Hamilton Branch State Park is a large park located near the Georgia/South Carolina state line. It has beautiful views of the J. Strom Thurmond Lake and so much to see and do. Check out one mom’s personal review of the state park below!
Things to do:
There’s so much to see and do at Hamilton Branch. Let’s break it down and get a closer look!
Camping
Our family took a weekend camping trip to Hamilton Branch a few weeks ago. It was our first time to this state park. To say that we had a FABULOUS time would be a gross understatement! My boys still haven’t stopped talking about that particular camping trip. Many of the campsites are very shaded. So while we were camping in July, the shade provided great relief from the heat.
Because the state park is right on J. Strom Thurmond Lake, lots of campsites also have a wonderful view of the lake and even swimming access directly from your campsite. We even had our own little rocky beach area at our campsite. This was probably my kiddos favorite part of the whole trip! It was great to be able to relax, cook, visit, or do whatever we needed to do all while still having that close eye on the kids.
Fishing
We also enjoyed some light fishing from our campsite. While we are not huge fishermen, the kids enjoyed casting their rods for practice. Hamilton Branch participates in the Tackle Loaner Program. You can find rods and reels for loan in the park office. A valid SC fishing license is required.
Boating/Swimming
Whether you enjoy boating, riding jet skis, kayaking, or just tubing; the Strom Thurmond Lake is huge and available for all kinds of water fun. Swimming is allowed in the lake, but keep in mind that there is no designated swimming spot and no life guards. So be careful and swim at your own risk.
Biking/Hiking
There are lots of places to ride a bike around. You can rent bikes at the park office for $10/day Monday – Thursday. It’s $15 for Friday – Sunday. If you are planning to be there for the weekend, you can get a better deal and rent it for the weekend for just $25. There’s natural hiking trails that are fun too. Don’t forget the bug spray!
Playground
Let the little ones run off some energy at the playground while you rest in the shade and enjoy a view of the lake. Keep in mind that the nearest facilities are not within walking distance for littles.
There’s so much more that they have to offer! You’ll have to make a trip there to see it for yourself. It’s only 1 1/2 hours from Columbia, so if you don’t have time to spend a whole weekend, it would still make the perfect day trip!
Wi-Fi is available near the park office. They also have EV charging stations. Be sure to check out the park store and the fun games and activities that they have just outside the park office too! Pets are allowed as long as they are restrained at all times.
Location, Hours, and Admission
111 Campground Road
Plum Branch, SC 29845
864-333-2223
Hamilton Branch State Park
Park Hours: 6 am – sunset (daily)
Office Hours: 9 am – 5 pm
$3 – adults
$1.50 – SC seniors
$1 – children ages 6 – 15
Free – children ages 5 and under
If you’ve never visited Hamilton Branch State Park, do yourself a favor and GO! You won’t regret the memories you’ll make!
Looking for more great state parks? Check out our guide to ALL SC state parks here!
