Best Campgrounds near North Augusta, SC
The Savannah River region surrounding North Augusta, South Carolina features numerous lakeside camping opportunities centered around J. Strom Thurmond Lake (also called Clarks Hill Lake). Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds like Petersburg and Modoc offer spacious waterfront sites with basic amenities, while state parks such as Hamilton Branch State Park provide more developed facilities. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access multiple campgrounds with options ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots. The pine forests and lake peninsulas create natural boundaries between many campsites, with both Georgia and South Carolina managing recreation areas along the shared waterway.
Campground accessibility varies seasonally, with many Corps of Engineers sites operating from April through September. Summer brings higher water levels and increased boat traffic, particularly on weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. As one camper noted, "Winfield is a comparatively little-known USACE campground situated on a peninsula near the more heavily-trafficked Mistletoe State Park. It's tucked up the Little River and therefore not on the main body of Clarks Hill Lake which sees a good deal of boat traffic in the summer months." Reservations are essential during peak season, while spring and fall offer quieter experiences with more availability. Some campgrounds have narrow access roads that can be challenging for larger RVs.
Lakefront camping dominates the region's outdoor experience, with water recreation serving as the primary attraction. Visitors frequently mention the quality of fishing, paddling opportunities, and swimming areas. Site privacy varies considerably between campgrounds and specific locations within each park. According to one Hamilton Branch State Park visitor, "Sites are HUGE and very private. Just about every site is lakefront." Tent campers should note that many sites have gravel or paved pads rather than soft ground. Bathhouse facilities receive mixed reviews across the region, with some campgrounds offering modern amenities while others maintain more basic facilities. Wildlife sightings, particularly deer and waterfowl, are common throughout the area's campgrounds.
