J Strom Thurmond Lake offers extensive camping opportunities near Parksville, South Carolina at 330 feet elevation. The 70,000-acre reservoir features numerous pet-friendly campgrounds with varying amenities and access points along its 1,000+ miles of shoreline. Water temperatures remain comfortable for swimming during summer months, with the lake providing year-round fishing and boating opportunities.
What to Do
Hiking trails: Bartram Trail passes through Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake and offers excellent mountain biking and hiking. "I've camped at Petersburg multiple times of the past 5 years and generally love it. Bartram Trail, terrific mountain for biking and hiking passes through the property," notes Todd C.
Fishing: The lake supports multiple fish species at Mistletoe State Park Campground, where anglers can catch largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish and striped bass. "We had cabin 5 and walked to the water. Free fishing pole for kids," reports Amy C., highlighting the family-friendly fishing opportunities.
Water activities: Swimming, boating, and kayaking are popular at Winfield - J Strom Thurmond Lake. "We swam right from our site and loved it. The sites are enormous, private, and provide panoramic lake views," shares Greg S. The campground features a beach area with playground equipment.
What Campers Like
Private waterfront sites: Ridge Road - J Strom Thurmond Lake provides spacious campsites with water views. "These sites are all good sized lots and not on top of each other. Beautiful views of the easily accessible lake, a boat ramp and a park all round out this nice little getaway spot," writes Ivan C.
Clean facilities: Bathroom maintenance varies by campground but receives positive mentions at several locations. At Mistletoe State Park Campground, campers appreciate the upkeep: "Great site 49, awesome views. Comfort stations close and clean. Lots of water activities," notes Stephanie K.
Spacious campsites: Petersburg Campground offers large sites with good separation. "Easy access in and out, back-in site was very large with lake views while keeping us in mostly shade. As with all campgrounds, some sites are better than others," mentions Rick G.
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds operate seasonally, typically from late March through September. Winfield Campground runs from March 29 to September 28, while Ridge Road operates April 1 to September 29.
Site selection matters: At Petersburg, Todd C. advises: "Some of the sites are stellar" but notes that maintenance quality can fluctuate. Research specific site locations and conditions before booking, as waterfront access varies significantly.
Primitive camping options: Bussey Point Wilderness Area offers more basic facilities for those seeking less developed camping. "Bussey Point is primitive camping at its best," states Big D., while cody S. explains: "The campsites have a picnic table and a fire pit. The campground has a well for water and 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: Look for campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas. "Nice lake, clean campground, large sites!" reports Elizabeth W. about Winfield, which features a swimming beach and playground area.
Playgrounds available: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "Nice roomy sites with plenty of space between. Picnic tables, grills and fire rings at each campsite. Bathrooms aren't bad. Friendly caretakers. Pets allowed. Playground and beaches," notes Jodi P. about Ridge Road.
Educational opportunities: Elijah Clark State Park Campground provides historical interest alongside camping. "There is also plenty of history to see, experience and learn about," explains Bill C., who also mentions "The kiddos enjoyed playing putt putt, the playground and the beach area."
Tips from RVers
Hookup information: Most campgrounds offer electric and water hookups, but sewer connections are limited. At Petersburg, Alex C. shares: "Access to sites are easy. Almost all are pull through. They're also pretty well spaced out for privacy and plenty of space for each site. Hook ups are well maintained as are the roads and trailer parking areas."
Site leveling considerations: When selecting an RV site, check for level pads. At Elijah Clark, one camper notes: "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."
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide dump stations rather than full sewer hookups. At Mistletoe State Park, one reviewer highlights: "Over 70 sights with 30 amp, and water service, plenty of road side gray water dumps between sights and TWO dump stations."
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