Petersburg

Star4.42
166 reviews
3998 Petersburg Road
Petersburg
$18.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range between $18 and $32 for standard campsites, depending on the season and electrical hookup availability. Group shelter reservations are...
Show more
Standard Site Fee$32.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$82.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
706-541-9464

About this campground

Discover your perfect lakeside retreat at Petersburg Campground, where 94 thoughtfully designed campsites nestle among towering trees along the pristine shores of J. Strom Thurmond Lake. Each site comes equipped with modern conveniences including water and 50-amp electrical hookups, creating an ideal basecamp for endless adventures. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring hidden coves by boat, taking refreshing afternoon swims, or hiking scenic forest trails, Petersburg transforms every day into an outdoor enthusiast's dream.
Petersburg Campground offers a variety of camping options, including tent and RV sites, as well as group camping areas. The campground is well-suited for both solo adventurers and families.
Historical SignificanceImmerse yourself in a region where outdoor tradition meets sporting legacy. Just a short drive from the campground lies Augusta, Georgia, internationally renowned as the home of the prestigious Masters Golf Tournament. The surrounding landscape tells its own story through the careful stewardship of the Corps of Engineers, who have transformed this area into a recreational paradise while preserving its natural heritage for generations of outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Southern seasons at Petersburg, where summer days invite you to embrace the warmth with temperatures reaching a balmy 90°F in July—perfect for lake activities and evening campfires. As the seasons transition, enjoy the gentle comfort of mild winters where temperatures dance between 42°F and 76°F, extending your camping season well beyond summer. Spring arrives with May's gentle, rain-free days, while summer months bring refreshing afternoon showers that cool the forest and fill the air with the sweet scent of pine.
ElevationThe campground's gentle topography creates an accessible outdoor experience, with sites thoughtfully positioned to take advantage of natural features and lake views throughout the property.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where dense canopies of pine and hardwood create a natural cathedral overhead, filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. This verdant sanctuary serves as nature's amphitheater, where majestic bald eagles soar overhead, colorful migratory waterfowl paint the skies during seasonal journeys, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and graceful deer emerge at twilight to graze in peaceful meadows. Every sunrise brings new wildlife encounters and photo opportunities.
Geological RegionPetersburg Campground claims its place along the spectacular shoreline of J. Strom Thurmond Lake, a sprawling 70,000-acre aquatic playground carved into the Southern landscape. This magnificent reservoir, embraced by a diverse tapestry of pine and hardwood forests, creates a unique ecosystem where land and water merge. The region's distinctive character emerges through its classic Southern climate—those languid, humid summers that invite lazy lake days and mild winters that whisper of year-round outdoor possibilities.
Advertisement

Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground is partially accessible, with paved roads and accessible flush toilets. However, reviews did not consistently comment on accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious and well-suited for a range of camping setups. Multiple reviews highlight the large size of the sites, with one camper stating, "The campsites are huge and offer great privacy."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is a notable feature of the campground. Most campsites are well-spaced and surrounded by natural vegetation, providing a secluded atmosphere. "Most of the campsites are spacious and private," noted one review.
Total Campsites94 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with better drainage to avoid muddy conditions; avoid steep-graded sites if towing a large trailer.
Best CampsitesCampsites 53 and 59 are highly rated for their beautiful lake views and spacious layouts.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
3PM
Check-out
2PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 12 campers allowed per site, with a maximum of 4 vehicles per site.
Groups
Group camping is available with designated group sites that can accommodate larger parties. Specific details such as the maximum number of people per group site are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampground includes multiple loops (A, B, and C); sites are spaced for privacy and cover a mix of wooded and lakeside areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; peak season starts March 28 and ends September 7.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but availability may be limited during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date, with a $10 cancellation fee applied. Late cancellations may incur forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee.

Accomodation available

GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities

Activities you can enjoy

Petersburg Campground offers a mix of water-based and land-based recreational activities suitable for all ages. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Bartram Trail is a highlight for hikers and mountain bikers, and the campground's two swimming beaches offer relaxation and water fun.
Hiking
A major attraction is the nearby Bartram Trail, a designated National Recreation Trail. The 27-mile trail is popular for both hiking and mountain biking, with shorter sections accessible from intersecting trailheads. Additionally, the 1.8-mile Lake Springs Loop is a nearby option for shorter hikes. User reviews frequently praise the hiking opportunities, with one camper stating, "Access to Bartram Trail for hiking or mountain biking is a real asset."
Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at J. Strom Thurmond Lake, with anglers targeting largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish, and striped bass. However, some users reported limited success, with one reviewer stating, "The lake is nice but we, and nobody around us, got even a nibble from a fish."
Swimming
The campground offers two swimming beaches, both of which are roped off for safety. These areas are popular with families, and reviews highlight their appeal, especially for children.
Biking
The Bartram Trail, accessible near the campground entrance, is a favorite among mountain bikers. Additionally, the campground's paved roads are suitable for casual biking. One user highlighted, "Good walking and mountain bike trails," as a positive aspect of the campground.
Boating
Thurmond Lake provides endless opportunities for boating, including kayaking, water skiing, jet skiing, and canoeing. A boat ramp and courtesy dock are available at the campground.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant around the lake, with common sightings of bald eagles, migratory waterfowl, wild turkeys, and deer. "The scenery here at the park was great – right on the lake with terrific sunsets," one camper noted.
Beach activities
The two swimming beaches are the primary areas for beach activities. They are well-maintained, family-friendly, and offer opportunities for sunbathing and leisurely swimming.
Winter Activities
Winters at the campground are mild, making it suitable for off-season visits, though no specific winter recreation activities are highlighted.
Water Sports
Water-based activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular due to the lake's extensive shoreline and calm waters.
Advertisement

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings only; visitors are encouraged to use locally sourced firewood.
  • Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM

Hazards

General hazardsPresence of alligators in the fishing pond; steep entry and exit grades at certain campsites; inclement weather may cause muddy and rutted site conditions.

Weather forecast

69
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 78%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 1.4 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Mainly clear

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Emergency services are located in Augusta, approximately 25 miles away.

Good to know

Peak season datesMarch 28 to September 7
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are conveniently located within the campground for regular waste disposal. Campers are reminded to keep their sites clean, with signs encouraging proper waste management to avoid attracting wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the shores of J. Strom Thurmond Lake; two swimming beaches and a fishing dock available.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include muddy campsites after rain, lack of privacy curtains in showers, occasional ant infestations, and outdated bathroom facilities.
HostHosts generally receive positive reviews for being helpful and courteous; some complaints about specific hosts being unfriendly.

Campground Map

3998 Petersburg Road
Driving directionsFrom I-20, take Exit 183 (Appling). Go north on HWY 221 approximately 6 miles. At the 4-way stop, go straight (HWY 221) another 2 miles. Campground road is on the left. Follow signs.
The road access is paved and suitable for most vehicles, but reviews indicate that certain turns and site entrances can be narrow or steep. Some users have reported issues with washed-out areas and gaps between pavement and dirt.
Nearby places
Appling: 4 miles
Augusta: 25 miles
Nearby supplies
Nearby towns including Evans and Augusta have grocery stores, restaurants, and supply shops
Walmart is located about 13 miles from the campground.

Camper Reviews

4.4
166 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Petersburg is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Petersburg Campground receives high praise for its scenic location, spacious campsites, and comprehensive amenities. However, some issues such as inconsistent water pressure, unheated restroom facilities, and campsite maintenance were noted in user reviews.
Review Summaries
Based on 166 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently highlighted the campground's large, private sites and beautiful lakeside views. The free laundry facility and well-maintained trails were also appreciated. One user commented, "The...
Show more
Based on 166 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common complaints included issues with water pressure, road conditions, and outdated restroom facilities. Several users reported maintenance concerns, such as rutted entrances to campsites...
Show more
Based on 166 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing ant spray, as some sites are prone to infestations. Firewood should be acquired before arrival, and campers with larger RVs should select sites carefully due to steep...
Show more
Based on 166 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are the most highly rated seasons, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer reviews noted hot conditions, and winter feedback highlighted unheated facilities as a downside.
Based on 166 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Beautiful park but I picked the wrong site (#46). Didn't realize it was a buddy site until after we had traversed the driveway down to the site." "The front guard gate was very helpful and polite...
Show more
Based on 166 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites like 46 and 40 receive both praise and criticism for their location and layout. Site 40 was described as "windy – lake effect windy!" while site 46 was noted as a buddy site that may not suit...
Show more
Based on 166 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility feedback was limited; however, paved roads and accessible restrooms suggest partial accommodation for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 166 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Several reviews complained about pets being an issue near swimming beaches where they are prohibited.
Based on 166 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in Georgia

Campgrounds
J. Strom Thurmond Lake
Petersburg