Bussey Point Campground

J. Strom Thurmond Lake

Enjoy nature at its finest. Located at the entrance of Bussey Point wilderness recreation area- a 2,545 acre peninsula on J. Strom Thurmond Lake- the campground provides a relaxing getaway for the nature enthusiast for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. The Bussey Point horse trail was created by horseback riders for horseback riders. This trail circles the peninsula and is 12.5 miles long. Along with the horse trail, there are an additional 20 miles of roads and trails located within the area that all are welcome to use (no motor vehicles please). Located within the area are 15 food plots, six hike/bike/ride/boat in camping/picnic sites, and several natural beaches. Ample deer and turkey inhabit the area along wiht other mammals and birds to provide one of the best opportunities on the lake to view wildlife in its natural setting. Adjacent to the area is the campground with 14 primitive campsites without water or electic, however, there are picnic tables, fire rings, and grills located at each site. There is also a boat launching ramp, hand pump for non-potable water, and rustic toilets locatd throughout the area.

The campground has two loops of campsites, each with a vaulted pit toilet.

There is a hand pump for non-potable water.

There is no attendant on duty.

Notifications and Alerts

This facility is closed until further notice due to impacts from Hurricane Helene.

Need to Know

CFR Title 36, Rules & Regulations Governing Public Use of Corps of Engineers Water Resource Development Projects, contains additional information & requirements; copies of Title 36 are posted on bulletin boards
Maximum occupancy per campsite is ONE (1) wheeled unit & all tents are limited to impact pad with a maximum of FOUR (4) passenger vehicles and TEN (10) people.
All vehicles, RVs, & trailers must be parked on your campsite or driveway, not on grass or in vegetation. Tents also must be set up on the campsite, not on grass or in vegetation. Off road driving and/or parking off road is prohibited.
All pets must be penned or on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Owners must clean up after their pets.
Discharging firearms or fireworks in the campground is prohibited.
Alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs are prohibited at all J. Strom Thurmond Lake & Dam areas.
Fires are only allowed within designated grills or fire rings. Only dead wood may be gathered for firewood. Fires are to be attended at all times and must be contained within the designated grill or fire ring. Never leave a fire unattended! Extinguish your fire completely prior to departing your campsite.
Reservations can be made by calling 1-877-444-6777 (TDD 877-833-6777), or visiting www.recreation.gov. Reservations can be made up to 240 days in advance of desired date. DO NOT CALL the campground to make, confirm or cancel a reservation(s).
Check-In is at 3:00 PM & Check Out is at 2:00 PM.
Pack In/Pack Out. Dumpsters are not provided.

Natural Features

Hot, humid summers and mild, pleasant winters characterize this heavily wooded area on the shore of Thurmond Lake. A mixed pine and hardwood forest covers the site, providing summer shade and fall color.

Wildlife is abundant around the lake. Visitors regularly see southern bald eagles, migratory waterfowl, wild turkeys and whitetail deer.

Nearby Attractions

The campground is just outside of Lincolnton, GA.

Cherokee Recreation Area is nearby.

Nearby golf course.

Recreation

The area has 12.5 miles of equestrian trails that cross through the adjacent wilderness recration area.

There is a boat launching ramp on site.

Thurmond Lake provides some of the best fishing, hunting, and water sports in the southeastern United States. Anglers fish for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish and striped bass. The large lake offers endless boating, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing and swimming opportunities.

Contact Information

Mailing Address

J. Strom Thurmond Project Office 510 Clarks HIll HWY Clarks Hill SC 29821

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Driving Directions

From the HWY 47 Little River bridge in Lincoln Co, GA, go north 1.8 miles and turn right on Ashmore-Barden Rd. Go 3 miles to the stop sign and turn right on Double Branches Rd. Go 3 miles until the pavement ends. COntinue straight on the dirt road .5 miles to the fork in the road. Take a right at the campground sign.

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery

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