Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Oconee County is a nature lover’s paradise. With its pristine lakes, majestic waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails, this South Carolina gem attracts visitors from all over the country. For those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors, Oconee County campgrounds offer the perfect opportunity to do just that.

Key Takeaways

• Oconee County is a nature lover’s paradise with pristine lakes, majestic waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails.
• Oconee County campgrounds offer a variety of camping styles and preferences, from rustic tent sites to full-service RV hookups.
• This article will provide an overview of popular campgrounds in the area and their facilities and amenities.

Overview of Oconee County Campgrounds

Oconee County is home to several campgrounds that offer a variety of outdoor experiences. Whether you are looking for a quiet retreat or an adventure-packed vacation, there is a campground in Oconee County that will meet your needs.

One of the most popular campgrounds in the area is the Oconee State Park Campground. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this campground offers over 140 campsites, including RV sites, tent sites, and primitive camping areas. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating in the nearby lake.

Another great option is the South Cove County Park Campground. Situated on the shores of Lake Keowee, this campground offers over 80 campsites, as well as a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also has a playground, picnic areas, and a boat ramp.

For those looking for a more secluded camping experience, the Chau Ram County Park Campground is a great choice. This campground is located on the banks of the Chauga River and offers primitive camping sites, as well as a variety of hiking trails and waterfalls to explore.

Overall, Oconee County campgrounds provide a great opportunity to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the natural wonders of South Carolina.

Popular Oconee County Campgrounds

South Cove County Park

South Cove County Park is a popular campground in Oconee County that offers visitors a variety of activities to enjoy. The park is situated on the shores of Lake Keowee and features a boat ramp, fishing pier, and swimming area. There are also several hiking trails that wind through the park’s wooded areas.

The campground at South Cove County Park has 91 campsites, 29 of which offer water and electrical hookups. There are also several primitive campsites available for those who prefer a more rustic camping experience. The campground has several amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a dump station.

Oconee State Park

Oconee State Park is another popular campground in Oconee County. The park is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and features several hiking trails, a swimming area, and a fishing pond.

The campground at Oconee State Park has 140 campsites, 70 of which offer water and electrical hookups. There are also several primitive campsites available for those who prefer a more rustic camping experience. The campground has several amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a dump station.

Chau Ram County Park

Chau Ram County Park is a unique campground in Oconee County that offers visitors a chance to explore the great outdoors. The park features several hiking trails, a swimming area, and a waterfall.

The campground at Chau Ram County Park has 27 campsites, all of which offer water and electrical hookups. There are also several primitive campsites available for those who prefer a more rustic camping experience. The campground has several amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a dump station.

Facilities and Amenities at Campgrounds

Oconee County campgrounds offer a wide range of facilities and amenities to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some of the features you can expect to find at these campgrounds:

• RV sites with full hookups, including water, sewer, and electricity
• Tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings
• Restrooms and showers with hot water
• Laundry facilities
• Dump stations
• Camp stores with basic supplies, snacks, and firewood
• Swimming pools and playgrounds for kids
• Hiking trails and fishing ponds
• WiFi access at some campgrounds

Whether you’re looking for a rustic camping experience or a more luxurious one with all the amenities, Oconee County campgrounds have something for everyone.

Activities at Oconee County Campgrounds

Hiking and Trails

Oconee County Campgrounds offer a variety of hiking trails for visitors to enjoy. The trails range from easy to moderate, and provide opportunities to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area. Some popular trails include the Chau Ram County Park Trail, the Oconee Station Trail, and the Yellow Branch Falls Trail. Visitors can also enjoy guided nature walks and interpretive programs led by park rangers.

Fishing and Boating

With its numerous lakes and rivers, Oconee County is a paradise for anglers and boaters. The county’s campgrounds offer easy access to some of the best fishing spots in the area, including Lake Hartwell, Lake Keowee, and the Chattooga River. Visitors can rent boats and kayaks, or bring their own. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching bass, trout, catfish, and other species.

Wildlife Viewing

Oconee County is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and bald eagles. Visitors to the county’s campgrounds can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year. The county’s parks and nature preserves offer guided wildlife tours and educational programs, providing visitors with a chance to learn about the area’s diverse ecosystem. Birdwatchers can also enjoy spotting a variety of species, including woodpeckers, warblers, and vireos.

Reservations and Pricing

Oconee County campgrounds offer a variety of camping options for visitors, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. Reservations can be made online or by phone. It is recommended to book your site in advance, especially during peak season, as availability can be limited.

Pricing varies depending on the type of site and the length of stay. RV sites start at $25 per night, tent sites start at $20 per night, and cabins start at $75 per night. Discounts may be available for longer stays.

Visitors should note that there is a non-refundable reservation fee of $5 per site. Additionally, there may be additional fees for extra vehicles, pets, or other amenities.

Overall, Oconee County campgrounds offer affordable and convenient camping options for visitors looking to explore the area’s natural beauty.

Rules and Regulations

When staying at Oconee County campgrounds, visitors are expected to follow the rules and regulations of the park. These rules are put in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.

Some of the rules and regulations include:

• Quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM
• No alcohol or drugs allowed
• No smoking in any park building or within 25 feet of any playground or picnic shelter
• No fireworks or firearms allowed
• Pets must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed in park buildings or on swimming beaches
• Campsites must be kept clean and free of litter
• Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings or grills

Visitors who do not follow the rules and regulations may be asked to leave the park without a refund. It is important to read and understand the rules and regulations before arriving at the park to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Reviews and Ratings

Oconee County campgrounds have received mostly positive reviews and ratings from campers. Visitors have praised the campgrounds for their beautiful scenery, peaceful environment, and well-maintained facilities.

One camper wrote, “I’ve been coming to Oconee County campgrounds for years and I always have a great time. The campsites are spacious and clean, and the staff is friendly and helpful.” Another camper added, “The lake views are breathtaking and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore.”

In terms of ratings, Oconee County campgrounds have received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on various camping websites. Visitors have rated the campgrounds highly for their cleanliness, location, and overall value.

It’s important to note that some campers have mentioned minor issues such as noise from nearby roads or lack of privacy between campsites. However, these complaints are relatively rare and do not seem to detract significantly from the overall camping experience at Oconee County campgrounds.

How to Get There

Oconee County campgrounds are located in the state of Georgia, USA. The county is situated in the northeastern part of the state, and it is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane.

By Car: If you are driving from Atlanta, take I-85 North to I-985 North, which will turn into GA-365 North. Continue on GA-365 North until you reach GA-17. Turn left onto GA-17, and you will be in Oconee County. The campgrounds are located throughout the county, so check the specific location of your chosen campground for directions.

By Bus: Greyhound offers bus service to Athens, which is located adjacent to Oconee County. From Athens, you can take a taxi or rent a car to get to the campgrounds.

By Plane: The nearest airport to Oconee County is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which is located approximately 80 miles southwest of the county. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to get to the campgrounds. Alternatively, you can fly into Athens-Ben Epps Airport, which is located approximately 10 miles east of Oconee County. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to get to the campgrounds.

Conclusion

Overall, Oconee County campgrounds offer a great opportunity to experience nature and the outdoors. With a variety of options to choose from, visitors can find the perfect spot to meet their camping needs.

The campgrounds are well-maintained and offer a range of amenities, including picnic areas, hiking trails, and fishing spots. Additionally, the campgrounds are conveniently located near other attractions, such as state parks and historic sites.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing getaway while still having access to modern conveniences, such as electricity and running water. With friendly staff and beautiful scenery, Oconee County campgrounds are a great choice for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Whether you’re an experienced camper or a first-timer, Oconee County campgrounds offer something for everyone. So pack your bags and head out for an adventure in the great outdoors!