The best camping near Hamilton Branch State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hamilton Branch State Park adventure.

100% (3 reviews)
100% (3 reviews)

Discover the serene lakeside retreat of Hamilton Branch State Park.  

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Community favorites near Hamilton Branch State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Hamilton Branch State Park

100%
(61)

Utopia Farm Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · Leesville, SC
My husband Ray and I purchased this property in 1982 when we made this our home. We raised two wonderful children who have moved on to pursue their own careers. Now we are retired and enjoy farming and ranching. We are a couple of miles away from Lake Murray, built in 1920's, and displaced thousands of families, farms, towns, churches, and schools. There are still homes, graveyards, Wise Ferry Bridge still underwater. A B-25 Mitchell plane crashed into the Lake during WWII. Our traffic circle was accidentally bombed one Oct. night in 1944. Learn more about this land: We are a working farm of grass-fed beef, free-range laying hens and ducks, seasonal vegetables; fruits, honey hives, goats, donkeys and horses. We are surrounded by families who have lived on their land for many generations. No subdivisions. Great place to star gaze without street lights. We have 2 sites with water and electricity for camping. Our large barn has a full kitchen, full bath and den area for campers to share. Yet, we are just a few miles from 2 boat ramps on Lake Murray which offers fishing and boating. Also, we are just 30 miles from metropolitan Columbia, historic Newberry, and 15 miles from the town of Lexington, SC. The Capital City of Columbia, just 30 miles east, offers Riverbanks Zoo, Richland County’s Congaree National Park, Saluda Shoals Park, EdVenture Children’s Museum. The Newberry Opera House is 36 miles away and The Big Mo Drive-in Theatre is in Monetta, 13 miles. Indian Trail Public Golf Course is 15 miles in Leesville. Or just hang out at the farm, view the animals, or fish in our pond. We have stalls available for equestrian travelers and a trail around the property to walk or ride your horse. Pets must be on lease or voice control and poop scooping is not an option. No WiFi yet.
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

The best camping near Hamilton Branch State Park guide

Overview

About

It’s tough to think of a more awesome place than Hamilton Branch State Park. It borders the 70,000 acre Lake Thurmond, after all! Take on the massive lake by fishing, swimming, and boating around. Looking to stay dry? Explore the area on the trails provided, on foot or bike! Go to the park office to check out one of the many games on hand: horseshoes, bean bags, kickballs, soccer balls, frisbees, basically anything for a fun time outdoors. Hamilton Branch knows what’s up.

Notable campgrounds

  • The Burrow: A new buddy campsite offering stunning sunset views and a sense of secluded lakeside paradise.
  • Lakefront Camping: Spacious sites along the shoreline, perfect for fishing and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
  • Primitive Group Sites: Ideal for organized groups looking to connect with nature in a rustic setting.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, especially for peak seasons, to secure your ideal lakeside spot.
  • Consider weekday camping for more availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities.
  • Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations when the park is full.

When to go

The best time to visit Hamilton Branch State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winter can be less crowded but check for any seasonal closures.

Know before you go

  • Check for any advisories, such as forest management activities, which may affect certain areas of the park.
  • Park hours are from 6am to sunset, with the office open from 9am to 5pm.
  • Admission fees are $3 for adults, $1.50 for SC seniors, and $1 for children aged 6-15.
  • Pets must be kept on a leash not longer than six feet and noisy or dangerous pets may be asked to leave.
  • Wifi and EV charging stations are available for visitor convenience.

Top points of interest near Hamilton Branch State Park

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