Camping near Central, South Carolina centers primarily around Lake Hartwell and Lake Keowee, with water-based activities forming the core camping experience. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access at many lakefront sites. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 60-80°F range with lower precipitation.
What to do
Kayaking accessible waters: Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell provides direct water access for paddlers. "We loved staying here for a birthday weekend. Dog friendly, right on the water, clean restrooms. We stayed at a primitive site and will definitely be back. It was mostly very quiet with the exception of some boats engines or playing music during the day," notes Sydney W.
Hiking mountain trails: Table Rock State Park offers multiple trail options within a 30-minute drive. "The Table Rock trail is a must if you are nearby! It is pretty strenuous especially if you have health issues but is well worth the trek to the top. Just make sure that if you hike during the winter to give yourself plenty of time to finish the trail," advises Maggie J.
Fish local waters: Oconee Point on Lake Hartwell provides excellent fishing opportunities. "We camped lakefront on hartwell. Had a very large point all to ourselves. The site was super clean, had a fire pit, grill, full service hook-up. Plenty of parking, and the site was situated in a dead end cul-de-sac," reports Lori W.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: "The sites were immaculate, and more private/better shielded than other campgrounds. The waterfront aspect was completely charming. The water and electric hookups worked perfectly, the fire pit had been cleaned out and was easy to use," notes Mariah M. about Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell.
Multi-lake access: Camping near Central provides access to both Lake Hartwell and Lake Keowee. "In the park, you can swim, hike, camp, fish and kayak. You will see some excellent views of the mountain ranges. We saw deer, squirrels, birds, snakes, and many salamanders," says John B. about the region's natural diversity.
Primitive camping options: Keowee-Toxaway State Park offers more secluded options. "We kayaked in our inflatables a short way across the lake to our primitive camping site which included nearby firewood that we could collect and use in a provided firepit area and used the large tree trunks as seating. The site overlooked the water and had a good amount of privacy/space from the other campers," describes Nichole W.
What you should know
Site selection matters: "This spot is the highest on the third 'island' out from the mainland. It has epic 360 views. But, a lot of tree canopy and it is dirt/gravel. While the spot is very level, be very weary that the drive up to this spot is steep and curved, We barely made clearance with a 23' trailer that has a lift kit on it," cautions Adam V. about Mile Creek County Park.
Reserve well in advance: Most waterfront sites book quickly, especially during summer. "Huge campground near Clemson. The best spots are hard to get unless you reserve way ahead of time. Plenty of amenities and most sites are lakefront," advises John R.
Weather preparedness: Summer heat can be intense. "All we could have wished for was a breeze, it was stifling hot (95+)," reports one camper. Spring and fall typically offer more comfortable camping conditions with temperatures in the 70-80°F range.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly swimming areas: "The swimming area was nice and the playgrounds were sadly closed but definitely would have been enjoyed by my kids! Overall it was quiet and relaxing," mentions a visitor about Twin Lakes facilities designed for younger campers.
Campground amenities for kids: "This is a very family friendly site that is always a favorite. The lake isn't the cleanest but it's great for boating, kayaking, and paddle boarding," notes Maddi P., highlighting the water recreation options for children.
Kid-friendly hikes: Devils Fork State Park offers easier trails suitable for families. "Jocassee state park in Devils Fork is awesome for the family! Lots of water activities. The area is clean. We had an awesome stay!" says Marlene V. about the family-oriented recreation opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: "While the spot is very level, be very weary that the drive up to this spot is steep and curved. We barely made clearance with a 23' trailer that has a lift kit on it. This spot requires backup skills and the right equipment," warns an experienced RVer about navigating certain campsites.
Hookup variations: "Sites have 50/30/20 amp electric service and water, pads are level packed gravel, each having a picnic table and fire ring. Many sites offer direct water access right in front of the site," notes Windell S., detailing the amenities available for RV campers.
Electronic connectivity: "Had 5G access entire time and easy to do business as digital nomads," reports one camper, though signal strength varies significantly by campground location and provider.
