Twin Lakes Campground

Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Hartwell, Twin Lakes Campground in Pendleton, SC, offers an exceptional escape for anyone in South Carolina seeking a refreshing outdoor experience. This highly-regarded campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is a beloved destination for both seasoned campers and those new to the joys of nature. With its abundant natural beauty, comprehensive amenities, and prime location, Twin Lakes provides the perfect setting for families, friends, and solo adventurers to unwind, reconnect, and create cherished memories amidst the stunning landscapes of Upstate South Carolina.

Twin Lakes is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a vibrant hub of outdoor activity. Imagine waking up to the tranquil sounds of birds, with the sun dappling through dense pines and hardwoods, and the shimmering waters of Lake Hartwell just steps from your campsite. Whether your passion lies in fishing, boating, swimming, or simply enjoying a peaceful evening by the campfire, this campground caters to a wide array of outdoor interests. Its consistent high occupancy rates throughout the year speak volumes about its popularity and the quality of experience it offers. The careful separation of camping and day-use areas ensures a peaceful and enjoyable environment for all visitors, preventing conflicts and enhancing your stay.

The commitment to maintaining a pristine and inviting environment is evident across the 152-acre recreation area. From the meticulously kept campsites to the well-maintained comfort stations, every detail is considered to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay. As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility, Twin Lakes Campground upholds a reputation for high standards in both its facilities and its dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the Lake Hartwell region. For South Carolina locals, it represents a convenient yet comprehensive outdoor haven, ideal for both short weekend getaways and extended vacations.

Twin Lakes Campground is ideally situated at 140 Winnebago Trail, Pendleton, SC 29670, USA. This prime location places it on the east shore of Lake Hartwell, just five miles south of Clemson, South Carolina. The proximity to Clemson University not only offers additional tourism opportunities but also ensures easy access to essential amenities like grocery stores, gas stations, and a variety of dining options, making your camping trip convenient and stress-free.

Access to Twin Lakes Campground is straightforward. From Interstate 85, which runs between Atlanta, Georgia, and Greenville, South Carolina, take Exit 14 onto Highway 187. Continue past the Clemson Research Center, then turn left onto Fants Grove Road. Follow Fants Grove Road north to Twin Lakes Road (also known as State Road S-39-150), and turn left to head west towards the recreation area. The park and campground entrances are clearly signed and located on the right side of Twin Lakes Road. Winnebago Trail is the first access road leading directly to the campground areas.

Lake Hartwell itself is a massive man-made reservoir, straddling the border of Georgia and South Carolina, fed by the Savannah, Tugaloo, and Seneca Rivers. With an impressive 962 miles of shoreline, the lake offers countless opportunities for water-based recreation. The surrounding terrain is characterized by gentle to moderate slopes, blanketed by a dense mix of pine and hardwood trees, providing ample natural shade for campsites and creating a serene, forested atmosphere. The campground's strategic position provides excellent access to the lake's vast waters, making it a perfect base for all your aquatic adventures.

• 102 Public Campsites: Twin Lakes Campground offers 102 individual campsites, accommodating both RVs and tents. While the campground experiences high occupancy, many sites are spacious and offer a good degree of seclusion.

• Electric and Water Hookups: All campsites are equipped with electric hookups (including 30 and 50 amp service) and potable water hookups, providing essential conveniences for a comfortable stay.

• Sewer Hookups: One site is noted to have a sewer hookup, while two main dump stations are available for all RV users within the campground, ensuring convenient waste disposal.

• Comfort Stations with Showers: Five well-maintained comfort stations with showers are distributed throughout the campground, offering clean and accessible restroom facilities.

• Boat Launch Ramp and Courtesy Dock: A two-lane paved boat launch ramp and a courtesy dock are provided, offering easy and convenient access to Lake Hartwell for boating and water sports enthusiasts.

• Playgrounds: Five dedicated playground areas are available within the campground, ensuring plenty of entertainment for children and families.

• Designated Swim Area/Beach: A clearly marked swim area and sandy beach provide a safe and enjoyable place for campers to cool off and enjoy the lake during warm weather.

• Campsite Amenities: Each campsite features a picnic table, lantern post, fire ring with a grill, and a paved pad, enhancing your outdoor living and cooking experience.

• Trash Collection: Regular trash collection with dumpsters located conveniently throughout the campground helps maintain cleanliness.

• On-site Park Attendant: Park attendants are available on-site, providing assistance and ensuring a smooth experience for campers.

• Lake Hartwell Access: The campground’s primary highlight is its direct access to Lake Hartwell, a massive and beautiful lake perfect for a wide range of water activities.

• Waterfront and Shady Sites: Many of the 102 campsites are waterfront (79 sites) or offer lake views, and all are shaded by a dense canopy of pine and hardwood trees, providing a cool and comfortable environment.

• Managed by US Army Corps of Engineers: This ensures a well-maintained, clean, and safe environment, with consistent management practices.

• Year-Round Operation: Twin Lakes Campground is open year-round, though some sites may be closed during the winter months (specifically, sites 25-58 and the bathhouse near site 25 remain open year-round).

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash (no longer than 6 feet) and are prohibited on swim beaches, playgrounds, and in restrooms. Campers are required to clean up after their pets.

• Excellent Fishing: Lake Hartwell is a renowned fishing destination, offering opportunities to catch largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, striped bass, and hybrid bass.

• Boating and Water Sports Paradise: With a two-lane boat ramp and vast waters, the lake is ideal for all types of boating, water skiing, kayaking, and canoeing.

• Hiking and Biking Opportunities: While there are no specific hiking trails within the campground itself, multiple trails snake throughout the broader shoreline area, and the nearby South Carolina Botanical Gardens (on the Clemson University grounds) offer free-to-access trails.

• Proximity to Clemson: Being just five miles from Clemson, campers can easily explore the university town, its restaurants, and other attractions.

• Good Cell Service: Visitors typically report good cell service within the campground, allowing for connectivity while enjoying nature.

• High Occupancy Rates: This indicates the campground's immense popularity and positive reputation among campers.

As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility, Twin Lakes Campground accepts federal interagency passes. These include the Interagency Senior Pass and the Interagency Access Pass, which typically offer a 50% discount on single-family campsites (though usually excluding hookup fees). It is always advisable for potential campers to check the official booking platform, Recreation.gov, for the most up-to-date information on pricing, availability, and any specific seasonal promotions or discounts that might be offered. Booking well in advance, especially for peak seasons (April to November), is highly recommended due to the campground's high popularity and occupancy rates.

For reservations and further inquiries about Twin Lakes Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 140 Winnebago Trail, Pendleton, SC 29670, USA (This is the specific campground address)

Reservations: Toll-free 877-444-6777

TDD: 877-833-6777

International: 518-885-3639

General Questions/Comments/Mailing Address (Hartwell Dam & Lake Office, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers):

5625 Anderson Hwy, Hartwell, Georgia 30643

Phone: 706-856-0300 or 888-893-0678

The most efficient way to secure a campsite is typically through the official online reservation system at www.recreation.gov.

For South Carolina locals, Twin Lakes Campground on Lake Hartwell is more than just a camping spot; it's an accessible and enriching outdoor sanctuary right in their backyard. Its convenient location near Pendleton and Clemson means less time traveling and more time enjoying the great outdoors. The year-round availability, especially the section open through winter, provides consistent opportunities for spontaneous getaways or planned vacations regardless of the season.

The abundance of amenities, including electric and water hookups at every site, numerous comfort stations with showers, multiple playgrounds, and designated swim areas, makes it particularly suitable for families. Parents can relax knowing there are safe and engaging activities for children, while the tranquil setting appeals to those seeking peace and quiet. The positive feedback from past campers frequently highlights the "beautiful" and "spotless" grounds, the "clean bathrooms," and the "quiet, peaceful campsites" that are often right next to the water. The spaciousness of the sites and the sense of safety also come up as significant positives.

Lake Hartwell itself is a major draw, offering unparalleled opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, making Twin Lakes a dream destination for water enthusiasts. The consistent management by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ensures a well-maintained and reliable experience, fostering a sense of trust and familiarity for regular visitors. For those who appreciate the beauty of the Upcountry and the convenience of modern camping, Twin Lakes Campground truly offers the best of both worlds. It provides a natural retreat where you can disconnect from daily stresses and immerse yourself in South Carolina's stunning landscapes, all within a short drive from home. It's an ideal choice for creating new family traditions or simply finding your personal haven in nature.