Bussey Point Wilderness Area offers primitive equestrian camping in eastern Georgia, 10 miles from Plum Branch, South Carolina. This Corps of Engineers site sits on a peninsula extending into Strom Thurmond Lake, creating 12 miles of shoreline with elevations ranging from 330-350 feet. The area receives approximately 44 inches of rainfall annually, supporting mixed pine and hardwood forests that provide natural shade for campers and their horses.
What to do
Explore the horse trails: The 12-mile trail system at Bussey Point Wilderness Area winds through diverse terrain. "Bussey Point is primarily for equestrians. The campsites have pre-installed horse hitches and plenty of room to move a horse trailer," notes camper Cody S.
Cool off with horses: During summer months, take advantage of lakefront access. "All sites are waterfront On Clark Hill Lake(Strom Thurmond Lake)," mentions Linda A., making it easy for horses to cool off after trail rides.
Fish from shore: Bring fishing gear for catch-and-release opportunities. "The campsites are right on the water and the view is beautiful," explains Cody S. The lake offers bass, crappie, catfish and bream fishing opportunities year-round.
Visit nearby historic sites: Take a day trip to A. H. Stephens State Park Campground for historical exploration. "We did the A. H. Stephens museum tour and that was very nicely done," shares Cathy C., who suggests combining camping with educational opportunities.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: At Wildwood County Park, campers appreciate the quiet setting. "We stayed on site 38 and then moved to 58 after a couple of days... Site 38 was large enough and had big, flat, surface for the picnic table, fire ring, camper, and truck," reports Dan F.
Wildlife viewing: Nature enthusiasts enjoy abundant wildlife sightings. "Abundance of wildlife. The out houses & vault toilets are in good shape. This park is always quiet and offers plenty of privacy," says Josh R. about Bussey Point.
Lakefront access: Direct water access ranks highly among visitors. "We stayed at site #4. Plenty of room to spread out! It has a fallen tree and lots of underwater sticks right when you walk out on the lake so watch your toes!" advises Claire M. who stayed at Bussey Point.
Clean facilities despite primitive setting: Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "The bath house is clean. Hot water was wonderful," notes Rebecca L., who stayed at one of the primitive sites.
What you should know
Reservation system changes: Bussey Point camping requires advance planning. "Campground rates are $10 per night and reservations must be made now through recreation.gov," explains Linda A., noting the shift from first-come-first-served to reservation-only status.
Pack-in, pack-out requirement: No trash service exists at most equestrian sites. "If you pack it on, pack it out. There is no trash pickup provided," Linda A. reminds visitors to Bussey Point.
Limited cell service: Communication can be challenging in remote areas. At Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground, "Phone service with ATT and Sprint/T-Mobile is non existent at the campsite. 200 yards uphill at bathhouse service is available," reports Nancy L.
Weather considerations: Pioneer sites at Watson Mill require careful planning. "If there is rain in the forecast do not, for the love of God, do not camp in the pioneer sites. You will get flooded," cautions Nicole R.
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming areas: Wildwood County Park offers designated swimming spots. "Awesome beach area, great playground for kids. Kayak & paddleboard rentals. Decent pricing for campsites," recommends David H.
Consider cabin options: For families wanting more comfort near horse campgrounds, alternatives exist. "The cabins on Federal Lake just reopened after getting new flooring," mentions Cathy C. about A.H. Stephens State Park.
Check for accessibility features: Some campgrounds offer accessible sites. "Site 9 (handicapped site) was perfect for the grandparents as there was a short paved walkway straight to the bath house," notes Elizabeth M. about A.H. Stephens State Park.
Pack extra water: Limited potable water sources mean preparation is key. "There is a water spigot but it's in an area with red clay near the entrance to the site so it's messy," warns Rebecca L. about Watson Mill Bridge State Park.
Tips from RVers
Watch for specific power setups: At Plum Branch RV Park (formerly Lake Thurmond RV Park), electrical connections require attention. "Sewer pipes stick out a good 6 or 8 inches. Electric posts are new but have a meter right below plugs, so surge suppressor gets to hang sideways," cautions Kevin H.
Check cellular coverage: Different carriers perform variably throughout the region. "Cricket: 7.98dn, 0.84up; ATT: 27.69, 0.3 up; Visible: 7.2dn, 1.2up; Verizon: 44.9dn, 1.88 up; T-mobile mifi: no 4g nor 5G service," details Kevin H., providing specific measurements for various carriers.
Consider site selection carefully: At equestrian campgrounds near Plum Branch, site placement affects comfort. "Campsite #4... has a fallen tree and lots of underwater sticks right when you walk out on the lake so watch your toes! When we come back we'd probs choose site #5 to avoid the tree and all the limbs," advises Claire M.
