Overview Twin Lakes Recreation Area is a 152-acre site consisting of a dense overstory of pines and mixed hardwoods. Day Use facilities presently include a new gatehouse/entrance installed in 2017, 1 volunteer host campsite, 27 picnic sites, 2 standard picnic shelters with water and electric service, 1 two lane boat ra…
Overview Twin Lakes Recreation Area is a 152-acre site consisting of a dense overstory of pines and mixed hardwoods. Day Use facilities presently include a new gatehouse/entrance installed in 2017, 1 volunteer host campsite, 27 picnic sites, 2 standard picnic shelters with water and electric service, 1 two lane boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, 1 playground, 2 designated swim areas/beaches, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. This area experiences moderate to high levels of intense public use during the peak recreation season, especially the ramp area that is heavily used during Spring and Summer and is a popular launch point for numerous fishing tournaments. Recreation Boating and water sports top the list of popular activities. A boat ramp is provided for easy lake access. A large sandy swimming beach with panoramic views of the lake, offers a scenic and spacious area for visitors to cool off in the South Carolina summer. Facilities Day Use facilities presently include a new gatehouse/entrance installed in 2017, 1 volunteer host campsite, 27 picnic sites, 2 standard picnic shelters with water and electric service, 1 two lane boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, 1 playground, 2 designated swim areas/beaches, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout. Natural Features Hartwell Lake is a man-made lake bordering Georgia and South Carolina on the Savannah, Tugaloo and Seneca Rivers. The dam and lake area boasts 8 campgrounds and 11 day-use facilities that are operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The Hartwell Project was originally authorized for hydro-power, flood control, and navigation. Later, recreation, water quality, water supply and fish and wildlife management were added. Surrounding vegetation allows for plenty of shade, and the 962 miles of shoreline provide numerous swimming beaches, picnic areas and boat ramps. Nearby Attractions Twin Lakes is located just 5 miles from Clemson, South Carolina
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TWIN LAKES DAY USE AREA
How to Get There
From Interstate 85, take exit 14 to Highway 187 north. Immediately after passing Clemson Research Center, turn left on Fants Grove Road and follow directional signs to the park. 189 SHELTER DRIVE, Pendleton, SC 29670
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
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Dry bags for electronics
Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to TWIN LAKES DAY USE AREA
Heading to TWIN LAKES DAY USE AREA? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for TWIN LAKES DAY USE AREA?
No central reservation system listed for TWIN LAKES DAY USE AREA. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234571) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How many campsites are at TWIN LAKES DAY USE AREA?
TWIN LAKES DAY USE AREA has 2 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.
How do I get to TWIN LAKES DAY USE AREA?
From Interstate 85, take exit 14 to Highway 187 north. Immediately after passing Clemson Research Center, turn left on Fants Grove Road and follow directional signs to the park. 189 SHELTER DRIVE, Pendleton, SC 29670
How do I contact TWIN LAKES DAY USE AREA?
You can reach the park at phone: 888-893-0678 HARTWELL PROJECT OFFICE.
