Heading to the lake with family and friends is a great way to spend the weekend. If you’re traveling to East Georgia, Clarks Hill Lake needs to be on your to-do list. Visit Columbia County, GA, is home to local experts who provide recommendations and guidance for visitors to the area. Here, we explore Clarks Hill camping, fishing, and other activities, along with what to consider when planning your trip.


Key Takeaways

  • Clarks Hill Lake offers 71,000 acres of water to explore and is surrounded by various trails for hiking and biking.
  • Visitors to the lake can enjoy many different activities, rent boats, or stay overnight at campsites, cabins, Airbnbs, and even glamping sites.
  • The team at Visit Columbia County, GA, can help you plan the perfect trip to the lake or any of East Georgia’s other must-see spots.

What to Know About Clarks Hill Lake at a Glance

Clarks Hill Lake (also known as J. Strom Thurmond Lake to our South Carolina neighbors) is a 71,000-acre freshwater lake located in the east-central area of Georgia. The lake offers calm and pristine waters and is surrounded by lush greenery. The lake features 1,200 miles of shoreline with plenty of inlets to explore, so you’ll be able to find a peaceful and relaxing spot to enjoy. The lake is also surrounded by hiking trails of varying difficulty, providing a nice challenge for beginners and seasoned hikers alike. Throughout your time there, you’re sure to encounter the area's flora and fauna, making trips memorable, whether you’re on land or on the water.


What Can You Expect from Clarks Hill Camping and Other Activities?

Trips out into nature allow you to enjoy fresh air, exciting encounters with wildlife, and some much-needed time away from the rest of the world. At Clarks Hill Lake, you can get even more out of your time there by exploring the following activities:

Fishing

A lake the size of Clarks Hill Lake is sure to have a wide variety of species that anglers will love reeling in. Some of the common fish found in the lake include largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. Because of the abundance of fish in its waters, the lake is home to various bass fishing tournaments.

Boating, Canoeing, and Kayaking

If you want to explore more of the lake, take to the water on a boat. The lake offers boat rentals for those who have the appropriate Georgia boater education, making it easy to discover what makes the lake so special. Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding at Clarks Hill Lake are other fantastic ways to experience all that the lake has to offer while getting some exercise.

Exploring Trails

The area’s many trails allow visitors a chance to explore the scenery, providing a fun challenge for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, or run through the wilderness surrounding the lake, you’ll find a wide selection of options. The Bartram Trail that begins at the lake’s West Dam Recreational Area is part of the Bombasin Land Trail, one of the most popular outdoor attractions in the area.

Camping

With so much to see in and around the lake, it’s no surprise that visitors often need more than a day to get everything in. Fortunately, the lake offers several campgrounds and RV parks to help you get settled. Wildwood Park is a popular option, with both regular campsites (complete with water, 50-amp service, a picnic table, grill, and a fire ring) and primitive options, which have no electric, water, or showers. Timberline Glamping Company provides a more luxurious experience at Wildwood Park, with canvas tents that have beds, charging stations, coffee makers, and more. If you’re looking to get more amenities, you can stay at one of the nearby hotels or lodges instead.


Helpful Tips to Plan Your Trip

To have a successful trip, you need to do your research. Some things to consider before your trip to Clarks Hill Lake include:

  • Activities: Consider whether you prefer hiking, boating, or fishing to make sure you pack the right supplies. You can also check out rentals to determine if you’ll need a license or other requirements.
  • Timing: Different seasons offer different experiences, as do different times of day. Check to see whether your desired activity is permitted when you plan to go.
  • Weather: Look at the weather forecast before you go to ensure you dress accordingly and can enjoy the outdoors safely.

Considering these aspects can help ensure you have an enjoyable time at Clarks Hill Lake while staying prepared.


Learn More About Clarks Hill Lake with Visit Columbia County, GA

There’s a reason so many people head to Clarks Hill Lake. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking for a peaceful fishing trip, a family hoping to view animals in their natural habitat, or a couple considering a Clarks Hill camping trip for a night under the stars, this acclaimed lake in East Georgia is an easy choice.

At Visit Columbia County, GA, we know that planning a trip is exciting, and we want to help in any way we can. We’ll help you find places to stay and things to do near Appling, Evans, Grovetown, Harlem, Martinez, and Fort Eisenhower to make your trip unforgettable. Contact us today if you have any questions, or explore our visitor guide for more insight.