Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area
4.1411 reviewsLick Fork Lake Recreation Area
$7.00 - $7.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$7.00
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
The campground charges $7 per campsite per night. Payment is made through a self-serve fee station. There is also a $3 day-use fee per vehicle.
About this campground
Tucked away in the rolling hills of Sumter National Forest, Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area offers an intimate escape into South Carolina's natural beauty. This hidden gem features just 10 thoughtfully placed campsites, some carved into terraced hillsides, creating private retreats among the trees. The centerpiece is a tranquil 12-acre lake perfect for paddling a canoe at dawn or casting a line as the sun sets. While the facilities carry the authentic patina of a well-loved wilderness spot, the campground's remote location and peaceful atmosphere make it a favorite among those seeking solitude. Here, the only sounds you'll hear are birdsong, rustling leaves, and the gentle lap of water against the shore.
The campground supports both tent camping and combined-use sites that can accommodate a variety of setups. Sites are first-come, first-serve and there’s no reservation system.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through November, Lick Fork Lake welcomes campers with South Carolina's signature warm embrace and reliably clear skies. These prime camping months bring mild to warm temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures, with minimal rainfall to interrupt your plans. As autumn arrives, the surrounding hardwoods burst into color while maintaining comfortable camping conditions. Even in the cooler months, the area remains accessible and dry, offering year-round opportunities for those hardy souls who enjoy crisp mornings by the campfire and the forest's winter solitude.
ElevationAt a gentle elevation of 260 feet, the campground rests in South Carolina's characteristic piedmont landscape, where the coastal plains begin their gradual rise toward the mountains. This modest elevation creates the perfect balance of accessibility and scenic beauty, with just enough topography to add interest to hiking trails without challenging casual outdoor enthusiasts.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard of the South Carolina piedmont, where towering pines mingle with mature hardwoods to create a diverse woodland tapestry. The 12-acre lake serves as a mirror to the sky, its grassy edges providing perfect spots for afternoon picnics or quiet contemplation. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the abundance of wildlife – from vibrant butterflies dancing through sunbeams to melodious songbirds filling the air with their calls. Eagle-eyed visitors might even spot the fascinating tree snails that call these woods home. Forest trails wind through the surrounding landscape, inviting exploration and offering glimpses of the area's natural treasures around every bend.
Geological RegionThe campground graces the shores of Lick Fork Lake, nestled within a classic Southern pine forest ecosystem. This piedmont region showcases the gentle, time-worn landscape that characterizes central South Carolina, where ancient geological forces have created a terrain of subtle beauty and ecological diversity.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site has an accessible fishing pier and wheelchair-friendly toilets.
Sites SizeNo specific information provided on site sizes.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy of sites is not specifically described, but reviews imply a peaceful and quiet environment.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites near the lake are recommended for those looking for scenic views and proximity to water.
Best CampsitesUser reviews suggest that there are three campsites directly along the lake and six nearby, offering scenic and peaceful settings.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days maximum
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes terraced campsites and open spaces by the lake for walk-in tent sites.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open seasonally from May 1 through November 15.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are first-come, first-served. There is no option for reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not described.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers activities such as hiking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The Lick Fork Lake Hiking Trail and Horn Creek Trail are notable trails in the area. Fishing is popular at the lake, and the wheelchair-friendly fishing pier offers accessibility. Boating is limited to non-motorized boats, and the lake is well-suited for canoes and kayaks.
Hiking
Two trails are available: the Lick Fork Lake Trail, a 2-mile loop, and the Horn Creek Trail, which extends 5.7 miles into the forest. However, some reviews highlight maintenance issues: 'Half of the Horn Creek trail was overgrown, and there were lots of tree falls that blocked the trail in spots.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities include channel catfish, largemouth bass, and bream. A wheelchair-friendly fishing pier is available.Swimming
Swimming is available at the lake, which features a grassy beach. However, reviews suggest neglect: 'What used to be a sandy beach is now grass and weeds.'Biking
The Horn Creek Trail supports biking activities, with occasional maintenance issues reported by users.Boating
Boating is restricted to non-motorized boats, including canoes. Powerboat usage is limited to electric motors.Wildlife viewing
Visitors have reported seeing a variety of wildlife, including butterflies, birds, and tree snails. Some reviews also mention the possibility of encountering deer.Beach activities
The beach is grassy, and while it supports swimming and relaxation, users have noted that it is not well-maintained.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing are supported due to the calm waters of the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention the presence of 'tweakers' in the woods and limited cell service, which can be a safety concern. Trails and facilities are described as poorly maintained, with overgrown paths and broken bridges.
Active alertsThe area is open but may have hazards due to hurricane damage.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific information about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is directly adjacent to Lick Fork Lake, a 12-acre water body suitable for fishing, canoeing, and other non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsNeglect in maintenance, including overgrown trails, broken bridges, and a lack of beach area near the lake, has been highlighted. Limited amenities, such as no potable water, running water, or electricity, are also a concern.
HostNo information about campground hosts is provided.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom the square in downtown Edgefield, travel south on Hwy 23 for 8.3 miles. Bear left onto Hwy 230 and travel for .4 miles. Turn left onto Lick Fork Lake Road (S 19-263), and travel 1.9 miles. Entrance is on right.
The road to the campground is accessible via paved roads. There are no specific mentions of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Camper Reviews
4.1
11 reviews
Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peaceful and quiet nature of the campground, which is often vacant. Key attractions include accessible outdoor activities and affordability, though maintenance issues are a common theme.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the serenity of the campground: 'Quiet and peaceful' and 'I love this place.' The affordable $7 fee is frequently appreciated. The area’s wildlife, such as butterflies and birds, adds to...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Maintenance issues such as overgrown trails, the beach’s transition to grass, and neglected facilities are frequently cited. The absence of running water, electricity, and cell service are also noted...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and be prepared for dry camping. Carry cash for the self-serve payment system.
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Campers note that the site is less crowded in the off-season, adding to its peacefulness. However, some facilities (like trails and the beach) are in better condition during the peak season due to...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'I would like to be the Campground Host one day.' 2. 'Beautiful lake and forest.' 3. 'Quiet, peaceful, and affordable.'
Based on 11 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
The lake-side sites are particularly appreciated for their proximity to water activities.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly features like the fishing pier and accessible restrooms are noted.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025