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Fair Play · Greenville · South Carolina4.5(1530)

Lake Hartwell State Park

Outdoor
Recreation
Landmark

Known For

  • Waterfront campsites
  • Kayak access/launches
  • Fishing pier
  • Camper cabins
  • Nature trail

Insider Tips

Best Time

Weekdays for quieter camping; sunset for lake views; fall for cooler weather and leaf color.

Ideal For

Family camping tripsKayaking adventuresFishing getawaysNature photography

Pro Tip

"Pick a site along Lakepoint Loop for direct kayak launch and sunrise views."

Lake Hartwell State Park is located just off I-85 along the South Carolina-Georgia border. The park provides public access to the 56,000-acre Lake Hartwell, and is perfect for outdoor activities of all kinds. Lake Hartwell, created in 1962, is most well known as a renowned fishing haven for anglers across the region. This large lake is inhabited by striped and hybrid bass, largemouth, crappie, bream, and catfish. The professional, 3-day Bassmaster Classic tournament was held at Lake Hartwell in 2008, 2015, and 2018. The park offers 2 boat ramps and a newly installed courtesy dock for visitors. The park's visitor center has a display of vintage fishing equipment and sells basic camping supplies and souvenirs. This park also includes a short hiking trail through the lovely pine and oak forests that line the edge of the lake. The trail is a great place to go birdwatching for hawks and owls. Visitors can stay at one of two cabins with an outdoor water spigot, fire ring, and grill.

Price Level

$$

Contact

+1 864-972-3352

Outdoor Seating

Reservations Available

Hours

  • Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Drifter Insights

Major destination with tourist appeal

TripAdvisor: Top 10% (#1 of 6)

Popular With

CouplesFamiliesSolo Travelers

Tourist Awareness

LevelHigh

TripAdvisor: #1 of 6 things to do in Fair Play

Data confidence: high(5 sources)