Pointes West Camping Area #9

For Georgians who truly cherish the raw beauty of the outdoors and seek a back-to-basics camping experience, Pointes West Camping Area #9 in Appling, GA, offers an exceptional opportunity. As part of the extensive Pointes West Army Resort on the vast J. Strom Thurmond Lake (also widely known as Clarks Hill Lake), Area #9 is designated for primitive tent camping. This means you can immerse yourself fully in nature, enjoying the peaceful sounds of the lake and the rustling leaves, without the distractions of RV hookups or elaborate amenities. It’s a perfect spot for those who prefer to unplug and reconnect with the natural world, all within a convenient drive for many across the state.

Pointes West Army Resort, which encompasses multiple camping areas including the primitive sites of Area #9, is well-regarded among locals, particularly within the military community. The entire resort prides itself on offering "beautiful lake front views" from its campsites, and Area #9 is no exception. This setting provides a tranquil backdrop for traditional tent camping, fishing, and simply enjoying the serenity of the lake. While reviews specifically for Area #9 are less detailed than for the full hookup sections of the resort, the overall sentiment for Pointes West emphasizes its natural beauty, affordability, and its role as a cherished recreational spot, especially for veterans and their families who have been visiting for decades.

Pointes West Camping Area #9 is situated within the larger Pointes West Army Resort, with the general location being MMVQ+8G, Leah, GA 30802, USA. For more precise navigation to the overall resort that manages these areas, the main address is 6703 Washington Road, Appling, GA 30802. This prime location places it directly on the shores of J. Strom Thurmond Lake, a major and popular reservoir that spans the border between Georgia and South Carolina.

The resort is approximately 30 miles from the Augusta area and Fort Eisenhower, making it a highly accessible destination for many Georgians, especially those affiliated with the military. Access to the various camping areas within Pointes West, including Area #9, is straightforward, designed to accommodate visitors eager to reach the lakeside. While primitive sites like those in Area #9 may be nestled more deeply within the natural landscape, the overall resort's layout maximizes lake views, ensuring that even tent campers get to wake up to picturesque water vistas. The rural setting of Appling provides a peaceful escape, yet remains within reasonable driving distance of essential services and attractions in Augusta and surrounding towns.

• Primitive Tent Campsites: Area #9 is specifically designated for primitive camping, meaning it's primarily suited for tents and offers a more rustic experience.

• No Hookups: As a primitive area, individual campsites in Area #9 do not include water, electric, or sewer hookups. Campers should be prepared for a self-sufficient experience.

• Shared Amenities (within the broader resort): While individual sites are primitive, campers at Area #9 have access to shared amenities across the larger Pointes West Army Resort. These likely include:

  • Bathhouses: Access to shared bathhouses with flush toilets and showers (though cleanliness can vary, they are generally available).

  • Dump Stations: Dumpsters and designated dump stations are available elsewhere in the resort (e.g., near full hookup areas or the marina) for waste disposal and tank emptying.

  • Picnic Tables, Grills, and Fire Rings: Primitive sites typically come with a picnic table, a grill, and a fire ring for outdoor cooking and campfires.

  • Boat Ramps and Marina: The resort offers boat ramps for easy lake access, and a marina with slip holders and boat rentals.

  • Laundry Facilities: Decent laundry facilities are available within the wider resort.

  • Seasonally Available Country Store: A camp store typically offers basic supplies.

• Natural Surroundings: The core "service" of primitive camping is the untouched natural environment, allowing for a deep immersion in the forest and lakeside setting.

• Beautiful Lakefront Views: A key highlight of all Pointes West camping areas, including Area #9, is the "beautiful lake front views" of J. Strom Thurmond Lake, providing a stunning natural backdrop for your stay.

• Authentic Primitive Camping Experience: For those who love roughing it, Area #9 offers a true primitive camping experience, encouraging self-reliance and a deeper connection with nature.

• Peaceful and Secluded: Primitive areas often offer more seclusion and quiet compared to full hookup RV sites, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility.

• Affordable Camping: Primitive sites at Pointes West are typically the most budget-friendly option, making outdoor adventures accessible at a lower cost (e.g., $7/night).

• Veteran and Military Friendly: As part of the Pointes West Army Resort, this area is particularly welcoming and suitable for veterans and their families, often with specific access and pricing for authorized users.

• Extensive Water Activities: Direct access to Clarks Hill Lake provides ample opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming in designated areas.

• Hiking Opportunities: The natural setting offers various trails for hiking and exploring the surrounding forest.

• Wildlife Observation: Being immersed in nature means opportunities for observing local wildlife, enhancing the outdoor experience.

As a component of the Pointes West Army Resort, Pointes West Camping Area #9's "promotions" are primarily tied to its affiliation with military services. These special rates are a significant value proposition for eligible Georgians:

• Military and Veteran Discounts: The resort offers lower camping prices for authorized users, including Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, Retired Military, Disabled American Veterans (0-100% DAV), Purple Heart Recipients, Former POWs, Veteran Caregivers, and DoD Civilians. These discounts are applied to the various site types across the resort, including the affordable primitive sites.

• Affordable Base Rates: Even without specific military discounts, the standard rate for primitive sites like those in Area #9 is notably low (e.g., $7/night), making it an inherently cost-effective camping option for any Georgian.

Reservations are required and can typically be made up to 180 days (6 months) in advance. It is strongly recommended to visit the official Fort Eisenhower MWR (Moral, Welfare, and Recreation) website or call the resort directly for the most current pricing, availability, and specific eligibility requirements for military and veteran discounts. These terms can be subject to change and require valid military ID for verification.

Address: The specific site for Area #9 is MMVQ+8G, Leah, GA 30802, USA. For the main resort office and reservations, the primary address is 6703 Washington Road, Appling, GA 30802.

Phone: (706) 541-1057 (This is the primary number for Pointes West Army Resort, which manages all camping areas.)

For Georgians who are drawn to the rugged beauty of the outdoors and seek an authentic, no-frills camping experience, Pointes West Camping Area #9 is an exceptionally suitable choice. Its designation as a primitive, tent-only campground means it caters specifically to those who love to truly immerse themselves in nature, without the added comforts (or distractions) of RV hookups. This appeals to a specific segment of our local community – the purists, the minimalists, and those looking to truly unplug.

The primary appeal for locals, beyond the primitive charm, is the unparalleled access to J. Strom Thurmond Lake. As a Georgian, having the opportunity to camp right by the water, with "beautiful lake front views," for such an affordable price (around $7/night), is a significant draw. This makes it an accessible option for frequent weekend getaways or longer, budget-friendly adventures. For military families and veterans in Georgia, the Pointes West Army Resort, and by extension Area #9, holds a special place. It’s a dedicated space that recognizes their service, often with specific access and pricing, fostering a sense of community and belonging that is invaluable.

While the primitive nature means fewer amenities at the individual site, the broader resort provides necessary facilities like bathhouses and dump stations within reach. This allows campers to enjoy the wildness of Area #9 while still having essential conveniences nearby. For Georgians eager to escape the hustle and bustle, embrace traditional camping, and enjoy the vast recreational opportunities of Clarks Hill Lake, Pointes West Camping Area #9 offers a genuine, affordable, and incredibly peaceful outdoor sanctuary.