. "We stayed at one of the small loops, waterfront right at a small cove. Very nice side, some shade but decent water access. No problem to Launch the canoe and the sup," notes Olaf I.
Archery and skeet shooting: Hickory Knob State Park Resort offers specialized outdoor activities beyond standard camping. "It's a long way to everywhere here. But they have it all. Golf, swimming, axe throwing, archery, skeet shooting. Trails for hiking/biking," reports Brian B.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points for anglers exist around Lake Thurmond, with bass and crappie being common catches. "Nice and quite on the lake. Not a big crowd in March," mentions Swain K. at Elijah Clark State Park, where the spring fishing season starts earlier than peak summer months.
What campers like
Water proximity: Many sites allow campers to access the water directly from their site. "Site 49, awesome views. Comfort stations close and clean. Lots of water activities," states Stephanie K. about Mistletoe State Park.
Spacious sites: The area's campgrounds feature unusually large sites with good separation. "The sites are big, with trees in between most sites. Most sites are a stones throw away from the lake. The view Lake Hartwell is Beautiful," reports Melissa W., highlighting the privacy many campers seek.
Clean facilities: Despite being in remote locations, campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "Nice peaceful, layed back campground will return!!!" writes Jim R., while Ashton H. adds, "Elijah Clark state park was nice and quiet. Pretty views and clean bath houses."
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Lake access can vary dramatically by season, affecting how easily you can reach the water from your site. "We do advise if your in a tent maybe not taking a direct lakefront spot because we literally had to tie down our tent to anything including our car because it got so windy from the winds across the lake," warns Kirsten W.
Limited supplies nearby: The small town of McCormick provides basic supplies but requires planning. "This campground is very quiet and right near the water. I enjoyed it and would stay again," shares a reviewer at Lake Thurmond RV Park.
Site selection matters: Choose sites based on your specific needs rather than solely on water views. "Several things turn me off of this campground. First, the campsites offer absolutely no privacy or separation. Second, we paid for a premium site, however, our site (#65) flooded and became clay-muddy when it rained," cautions Kara's C.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pine Ridge Campground offers structured activities for children. "Lots of stuff for the kids to do! Bath house clean and laundry facility great! We will definitely be back!" says Erica C.
Beach areas: Designated swimming areas provide safer water access than rocky shorelines. "Winfield Campground is located on the Little River near Mistletoe State Park on J. Strom Thurmond Lake. The 70,000 acre lake and its 1,000+ miles of shoreline provide excellent boating, water skiing, swimming, fishing, hiking and picnicking," describes Mike K.
Educational opportunities: Nature programs and historical sites around the campgrounds provide learning experiences. "From the main entrance is a winding wooded road to the main store. Inside the store they also have a mini library you can borrow from and next to that a nature area with a live snake and turtles," shares Bill C.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. "Still being upgraded, so newish pad was still soft but pretty level. Sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches. Electric posts are new but have a meter right below plugs, so surge suppressor gets to hang sideways," notes Kevin H.
Connectivity concerns: Baker Creek and surrounding areas have variable cell service. "Some sites are challenging to back into but worth the effort. Large resort State Park with lots of activities and access to Strom Thurmond lake. Friendly and very helpful staff," mentions Rob W.
Road conditions: Access roads to glamping near Ninety Six can be rough and require careful driving. "Rough roads, poor shower house, undeveloped sites. But man, what a view," states Brian B., emphasizing that the destination justifies navigating the challenging approach.
