Cabin accommodations near Plum Branch, South Carolina sit along the shores of Strom Thurmond Lake, also called Clarks Hill Lake. The region features clay-based soil with rolling hills at approximately 330 feet elevation. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access at lakeside cabin properties and impacting which facilities offer the best waterfront views.
What to do
Fishing access: Mistletoe State Park Campground offers multiple fishing opportunities with boat rentals available. "Lots of water activities," notes Stephanie K., who enjoyed site 49 with its "awesome views" and convenient access to clean facilities.
Clay beach swimming: The lake features distinctive red clay beaches at some access points. "Beach is made of clay so be sure to wear shoes unless you don't mind red feet," advises Padget M. about Hickory Knob, where site 18 provides excellent water access regardless of season.
Boat launching: Many cabins allow direct water access for private boats. "You could pull your boat up to your waterfront campsite," mentions Rachel G. about Mistletoe State Park, which provides boat ramps and kayak rentals. The campground also features "a great store selling souvenirs, ice, firewood, worms for fishing."
What campers like
Lake views: The region's cabins often include lake vistas as a prime feature. At Elijah Clark State Park Campground, Susan H. appreciated how they "launched our kayak from campsite" with its "beautiful lake" setting. Water levels affect the view quality during different seasons.
Natural seclusion: Many cabin sites feature natural buffers between units. Melanie found Hickory Knob had sites that were "woodsy and secluded" and appreciated how "the staff was amazing and helped me find something last minute."
Evening tranquility: The more remote cabin locations provide darker skies for stargazing. At Mistletoe State Park, Chad H. noted they "saw lots of wild life, lots of stars at night (gets really dark at night)" across the spacious grounds with "multiple bath houses and a large amount of community space."
What you should know
Military-only access: Some facilities restrict access to military personnel. At Military Park South Carolina Army National Guard Clarks Hill Training Center, Jay S. points out, "The location is beautiful, however, it is not open to the public. You must be past or present military to book."
Cabin availability: Advance reservations are essential at most sites. Michelle R. notes at Military Park, "Whether camping in a tent or renting a cabin, all are $20 per night" with "flushing toilets and hot showers," but booking limitations apply.
Ant prevention: Multiple reviews mention ant issues at lakeside cabins. "Bring something for the ants!" advises Melanie about Hickory Knob, echoing warnings from other campers about this common seasonal challenge during warmer months.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin proximity to bathrooms: For families with young children, bathroom access varies significantly. At Elijah Clark State Park, Wanda C. notes, "The bathrooms with shower stalls have AC and heat no matter the time of year you go" and the park offers both "back-in AND pull-through spots available."
Water safety precautions: Some cabin sites feature steep drops to water. At Mistletoe State Park Campground, Andy S. warns about water access points where "it is all large rocks for the most part and they were very slippery even when dry so be careful."
Kid-friendly amenities: Several parks offer dedicated children's activities. Amy C. from A. H. Stephens State Park Campground mentions that during Christmas, "the park had a beautiful Christmas light display with hot chocolate and a Christmas movie playing on a big screen" and staff were "so friendly."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: The hilly terrain around Plum Branch requires careful preparation. Rob W. notes at Hickory Knob, "Some sites are challenging to back into but worth the effort" due to the topography, though staff are "friendly and very helpful."
Road conditions: Internal campground roads require careful navigation in larger units. Tracy H. mentions at Hickory Knob, "the campground road is in pretty rough shape" which impacts RV access, though most sites offer "a nice view of the lake."
Hookup variations: Different cabin areas offer diverse utility options. At Richard B Russell State Park Campground, Sonyia W. found "sites were on the smaller side and not particularly level front to back" but the facilities included "plenty of boat ramps, beach, golf course" to complement the cabin experience.
