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Lake Hartwell
Overview
Lake Hartwell State Park in Fair Play, SC, serves as a serene gateway for travelers entering South Carolina from the Georgia border. This expansive state facility provides a quiet, nature-focused environment centered around one of the region's most popular reservoirs. Known for its scenic lakeside views and mature forest canopy, the park offers a classic state park experience that prioritizes conservation and outdoor recreation. It is a well-regarded destination for those who appreciate a slower pace and direct access to the water.
Location & Surroundings
The park is strategically positioned in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, nestled right on the shores of the 56,000-acre Lake Hartwell. While it feels like a secluded woodland retreat, it is remarkably accessible, located just off Interstate 85. The surrounding geography is defined by rolling hills and dense hardwood forests that provide excellent shade for the campsites. Visitors can enjoy the unique transition where the mountain foothills meet the massive expanse of the Savannah River basin.
Amenities & Park Features
RVers will find well-maintained sites equipped with water and electrical hookups, accommodating various rig sizes from small campers to larger motorhomes. The park is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, featuring a dual-lane boat ramp and a dedicated fishing pier. On land, the Beech Bluff Trail offers a moderate hiking challenge through the woods. Additional facilities include a dump station, picnic shelters for large gatherings, and a playground, ensuring a comfortable stay for long-term guests and weekenders alike.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the park's boundaries, the local area offers a variety of excursions. History buffs and sports fans often make the short drive to Clemson University to explore the campus or attend a game. The nearby Stumphouse Tunnel and various waterfalls in Oconee County provide excellent day-trip opportunities for hikers. For those looking for urban amenities, the city of Anderson is close by, offering local dining and shopping options that complement the outdoor lifestyle found at the state park.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal match for anglers and boaters who want to maximize their time on the water without leaving their base camp. It also serves as an excellent choice for families seeking an educational nature experience away from the distractions of modern resorts. Furthermore, because of its proximity to the interstate, it is a top-tier stopover for cross-country RVers who want a beautiful, safe, and quiet place to rest before continuing their journey.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Internet
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Violet Stephens
The Lake was pretty and quiet, camping spaces were super tight. very little privacy. Grounds were clean and well kept. Other campers were nice and people were respectful. Bath houses were cleanish but a little run down. No paper towels. The shower I used was warm - nice to have a warm shower. Biggest problem with the showers was the curtains were almost 2 feet of space to see under from the ground to the bottom of the curtain. The warmer shower curtain had a little mold and was cut and torn so it didn't really close, but there was an outer curtain that was wayyy too high (2ft gap to the floor). The wall probably wouldn't have been in such bad repair if the shower curtain actually protected it. Water splashed all over the area you are supposed to dress in. For the price I paid (nearly $300 for 3 nights to TENT CAMP), I thought they probably could afford to fix the shower house a bit. The worst part was the horrible displays everywhere of blood and skeletons, bloody hands sticking out of the ground in the ditches and fake spiders and cobwebs everywhere. A celebration of death. Very strange for a family camp.
Pearl Stephens
Pretty camping area with decent parking spots. I personally think that most of the camps were too close to the neighbors' space. Also, we did not appreciate the Halloween things everywhere. Fun lake to play in and on! Bath house was reasonably clean and TP was kept stocked. There are blow dryers for hands. Shower curtains should be a bit lower. The water from the shower splashes into the dressing room and gets some of your things damp. The curtain between the first shower and its dressing room was ripped, so both areas got wet. Cabins look pretty cute. We had an RV site, so we had water and electric.
Brandy Gibbs
We had a great time. We stayed near the camping boat ramp so we could kayak easily! The only downside to this park is the roads. They are in need of repair. We did not use wash house facilities so can’t say anything about those.
Hannah Rogers Photography
My client wanted a lake senior session so we made out way here! Her gallery turned out gorgeous with the sunset background. The lake made the heat of summer no so bad.
Dacks
We are camping in a 35 foot 5th wheel. The roads for us are narrow and full of potholes. There are low hanging branches all around, but especially at the dump station. We were inches from the edge of the pavement, and there is sometimes a 3 to 6 inch drop-off next to the paved roads and sites. The views are great but not worth the hassle for us. They allow tent campers in the rv section, even when there are plenty of tent sites available. Again, Hartwell Lake is AMAZING and we love the area, but for bigger rvs, this place is kinda sketch.