Did you know one of the most-visited and popular lakes in the Southeast is right here in South Carolina? Lake Hartwell doles out 56,000 acres of water surface on (and in) which to play – along with a whopping 962 miles of shoreline. In comparison, nearby Lake Jocassee (another of the best lakes in South Carolina) has only 7,500 acres of surface and 75 miles of shoreline! While recreation like fishing and swimming are certainly fun, camping on Lake Hartwell is also a special experience that many Palmetto State residents and visitors enjoy. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for lake camping in South Carolina, and Lake Hartwell camping is among the best.

If you've ever traveled to or even driven over Lake Hartwell, then you won't deny the allure of this massive body of water.
Bryan Powell / 500px Collection via Getty Images
But did you know the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates a total of eight campgrounds with approximately 500 campsites along the shores of Lake Hartwell? The Corps is constantly receiving accolades all around the country for its management of recreation areas and those in South Carolina are no different. The Corps' campgrounds are impeccably clean, well-managed, and wonderful places to stay. In fact, they might just be the best campgrounds on Lake Hartwell - or in South Carolina at all!
Each year, millions of visitors set up camp within the eight Corps campgrounds on Lake Hartwell.
Google/Tphigh 115
One of them, Twin Lakes Campground, has more than 150 sites by the lake. These sites offer some of the most scenic lake camping in South Carolina.
With flora whose underbelly has been carefully carved out so the campsites have stunning views of the water, there is scarcely a site that doesn't have a wide glimpse of the sun shimmering on the water's surface.
Google/Darryl A
Pull up, set up camp just the way you like it, and then pull out the chairs and prepare for some serious shore surfing with your favorite beverage in hand.
Google/BR Smith
Among the amenities found at Twin Lakes Campground are a boat ramp, a playground, swim beach, and hours and hours of serenity.

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This campground also offers a few special "double sites" for those traveling with large families that need a little extra space.
Google/Chasity Green
All of the sites have electric and water hookups, and most of them are located right on the edge of the water.
Ready to spend a relaxing weekend at the best spot for camping on Lake Hartwell?
Google/Vicky Sherrill
You can learn more about Twin Lakes Campground and other Corps campgrounds from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Camping is a great way to put down your screens and get outside and play. We all need to reconnect with nature more often!
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Are you ready to reconnect with nature and loved ones? Book your campsite today and experience lake camping in South Carolina.

Make reservations and even pick your own site right from the map and start planning your outdoor adventure.

Looking for even more awesome camping? Check out these primitive campsites in South Carolina with incredible views.

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Lake Camping in South Carolina

Jackie Ann | July 07, 2022

Where can I go camping in South Carolina with no reservations?

Sometimes spontaneity just gets the best of us and you just pack a bag, grab your tent, and head off into the tree line. While there are many campgrounds in South Carolina that offer both primitive camping and rustic cabins, we should mention that it’s always best to call ahead and ensure there’s a space for you before you drive over. With that being said, there are a few campgrounds in South Carolina that will most likely have availability, like the Longleaf Campground in Congaree National Park. And you can’t beat the views at Devils Fork State Park. Nestled along the shores of Lake Jocassee, this state park offers some of the most stunning waterfront camping in South Carolina

Which are the best state parks in South Carolina?

Whether you’re looking for a new hiking trail or a fishing hole, South Carolina’s 47 state parks are where you’ll find it.

  • With ocean views and endless hiking trails, it’s no wonder why Edisto Beach State Park is one of the most beloved state parks in South Carolina.
  • The waterfront camping found at Huntington Beach State Park attracts visitors from all over the coast.
  • If you want to escape the crowds, visit Hamilton Branch State Park, one of our favorite South Carolina hidden gems when it comes to state parks.

 

Can I camp right on the water in South Carolina?

If you’re dreaming of waking up to a waterfront view, South Carolina is the place for you.

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Featured Addresses
Twin Lakes Campground, 140 Winnebago Trail, Pendleton, SC 29670, USA