Crescent
4.7935 reviews150 Campers Way, Starr, SC 29684
Crescent
$240.00 - $528.00 / 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$240.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group standard electric sites range from $240 to $528 per night depending on season and site type. Reservation fees apply and vary by method of booking ($8 online, $9 contact center, $3 in-person). Additional fees for late cancellations or changes.
About this campground
Nestled on a secluded 41-acre peninsula where gentle slopes meet the sparkling waters of Hartwell Lake, Crescent Group Campground offers the perfect retreat for families, friends, and organizations seeking a memorable outdoor gathering. This thoughtfully designed campground features two distinct loops - the intimate Loop A with 10 sites and the expansive Loop B with 22 sites - all equipped with full water and electric hookups to ensure comfort meets adventure. Days here unfold with the rhythm of lake life: morning mists rising off the water give way to afternoons of fishing from the shoreline, splashing in designated swim areas, and evenings gathered around campfires as boats drift lazily across the horizon. While you'll need to launch your boat elsewhere, the campground compensates with modern comfort stations featuring hot showers, covered picnic shelters for group meals, and a playground where children's laughter mingles with the calls of waterfowl.
Crescent is a group campground with accommodations for RVs and tents. It is specifically designed for large gatherings, with Loop A supporting up to 100 people and Loop B supporting up to 220 people.
Historical SignificanceThe waters that lap at Crescent's shores tell a story of transformation and purpose. What began as an ambitious engineering project for hydroelectric power, flood control, and navigation has evolved into one of the Southeast's most beloved recreational treasures. The proximity to Clemson University infuses the area with youthful energy and Tiger pride, as generations of students and alumni have made memories on these waters. Today, Hartwell Lake stands as a testament to how infrastructure can harmoniously blend with recreation and wildlife management, creating a destination where human enjoyment and natural preservation coexist in perfect balance.
Weather and SeasonsFrom April through October, Crescent Group Campground basks in its glory days, with crystalline skies stretching endlessly above the lake and warm breezes carrying the scent of pine across the peninsula. These peak months bring ideal conditions for swimming, fishing, and stargazing around the campfire. As autumn transitions to winter, the campground takes on a quieter charm - temperatures drop to sweater-weather comfort, occasional rain showers create a peaceful soundtrack, and the crowds thin out, leaving more intimate experiences for those who appreciate the lake's serene off-season personality.
ElevationThe campground's peninsula setting creates a naturally intimate landscape where gentle slopes roll down to meet the water's edge at nearly every turn. This minimal elevation change makes the entire campground easily accessible while still providing enough topographical interest to create private nooks and scenic vantage points. Whether you're setting up camp or taking an evening stroll, the terrain invites exploration without demanding strenuous climbs, making it ideal for campers of all ages and abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to a panorama where morning light dances across Hartwell Lake's vast expanse, framed by stands of towering pines and diverse hardwoods that provide both shade and sanctuary. This man-made marvel seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings, creating hidden coves perfect for fishing and scenic vistas that change with each passing hour. The scattered tree cover throughout the campground offers a park-like setting where sunlight filters through branches, creating dappled shadows on your campsite. Wildlife thrives here - watch for deer at dusk, listen for the splash of jumping bass, and count the variety of birds that call this lakeside forest home.
Geological RegionWhere the historic rivers of the Savannah, Tugaloo, and Seneca once carved their separate paths through the piedmont, Hartwell Lake now creates a unified aquatic playground spanning the Georgia-South Carolina border. This remarkable transformation showcases how human engineering can enhance natural geography, with the original river valleys now forming the lake's numerous fingers and coves. The surrounding landscape of gentle slopes dressed in Southern pine and mixed hardwood forests reflects the region's characteristic piedmont topography - a transitional zone between mountains and coastal plain that creates the perfect backdrop for outdoor recreation. The marriage of engineered shoreline and natural forest creates an ecosystem where recreational opportunities and wildlife habitats flourish side by side.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation on specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities is not provided.
Sites SizeSites are spacious enough to accommodate both tent and RV setups. Loop A has 10 sites, and Loop B has 22 sites.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is designed for group use, and sites are clustered within each loop, which may limit privacy. However, it is noted as a private location exclusive to group reservations.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLoop B is ideal for larger groups due to higher capacity and access to pavilion facilities. Loop A is smaller but equally well-maintained.
Best CampsitesLoop B (Sites 1-22) is highly rated for group camping with scenic views and close access to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Loop A sites allow up to 100 people per site, Loop B sites allow up to 220 people per site.
Groups
Loop A is designed for up to 100 people and 30 vehicles, while Loop B accommodates up to 220 people and 66 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of two loops: Loop A with 10 campsites; Loop B with 22 campsites. Each loop includes paved and gravel roads and parking areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1 to October 30 annually. Closed outside of these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov online, app, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not indicated; all sites are reservable in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled a minimum of two days prior to arrival to avoid penalties. Cancellations within less than 14 days for group sites incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night’s use fee. No-show reservations result in a $20 fee and loss of the first night’s 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
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Group camping at Crescent offers a variety of recreational activities, many of which take advantage of the nearby Hartwell Lake. Available activities include fishing, swimming, boating, and general wildlife viewing. Campers can also enjoy the playground and nearby picnic areas.
Fishing
Fishing is highlighted as a popular activity at Hartwell Lake, with species such as largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish, striped bass, and hybrid bass being sought after.Swimming
The campsite offers sand beaches and designated swim areas along the shoreline for campers to enjoy.Boating
The lake accommodates various types of boating, including canoeing, sailing, and motor boating. There is no boat ramp or courtesy dock on-site, but Big Water Marina is noted as being a mile away.Wildlife viewing
The scattered tree cover and proximity to Hartwell Lake provide opportunities for observing local wildlife.Beach activities
Campers can enjoy sand beaches and swimming areas. Specific beach-related activities such as sunbathing or beachcombing are not detailed.Winter Activities
No winter-specific recreational activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing, kayaking, and other boating activities are supported by the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted within designated fire rings. Visitors cautioned not to move firewood to avoid invasive pests.
- Quiet hours enforced; specific times not detailed.
Hazards
General hazardsGranite-lined shorelines present challenges for boat landing. Wildlife encounters are possible. Visitors must secure food to avoid attracting animals.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 13.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
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
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Hartwell Lake Office at 5625 Anderson Hwy, Hartwell, GA 30643; nearest emergency services in Clemson, SC, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 30 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available within the campground. Campers are instructed to remove trash frequently and not leave litter in fire rings or campsites before check-out.
Proximity to water featuresSituated directly on Hartwell Lake with access to designated swim areas, scenic coves, and waterfront campsites. No boat ramps available.
Common complaintsSome reports mention challenging boat landing areas due to granite rocks along the shoreline. Occasional issues with power tripping in campsites, resolved promptly by hosts.
HostVolunteer hosts are frequently praised for their helpfulness and responsiveness. Hosts assist with gate combination access and maintenance.
Campground Map
150 Campers Way, Starr, SC 29684
Driving directionsFrom Hartwell, Georgia, take Hwy 29 north for approximately 8 miles (you will cross into South Carolina). Turn left onto Ginn Road. Take the first left onto Campers Way and continue straight to the campground. From Anderson SC, take Hwy 29 South from Anderson, heading south towards Hartwell, Georgia, after the intersection with Hwy 187 (4-way stop), continue south on Hwy 29 until you see sign for Crescent. It is located about 4 miles before the Ga/SC border.
Campground access is via paved roads with no indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain. All directions indicate relatively straightforward navigation.Nearby places
Clemson, SC (approximately 15 miles, 20-minute drive), Hartwell, GA (approximately 8 miles, 12-minute drive), Anderson, SC (approximately 12 miles, 15-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, gas stations, and restaurants are available in Clemson, SC (approximately 15 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.8
35 reviews
Crescent is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Crescent Group Campground is widely praised for its clean facilities, spacious sites, and private group camping experience. Recurring positive themes include the helpfulness of on-site hosts, the cleanliness of the bathrooms, and the scenic lake views. However, some reviews note the lack of a boat ramp as a drawback.
Review Summaries
Based on 35 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious campsites, well-maintained facilities, friendly hosts, scenic lake views, and a strong sense of privacy for group camping.
Based on 35 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lack of a boat ramp, limited privacy for individual sites within group loops, and the need to book far in advance due to popularity.
Based on 35 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Book your stay well in advance, especially during peak season. Inform your group about the gate combination before arrival. If boating, use the Big Water Marina one mile away for boat ramp access.
Based on 35 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often highlight swimming and boating activities, while spring and fall reviews emphasize the scenic beauty and cooler temperatures.
Based on 35 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Loved our stay at Crescent. We always have a Great time. The attendant/host are Great." - Alison Hilley
"Very nice camp ground. Clean. They have showers and flushing toilets if you're tent camping."...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Loop B is noted as ideal for large groups, with 22 spacious sites. Loop A, with 10 sites, is described as smaller but equally well-maintained. Some users noted difficulty fully utilizing certain...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 35 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. They are not allowed on playgrounds, in restrooms, or on swim beaches.
Based on 35 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025