The best camping near J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park adventure.

50% (2 reviews)
50% (2 reviews)

Discover the scenic J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park

98%
(69)

Lizardsniffer

6 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · White Plains, GA
Check out our two new wooded RV sites in January for ONE DOLLAR! Wilbur and Templeton. Lizardsniffer is a working horse farm with a variety of rental cabins and RV slips. We DO allow tent camping. Each RV slip has water, septic, 50 amp service and Wifi. An Amenities Cabin is provided for use by all RV site guests. The cabin includes a full-sized washer/dryer, a full bathroom with bidet, and an oversized jacuzzi tub. Guests must sign-up for a 4-hour timeslot. The cabin is available for use between the hours of 8am-8pm. Many of our RV sites feature private fenced paddocks for people bringing their horses or dogs. Horse visitors require all current paperwork (Coggins, etc.). Dog visitors must be social and friendly and thus are allowed to explore the farm with their owners off-leash if desired. The property includes miles of trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. Bring your own horse or experienced riders may be able to ride one of ours (subject to weight/experience matching with a horse). There is a small private stocked lake open to all guests of Lizardsniffer for fishing and swimming. At the lake you will find an amenities cabin called Glowy Bobber that has a full bathroom and outdoor shower as well as Kayaks and floats for guest use.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
95%
(28)

Animal Sanctuary on the Lake

5 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Abbeville, SC
We have 12 acres to share with you! Our Animal Sanctuary has been a rescue/sanctuary for over 30 years. We have plenty of different areas where you can camp either private or not so private, woods you can explore, lake within walking/biking distance, boat rental, boat dock, fishing, even help with animal care if you are interested. Plenty to do or nothing to do! Peaceful, quiet and relaxing place to enjoy! Learn more about this land: Various sites on level farm/ranch land totaling the 12 acres of our domestic animal sanctuary.  Sites located near Lake Secession.  Great fishing on the lake and boat rental available.  Quiet nights, camp fires and peaceful settings.  We are located just 15 minutes from the southern quaintness of historical Abbeville.  In under an hour you can visit the shopping and events around the growing city of beautiful Greenville, SC.   Enjoy a short day trip to the Clemson University campus area and it's surrounding attractions. We are only 40 minutes from Denver Downs Farms where there are a lot of exciting festivals and events throughout the year.  In just about 2 hours you can be in the Asheville area where you can enjoy and take in the local attractions and gorgeous mountain views.  Another short jaunt into Georgia takes you to Hartwell and it's quaint southern atmosphere near Lake Hartwell.  Additional short trips and you'll find more water, fishing, fun and sights on scenic Lake Russell and the Savannah River.  You are also welcome to hang out here on the property with us too and enjoy visiting our animals.  ASK ABOUT OUR SANCTUARY TOURS. We have horses, donkeys, cows, pigs (lots of pigs!), chickens, dogs, cats, birds and turtles!  Come visit us!   We look forward to meeting you and sharing a bit of our genuine southern hospitality!  
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$69.30
 / night

Whenua Farm. Pronouced “Fen-nua”.

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Leesville, SC
Kia Ora, or Hello. Welcome to Whenua Farm. This is a small 5 acre, soon to be micro farm just out side Lexington SC. We bought this property recently and have begun renovating the existing home, building garden beds and clearing some of the surrounding woods. The RV site has Full hook up includes sewer, power and water. Some RV leveling is needed but site is compacted sand soil mix as seen in pictures. Site is 25 min to Lexington Medical Center and township & 30 min to Columbia SC and its area hospitals. Large site 28x50 surrounded by woods and look to the neighboring pond, not part of our property. Perfect for travel nurses or similar. Very quiet, private and peaceful. 10 min to small town Walmart and local bars and restaurants. Lake Murray is approx 20 min away and provides access to boat ramps, boat rentals, marinas and such. There is local vegetable stands in the surrounding area and many offer fresh eggs. Lexington SC borders Columbia with the Saluda river running between the two cities. Saluda river offers trout fishing, river walks and river adventures with local outfitters. Columbia SC offers many attractions including University of SC Gamecock games, Riverbanks Zoo and Colonial Life Arena. Owner lives on property. Dog friendly for those who clean up after their pet.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

The best camping near J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park guide

Overview

About

Lake Strom Thurmond, J. Strom Thurmond Dam, Clarks Hill Lake—whatever you call this place, it’s a spot you need to see. Besides being one of the southeast’s largest lakes, at 71,000 acres, this dam hooks up the three major rivers that make Georgia and South Carolina BFFs. If the summer heat is beatin’ you up, take a peaceful walk along the Lake Springs Loop, feel the cool spray from your wake on the lake, or just dive right into those perfect blue waters. Ah, the Savannah River sounds nice right about now! This is one of the most visited lakes in the nation, and for good reason, so you’ll be in mighty fine company when you make it here.

Notable campgrounds

  • Bussey Point: A tranquil retreat for those seeking a primitive camping experience amid lush greenery.
  • LeRoy's Ferry: Offers a rustic and peaceful camping atmosphere, perfect for reconnecting with nature.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early through Recreation.gov to secure your spot at this popular destination.
  • Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute openings.
  • Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations when the park is full.

When to go

The best time to visit J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm temperatures ideal for water activities, though it can be crowded. Winters are less crowded but cooler, with some facilities possibly closed.

Know before you go

  • Check the current boat ramp status online before planning your water activities.
  • Be aware of wildlife and practice safety precautions while exploring the park.
  • Accessibility varies across different areas of the park; plan accordingly.
  • Stay informed about any road or area closures due to maintenance or weather conditions.
  • Remember to bring cash for the camping fee, as it remains $10 per night.

Top us army corps of engineers (coe) recreation areas near J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park

Top cities near J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park

Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.