Several rental cabins dot the shoreline of Lake Hartwell and nearby Lake Keowee near Townville, South Carolina. This Upstate South Carolina region sits at approximately 700-800 feet elevation where summer temperatures average in the mid-80s with high humidity. Cabins range from lakefront accommodations with dock access to woodland retreats with hiking opportunities.
What to do
Swim at Lake Jocassee: Devils Fork State Park offers cabins with access to the exceptionally clear waters of Lake Jocassee. "The lake is gorgeous. Boat ramp and trailer parking. Kayak rentals available," notes Carissa D. The swimming areas are ideal during summer months when lake temperatures are comfortable.
Kayak from your cabin: Mile Creek County Park cabins allow easy water access. "The cabins are nice, but small and no plumbing. If you're used to tent camping then the cabins are one step above that. Bonus is the air conditioning. Great view in Cabins 1 and 2. Gentle slope to a nice beach as well for those two cabins," shares Kenny T.
Hike nearby trails: Cabin rentals at Oconee State Park provide convenient access to woodland trails. "I had a wonderful opportunity to spend a couple of days at a cabin with friends for a workshop. 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," according to Maddi P.
What campers like
Lake views from cabins: Lake Hartwell State Park offers cabin accommodations with lake vistas. "We stayed at Lake Hartwell State park in site 98 which was a lovely lakeside site. The sites on either side (96, 99) all shared a path to a small beach with lake access," reports Kim S.
Rustic experience with comforts: The cabins at Tallulah Gorge State Park combine rustic elements with modern conveniences. "We did a girls backpacking trip to Tallulah Gorge in May. All of the park staff were very friendly, the park was clean, and the weather was beautiful," shares Jessica A.
Family-friendly facilities: Cabins at Mile Creek County Park include family amenities. "Bathhouses were conveniently located. Lots of hills so it was a little hard for the little kids to get around on bikes. We had kids with us age 14 and down to 5 yrs old. You need water shoes for swimming in the lake as it is rocky, but it has a perfect shallow end for little ones," explains Kirsten J.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book cabins near Townville well in advance, especially at Devils Fork State Park. "Reserve well in advance," advises Todd R. Peak booking periods occur from May through September when water activities are most popular.
Limited cell service: Many cabin locations have poor 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," warns Ashley S. about Oconee State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for potential wildlife interactions at cabins. "Posted in my pictures is one of two baggies we found at our site. Being a former corrections officers, I know what I think it is, but I'll leave that to the reader," notes Jay B. about Oconee State Park, while also mentioning, "There were warning signs for bears, but we saw no trace of them."
Tips for camping with families
Pack water shoes: Lake Hartwell and nearby lakes have rocky shorelines. "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," recommends Kirsten J. from Mile Creek County Park.
Consider alternative accommodations: Thousand Trails Carolina Landing offers different cabin options than state parks. "Hands down, the best Thousand Trails campgrounds I've been to. I have visited several since we got the membership and I had been hugely disappointed...until now. It has such a family feel and beautiful grounds, beautiful lake, and easy hook up camp sites," shares Katie D.
Visit nearby attractions: Families staying in cabins can explore regional attractions. "Also you can see fishing boats zoom to their fishing location at night. Peaceful and calming rest from the corporate life!" mentions Benita P. about the Tugaloo State Park area, which is within day-trip distance of many Townville cabin rentals.
Tips from RVers
Check cabin parking: Many cabins have limited parking space for additional vehicles. "We stayed at site 42 lake view and level with a little incline to pad. Best sites 38, 39, 41 and 5. These are right on water with level pads and access to your play toys that you can pull up to the coast," advises Richard F. about Lake Hartwell State Park.
Consider cabin alternatives: The Point at Lake Hartwell offers cabin options for those who normally travel in RVs. "We were in site G4 (which was considered a larger site, we have a 38ft 5th wheel), my nephew was in site F5 & both sites were easy to get into with no issues. Able to kayak right from campsite," shares Jackie J.
Bring your own supplies: Cabin kitchens vary in what's provided. "Campground was good as well, although the spots were a bit small- however each campsite was divided by shrubs and trees so you didn't feel like you were right on top of your neighbor," reports Ashley W. about Carolina Landing.