Lake Hartwell provides the backdrop for rv campgrounds Westminster, South Carolina and surrounding areas. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the region typically sees mild winters with average low temperatures in the 30s and warm summers with highs in the upper 80s. The Westminster area includes several campgrounds within 20 miles of town, many with lake access for water recreation opportunities during the peak summer season.
What to do
Hiking nearby: Currahee Mountain offers a challenging hiking option just a short drive from Currahee RV Park. "This is a nice, clean, conveniently located, well maintained campground. It's near enough to Toccoa for the restaurants and shops and the museum but it's far enough off the track so that there's no traffic noise or other annoyances," reports one visitor who spent over a week exploring the area.
Lake activities: Access Lake Hartwell at The Point at Lake Hartwell where water recreation options include swimming and boating. "Quiet. On the lake. Diamond in the rough...though more of a piece of coal than a diamond but that is okay, not into fancy and all the amenities, we camp to get away from society," notes one camper who appreciated the low-key atmosphere.
Local attractions: Visit downtown Franklin, NC while staying at Riverbend RV Park-Campground. "Staying here you will be super close to some amazing hiking and also the many activities on the Cullasaja river. You can easily go out for the night in Franklin and explore the rest of the beautiful area," shares a camper who enjoyed the convenience of this location.
What campers like
Heated amenities: During cooler months, Willow Valley RV Resort offers comfort with "one being that the pool is heated!" according to a recent visitor. The campground also features "super fast WiFi so didn't need our tailgater and just used the smart TVs. Bath houses are clean."
Holiday activities: Thousand Trails Carolina Landing organizes special events during 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 one satisfied guest who appreciated the scheduled programming.
Peace and quiet: Many Westminster area campgrounds offer a break from busy environments. At Willow Valley RV Resort, campers note the "Very reasonable rates. Best owners you could possibly ask for. Great restrooms and laundry room. Best internet anywhere around." The campground maintains a balance between amenities and natural setting.
What you should know
Cell service quality: Mobile connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. Willow Valley RV Resort gets high marks for communications with "great cell phones, signal Verizon and AT&T works really good," helpful for campers who need to stay connected.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some locations. At Thousand Trails Carolina Landing, one camper reported: "Our site- A5- was super unlevel. I felt unsafe with our fifth wheel's two left tires up in the air after auto-leveling. That was a first for us, and hope we never have to do that again."
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds in the Westminster area require advance bookings, with Thousand Trails parks operating on a first-come, first-serve basis for site selection. "We arrived a little late to the RV park, and the office closes at 5:00. I find that strange since it was in the middle of the summer. The whole check-in process is a little strange for this RV park."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Crooked Creek RV Park & Marina offers activities for children including "pool and playground is great. We will return during the summer months for sure. A golf cart is helpful to have, or bikes," reports a repeat visitor.
Activity options: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment. Willow Valley RV Resort features "many activities to keep family members occupied, including a playground, basketball, corn hole, soccer nets, community fire pit (you can rent a private firepit), and in-season, a pool."
Transportation around campgrounds: Many Westminster area campgrounds are spread out. "The campground is nice. If you have a boat, it's convenient to be able to dock your boat at the on site marina. The store is handy for snacks or last minute necessities. Our son likes to get ice cream there," notes a family who appreciates the on-site conveniences at Crooked Creek RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Thousand Trails Carolina Landing, "The lower section of the park is tight and can be difficult to get into a site, roads are very narrow." RVers recommend requesting sites in less congested areas if traveling with larger rigs.
Hookup variations: Check which utilities are available at specific sites. One RVer at The Point at Lake Hartwell reported that despite expectations, "When we turned in I immediately noticed the new & improved changes to the campground! They have a new name/new owners & they have done some major improvements & you can tell they care about the property!"
Arrival timing: Plan to arrive during office hours. One RVer warns about Thousand Trails Carolina Landing: "We arrived a little late to the RV park, and the office closes at 5:00. I find that strange since it was in the middle of the summer." This timing can affect check-in procedures at many Westminster area rv campgrounds.
