HAMILTON BRANCH STATE PARK
Hamilton Branch is located in the western Piedmont of South Carolina on Strom Thurmond Lake, a popular fishing, boating and water recreation destination.
The park covers an entire 731-acre peninsula that provides ample shoreline for fishing. It's also the reason why most of the park's campsites are lakefront and spacious.
The park's rolling terrain supports a variety of wildlife and provides an excellent setting in which to see the natural beauty of the Savannah Valley region.
South Carolina offers a variety of Park Passports. You can read more about the South Carolina Park Passports and order online by visiting the
SOUTH CAROLINA PARK PASSPORTS web page.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bike Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
1. Hamilton Branch State Park offers a designated swimming area in the 70, 000-acre Lake Thurmond.
2. Swimming is allowed during daylight hours only for safety reasons.
3. No lifeguards are on duty; swim at your own risk and supervise children closely.
4. The park does not provide any equipment rentals like floats or life jackets so bring your own gear if needed.
5. Pets are prohibited from entering the water to ensure cleanliness and safety of swimmers.
6. The lake's clear waters make it an ideal spot for cooling off during hot summer days.
Enjoy fishing in two large reservoirs, home to largemouth bass and striped bass. Also find crappie, bream and catfish here. Cast a line from the park's 1-mile shoreline or launch your boat for deeper water angling. Fishing tournaments are also hosted throughout the year.
Hamilton Branch State Park is located near Augusta, Evans and North Augusta
Three picnic shelters are available for family or other group gatherings. Each shelter may be reserved for $30-38/day.
If shelters are not reserved, guests may use shelters on a first-come, first-served basis at no charge.
To make a picnic shelter reservation, call toll-free 1-866-345-PARK.
On February 23 you?ll also be able to make reservations through this website.
Biking enthusiasts will find a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels. However, caution is advised due to varying terrain and potential wildlife encounters.
The park's multi-use trail system offers both paved paths and off-road tracks. Be mindful that some areas may be challenging for beginners or less experienced cyclists.
Mountain bikers can enjoy the thrill of rugged routes through dense forests but should proceed with care as these are shared with hikers too.
Cyclists must adhere strictly to designated biking zones; straying from them could lead into potentially hazardous regions like steep cliffs or water bodies.
Remember, helmets are mandatory while cycling within this recreational area - safety first!
Lastly, always respect nature by not littering along your ride - let's keep our environment clean!
The park offers a variety of birding opportunities with diverse species. Birdwatchers can spot waterfowl, songbirds and raptors. The lake attracts numerous migratory birds throughout the year. There are also several trails ideal for quiet observation and photography.
General Directions: Twelve miles south of McCormick on US 221.
Driving Directions: From Columbia: take Hwy. 1 S. to Batesburg-Leesville, then take Hwy. 23 towards Johnston, Edgefield and Modoc. Hwy. 23 ends at Hwy 221 and Hwy 28. Go N. on Hwy 221 and look for park signs.