J. Strom Thurmond Lake spans 70,000 acres with over 1,000 miles of shoreline, creating varied camping opportunities near Parksville, South Carolina. The area features primarily Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds with distinctive characteristics compared to state parks. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, sometimes dropping significantly by late summer, which affects swimming access at many lakefront sites.
What to do
Fishing for variety: Thurmond Lake offers excellent fishing for multiple species. At Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake, wildlife abounds in the surrounding woods where campers report "I've seen deer, a bobcat, and various water fowl. Fishing, boating, and swimming can be enjoyed here. A big draw for me is the scenery on the lake and the lack of mosquitoes."
Biking through forests: Several campgrounds connect to trail systems suitable for different experience levels. The Bartram Trail runs through Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake where campers note, "Bartram Trail, terrific mountain for biking and hiking passes through the property." This provides direct trail access without needing to drive.
Kayaking the coves: Launch directly from lakeside sites at many campgrounds. One visitor at Winfield - J Strom Thurmond Lake shared, "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. Great for water activities (kayaking, SUP, etc) with awesome evening views."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Unlike more crowded state parks, Corps campgrounds typically provide more space between campsites. At Hamilton Branch State Park Campground, one camper noted, "Camp sites are nice with lots of room between other sites. Can be reserved 11 months out. Good fishing and swiming. Prepare your site for ants they will get into everything if not."
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds offer chances to see animals in their natural habitat. A camper at Hamilton Branch State Park mentioned, "There was lots of deer and made the hike to the bathroom worth it for us. No bitting bugs, but did find the first scorpion I have even seen in this state."
Accessible shorelines: Most campgrounds offer direct water access. At Bussey Point Wilderness Area, "All sites are waterfront On Clark Hill Lake(Strom Thurmond Lake)" according to a visitor, though another noted to "watch your toes" at Site #4 due to "a fallen tree and lots of underwater sticks right when you walk out on the lake."
What you should know
Ant prevention essential: Multiple campgrounds report ant problems, especially during summer months. A camper at Ridge Road - J Strom Thurmond Lake shared, "The entire campground is spotless, clean, and exceptionally well maintained," but you'll need ant protection at most sites.
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels can drop significantly by late summer. One camper noted, "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."
Variable cell service: Connectivity depends on specific campground location. At Modoc, campers report "Great cell coverage with AT&T" while other campgrounds have limited or no service.
Bathroom facilities vary: Some campgrounds lack showers entirely. At Bussey Point, facilities are primitive with "an open pit latrine. There's no power which is perfect for camping off grid away from all the trailers."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access matters: Choose campgrounds with designated swimming areas for safer water play. At Elijah Clark State Park Campground, one camper shared, "The kiddos enjoyed playing putt putt, the playground and the beach area. There is also plenty of history to see, experience and learn about."
Fishing program for kids: Some parks offer free fishing equipment. A visitor to Mistletoe State Park Campground noted, "We had cabin 5 and walked to the water. Free fishing pole for kids."
Playground proximity: Several campgrounds feature play areas. At Winfield, the campground "contains 80 sites with electrical hookups. Amenities include flush and vault toilets, showers, drinking water, a dump station, playground and boat ramp."
Fire safety precautions: Fire rings are provided at most sites, but some campgrounds have specific regulations. A Bussey Point camper mentioned, "The sites have a picnic table and a fire pit. The campground has a well for water and an open pit latrine."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer easy access sites. At Mistletoe State Park, "Sites in the 60-90 loop looked the best with water views and shade and most were pull through."
Leveling considerations: Site topography varies significantly. At Petersburg, one RVer noted, "Our site (19) is quite large and very level (after the entry driveway): plenty of room for the coach and at least 2 other vehicles."
Hookup variations: Water and electric are standard, but full hookups are limited. At Ridge Road, "Nice roomy sites with plenty of space between. Picnic tables, grills and fire rings at each campsite." Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds include water and electric but require using dump stations.
Reservation timing: Popular waterfront sites book quickly, especially for weekends. At Hamilton Branch, "We camp here almost every other weekend during the warm months and once a weekend during the cooler months."
