Lake Hartwell spans the Georgia-South Carolina border with a 962-mile shoreline and water levels typically dropping 3-4 feet during winter months. The lake's campgrounds are positioned across varied elevations, with some offering direct shoreline access while others sit on terraced hills overlooking the water. Waterfront sites at many campgrounds require early booking during peak season from late May through September.
What to do
Paddling from campsite: At Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell, campers can launch directly from their sites. "We loved staying here for a birthday weekend. Dog friendly, right on the water, clean restrooms. We stayed at a primitive site and will definitely be back," reports Sydney W., noting how easy it was to access the water.
Mountain biking: Near Watsadler Campground, mountain biking trails provide alternatives to water activities. "Not a whole lot to do in the park (fine by me, happy to stare at a lake) but nice long walk to the dam, some reasonable mountain biking quick drive away," notes Christina, who appreciated both lake views and land-based recreation.
Equestrian activities: Campgrounds near Fants Grove offer horse-friendly trails along Lake Hartwell. "The biggest plus for me is that it is a short distance from Fants Grove and T Ed Garrison arena. During rodeos held at the Garrison arena we often take breaks to Fants Grove for the wonderful horse friendly trails on Lake Hartwell," shares Maddi P.
What campers like
Lakefront accessibility: Oconee Point receives consistent praise for its lake access. "Oconee Point is a Core of Engineers campground with HUGE sites and almost all are lake front. Super clean and peaceful. Three dump sites for RVs. Electricity and water at every site," explains Chris G., highlighting the campground's spaciousness.
Private waterfront sites: Campers appreciate the secluded sites at Sadlers Creek State Park Campground. "Our campsite was very easy to haul the kayaks to the beach from and very private also. Quiet and peaceful," shares Muffy S., emphasizing the ease of water access.
Swimming areas: The dedicated beaches appeal to families with children. "There is a nice beach area for swimming and playground for the kids. The campground doesn't offer much in way of amenities, but you'll forget about that once you set up camp and relax by the campfire, roasting a s'more while watching the sun set over the lake," notes Arleen T. about Coneross Park.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Research specific sites before booking at Lake Hartwell State Park Campground to ensure appropriate spacing. "We are big fans of space between neighbors and noticed right away that these sites are rather close to one another. The views helped make the closeness bearable," Bill C. explains.
Winter water levels: During winter, lake levels drop significantly. "Water down maybe 3 to 4' at winter level rock sand dirt shore line," notes David F. about January conditions at Watsadler campground.
Fire ant awareness: Some areas have pest issues worth preparing for. "Our only complaint was the entire campsite was one large fire ant hill! We had to travel to the local dollar general to get ant spray to help with the infestation," Melissa R. warns about her experience at Lake Hartwell State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Coneross Park Campground offers multiple recreation areas for children. "There are two beaches and multiple playgrounds, and the paved roads make for fun bike riding. The heavy foliage makes everything private," Catherine O. explains.
Lake swimming options: Families appreciate the designated swimming areas. "The lake is beautiful, there are plenty of places to swim, and tons of shoreline to explore. The playground is very nice. The bathrooms, especially the ones by the office, are kept very clean," Jen G. shares about Sadlers Creek.
Holiday activities: Some Hartwell Lake campgrounds host special events during peak holidays. "We visited over the 4th of July weekend and they had all sorts of activities going on. Bingo, parade, fireworks, hotdogs and more!" reports Katie D. about her experience at Carolina Landing.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Thousand Trails Carolina Landing presents challenges for larger RVs. "Our site- A5- was super unlevel. I felt unsafe with our fifth wheel's two left tires up in the air after auto-leveling," Becky P. warns, suggesting RVers bring substantial leveling blocks.
Dump station planning: Some campgrounds have limited dump facilities causing delays during checkout. "The dump station has only a single drain, so last minute checkout leads to long lines," notes Windell S. about Watsadler, suggesting RVers plan accordingly.
Site dimensions: Many RVers recommend researching exact site measurements. "Most sites will handle a 40' rig. There are three bathhouses with showers around the campground and one bathroom with flush toilets but no showers. Roads are wide, well kept, and easy to navigate," Windell S. mentions about Oconee Point.
