Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell dominate the cabin camping landscape near Pelzer, South Carolina. These lakes create a series of peninsulas and coves where many cabin accommodations cluster, typically at elevations between 700-1,000 feet above sea level. Winter cabin stays range from the low 30s to mid-50s Fahrenheit, while summer temperatures can reach the 90s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Kayaking accessible waters: Mile Creek County Park offers direct water access from many sites. "We loved our stay here! Highly recommend a trip here during late fall season, the weather was perfect and it wasn't crowded," notes one camper at Mile Creek County Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lake access points permit various fishing styles. "On the other hand if you're thinking of riding the mtb trails you're in luck. They start literally across the davidson river from the campground," reports a visitor to Davidson River Campground.
Waterfall exploration: Several state parks feature notable waterfall hikes within 30-45 minutes of most cabin sites. "Parts of the trail feature waterfalls and overlooks onto the lake which is a great photo opportunity," explains a camper from Keowee-Toxaway State Park.
Swimming areas: Lake Jocassee provides clear, deep swimming areas. "There are some fantastic places to swim connected to the campground. The tent spots are by far the best and just a short walk in from the parking area," states a reviewer at Devils Fork State Park Campground.
What campers like
Lake views from cabins: Most cabin sites feature some water visibility. "Each campsite has wonderful views of the water. There is a playground by the entrance and near the farthest campsites as well," describes a guest at Mile Creek County Park.
Covered porches: Many cabin structures include sheltered outdoor seating. "We had a great place to hang hammocks near the fire pit and small trails behind the cabin to explore," recalls a visitor to Oconee State Park Campground.
Proximity to trails: Multiple hiking networks connect directly to cabin areas. "Variety of campsites available to suit any camping style. Great for families, as there are drive up camp sites with fire pits and plenty of space, and spread out so it still feels like you have privacy," explains a visitor to Table Rock State Park Campground.
Quiet evenings: Many cabin sites maintain distance between units. "It was incredibly secluded and quiet. We had a great place to hang hammocks near the fire pit and small trails behind the cabin to explore," notes an Oconee State Park camper.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Lake-adjacent cabins require booking 3-6 months in advance for peak periods. "Reserve well in advance," advises a Devils Fork State Park camper succinctly.
Site leveling challenges: Many cabin sites sit on uneven terrain. "Liked the campground. No amenities per day except bathroom/showers. Nice large sites but very unlevel due to mountain side. Would not stay again because we were so unlevel our refrigerator wouldn't work," cautions a visitor to Paris Mountain State Park Campground.
Varying bathroom facilities: Cabin bathroom access differs significantly between parks. "Bathhouses were conveniently located. Lots of hills so it was a little hard for the little kids to get around on bikes," explains a Mile Creek County Park camper.
Limited cell service: Multiple cabin areas have minimal connectivity. "The area very serene, quiet and pretty. Nice hiking area and swimming area. If you need to get ahold of someone though you'll have to drive 10 to 15 minutes into town," notes an Oconee State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access considerations: Lakefront entries vary in slope and bottom composition. "You need water shoes for swimming in the lake as it is rocky, but it has a perfect shallow end for little ones and very deep for kayaking and stuff like that," advises a Mile Creek visitor.
Playground locations: Several parks maintain play structures near cabin clusters. "There are multiple cabins scattered around the lake but they are a good distance apart from each other so you won't be disturbed by your neighbors," explains a camper from Oconee State Park.
Kid-friendly trails: Several short trail networks connect cabin areas to water features. "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," reports a Table Rock State Park visitor.
Seasonal water levels: Lake levels fluctuate significantly between seasons. "Although only one of them is considered on the shore, they are all within walking distance (down a little hill) from the shore. But make sure to check the water level; I've had to help push boats back into the water a few times," advises a Keowee-Toxaway State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Road width considerations: Several cabin access roads have narrow segments. "Since it is a large Rock cliff, probably not best for kids. But it does have an amazing view," notes a Table Rock camper.
Campground navigation: Internal roads require careful planning for larger vehicles. "We stayed in site #8 right on the lake. Water, electric and cable tv connections. No sites with sewer, but dump station has two receptacles so there was no wait to dump tanks on way out," explains a visitor to Tugaloo State Park Campground.
Site selection for larger rigs: Various parks offer different accommodation for vehicle lengths. "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," advises a Mile Creek County Park visitor.
