Lake Hartwell State Park is one of the most widely visited South Carolina areas—and for good reason. The state park is simply overflowing with activity and plenty of ways to spend a weekend (or longer!).

For those who have not visited before, there is some important information you’ll want to consider. Here is everything you need to know about Lake Hartwell State Park.

Important Facts About Lake Hartwell State Park

Here are some basic pieces of information you should be aware of before making a trip to the state park.

Location: The park is located at the SC-GA border off I-85.

Wifi: Wifi is available in the park — although with all the beautiful views and fun outdoor activities, you should not plan on doing much on your wireless device.

Cost: The park makes for an affordable trip as entrance fees are quite low.

1. 15 and younger – free

2. adults – $2

3. seniors $1.25

Pets: Most trained pets are permitted in the outdoor areas, but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after. Additionally, pets are not allowed in the camper cabins.

Contact information: You can reach the state park on their website, via e-mail at lakehartwell@scprt.com or by calling 864-972-3352.

Stay the Night at Lake Hartwell State Park

For those who want to spend longer than a day at the park, there are several lodging options available to you to choose from.

Camp at Lake Hartwell 

If you want to experience rugged nature at it’s best, try camping at the park. There are 13 walk-in tent sites available for use. Additionally, Lake Hartwell State Park has more than 100 campsites. Those who are focused on fishing will be glad to hear that many of these sites have shoreline access for those early prime fishing hours.

Reservations are required for camping and can be made easily online. This video gives a great tour of some of the available campsites along with the pretty views of the lake.

Stay in a Camper Cabin

Lake Hartwell State Park offers one thing that no other park in SC does—cute one-room cabins to camp in! These cabins require a minimum two-day stay and reservations must be made.

You will need to book in advance as they can fill up quickly. Reservations can be made 13 months in advance, but you must at least reserve three days before your stay.

Staying in the cabins allow you all the fun of camping without having to purchase all the gear. It is worth noting that pets are not permitted in the cabin, and a deposit of half the amount owed is due when you make a reservation, with the other half being due when you arrive for your stay.

Fishing at Lake Hartwell State Park

The Lake Hartwell State Park fishing scene is quite diverse. Fishers can choose to fish from the shoreline or take a boat out into the open water in search of their next big catch. There are numerous types of fish found at the lake, including:

1. Large-mouth bass

2. Crappie

3. Striped bass

4. Hybrid bass

5. Bream

6. Catfish

Those who wish to participate in the sport will need to procure a fishing license beforehand. This process is simple to do but required for any fishers.

It’s also worth noting that there are many experienced fishing guides available for hire around the lake. Chartering a guide is a great way to practically guarantee a catch while enjoying a boat.

Lake Hartwell State Park is a great place to host parties and family reunions.

Throw a Party at the Park

If you are looking for an affordable and unique way to host a family reunion, or team celebration, look no further than the state park!

The picnic shelter is ideal for up to 75 people and provides a sheltered spot where you can relax, enjoy views of the water, picnic and make family memories. Reservations are required.

Have Fun with Family-Friendly Activities

Last, but certainly not least, there are plenty of family-friendly activities the entire family will love. Just a few include:

1. Biking

2. Hiking

3. Swimming

4. Cooking over the campfire

5. So much more

This video gives a great overview of just some of the activities you can look forward to at Lake Hartwell State Park.

There you have it – everything you need to know about spending time at Lake Hartwell State Park in South Carolina. What activity are you looking forward to most? 

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