Do you know the name of the most visited state park in the Palmetto State? That’s an easy one to at least guess. Of course it’s one of the five state parks on the beach: Hunting Island State Park. And what a beautiful destination any time of year. But what about the lesser-known parks in the system? How much do you know about Hamilton Branch State Park in South Carolina? Come along with us now to find out a little more about this hidden gem on the western border of the state.
It may not be the beach, but Hamilton Branch State Park is not without eye-popping water views of its own!
Hamilton Branch State Park opened in 1972 and the state did a wonderful job of carving the campsites right into the flora of the forest and getting so many of them close to the water. You'll likely have no troubles securing a site that wows everyone in the family.
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Whether you bring a camper, an RV, or a tent, the campground here is equipped with everything you need for a pleasurable experience.
And in 2021, the park debuted a new peninsula camping area (in Area H) with exclusive tent-only sites, including a premier site at the end of the The Point where campers have some added amenities. But the best part could be that you're surrounded on three sides by beautiful Lake Strom Thurmond.
Lake Strom Thurmond, for those who aren't from South Carolina, is a reservoir created from damming up the Savannah River and four other rivers. Technically, it's the 3rd largest man-made lake east of the Mississippi. And since South Carolina is on the eastern shoreline of the Savannah River... that means the campground faces the west making for unbelievable sunsets - over the water.
Next, the many lagoons along Lake Strom Thurmond are perfect for exploring via arm power (that's kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes, by the way).
Have a bigger vessel with an engine? There are two ramps for launching located right in the state park. It couldn't be any easier to spend a beautiful day on the water here.
Need more to do? How about hiking (two great trails; one of them perfect for biking, too!), a playground, picnic shelters, bird watching, fishing, and even bike rentals at the park office round out a long list of activities you'll find at the park.
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And let's not forget swimming! In many cases, visitors are able to swim right in front of their own camp site.
Please note: swimming is at your own risk. The state does not provide life guards.
Go ahead. Check out Hamilton Branch State Park in South Carolina. It’s right on Lake Strom Thurmond. Chances are great that you’ll love this underrated gem.
