Tugaloo State Park
00 review1763 TUGALOO STATE PARK ROAD, LAVONIA, Georgia, 30553, United States
Tugaloo State Park
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
About this campground
Escape to Tugaloo State Park, where a forested peninsula juts into the sparkling waters of Lake Hartwell, creating an outdoor paradise for nature enthusiasts. This scenic retreat beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of woodland tranquility and water recreation. Whether you're casting a line from the impressive six-lane mega ramp during a fishing tournament, paddling through quiet coves, or hiking shaded trails that wind through the forest, Tugaloo offers endless ways to connect with nature. The park's unique peninsula setting means you're never far from the water's edge, where swimming beaches and boat launches provide instant access to one of the Southeast's premier recreational lakes.
Tugaloo State Park offers a mix of camping accommodations, including developed and primitive sites, as well as cottages. Tent campers have options for both developed and primitive settings.
Historical SignificanceThe park's name carries the whispers of history, derived from the Cherokee word 'Tugaloo' that once described the mighty river flowing through this land. Before Hartwell Dam transformed the landscape into today's vast lake, indigenous peoples navigated these waters and called this region home, leaving behind a legacy preserved in the very name that greets visitors today.
Natural Features and SceneryTugaloo's peninsula setting creates a natural amphitheater of beauty, where hardwood forests meet expansive lake views at every turn. Majestic oaks spread their canopies overhead, while native walnuts, mulberries, and cherry trees paint the landscape with seasonal colors. The surrounding waters of Lake Hartwell stretch across 55,590 acres, creating endless vistas of blue that shift from mirror-calm mornings to sunset-painted evenings. This unique geography means campers can wake to sunrise reflections on one side of the peninsula and watch the sun set over different waters on the other.
Geological RegionNestled within the Piedmont region's rolling topography, Tugaloo State Park showcases the ecological richness of a mature hardwood forest ecosystem. The wooded peninsula, embraced by the vast 55,590-acre Lake Hartwell, supports a diverse canopy of native oak, walnut, mulberry, and cherry trees. This transitional zone where upland forest meets reservoir creates unique habitats and microclimates that support abundant wildlife and offer visitors a chance to experience the best of both woodland and aquatic environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo detailed information is provided about accessibility options for disabled campers.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Campers can enjoy a variety of recreational activities at Tugaloo State Park, including hiking, freshwater fishing, swimming, and boating. The park is a hotspot for water-based activities during the summer, and its trails offer scenic routes through diverse hardwood forests.
Hiking
The Sassafras and Muscadine trails are available for hikers. These trails wind through oak, walnut, mulberry, and cherry trees, offering a serene experience amidst nature.Fishing
Fishing is available year-round at Lake Hartwell, which is accessible from the park. The lake is known for its large-mouth bass population, and the park features a six-lane mega ramp for fishing tournaments.Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity during the summer season, though no specific details about designated areas or safety measures are provided.Boating
The park is a destination for boating enthusiasts, with facilities such as boat launches and ramps. The lake facilitates water skiing and sailing as well.Water Sports
Water-based activities such as kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and water skiing are readily available during summer months.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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Temperature Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is surrounded by Lake Hartwell, offering direct access to water-based activities.
Common complaintsUser review mentions the park being 'covered in trash,' which could be a recurring issue.
Campground Map
1763 TUGALOO STATE PARK ROAD, LAVONIA, Georgia, 30553, United States
Driving directionsTake I-85 exit 173 travel North on GA Hwy 17. Turn right on Pleasant Hill Rd. Turn right on Gerrard Rd, go approx. 2 miles. Turn left on GA Hwy 328 for 3.3 miles. Turn right on Tugaloo Park Road and travel one mile to end of road.
The park is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures or navigation challenges are not mentioned.Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Tugaloo State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's beautiful lakeside location as a major positive. However, some issues like cleanliness, particularly with trash, have been raised.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The park's scenic location on Lake Hartwell, the availability of diverse activities, and facilities like cottages with private boat docks are highly appreciated.
Common Concerns
One user noted, 'Despite always being covered in trash, a very fun camping spot,' indicating recurring concerns about cleanliness.
Camper Quotes
One user mentioned, 'Despite always being covered in trash, a very fun camping spot.'
Last updated August 10, 2025