Poplar Springs
Hartwell Lake
Poplar Springs Recreation Area is a 24 acre site with moderate slopes with relatively dense stands of pines and mixed hardwoods. The site presently offers day use and boat launching facilities, but is primarily used for boat launching and is one of the more popular launch sites in this area of Hartwell Lake. Facilities include 1 volunteer host campsite, 20 picnic sites, 1 standard picnic shelter with water and electric service, 1 two lane boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout.
Facilities include 1 volunteer host campsite, 20 picnic sites, 1 standard picnic shelter with water and electric service, 1 two lane boat ramp, 1 courtesy dock, 2 comfort stations, and associated paved roads and parking areas throughout.
Notifications and Alerts
Recreational Water Watch for Lake Hartwell
May 8, 2025 Update: Recreational Water Watch for Lake Hartwell Remains in Effect.
On May 6, teams from the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) Aquatic Science Division collected new water samples from 16 locations around Lake Hartwell and observed the harmful algal bloom (HAB) in several locations.
Based on the latest round of lake observations and water sampling, SCDES recommends (1) avoiding direct contact with lake water in areas where the HAB is observed and (2) keeping pets and animals from swimming in or drinking lake water where the HAB is observed
Visit the SCDES Algal Bloom Monitoring Map for the most up-to-date information.
Need to Know
- Day-use only facility. Camping is not allowed.
- There is a $5 per vehicle fee for boat launching
- Shelter is reservable from 1 May - 4 September. Shelter reservations can be made 365 days in advance.
- Pets are allowed but must be kept on leash (6 ft or less) or otherwise physically restrained.
- Boat Ramp is open year round. Day use area open from 1 May - 9 September.
Natural Features
Hartwell Lake is a man-made lake bordering Georgia and South Carolina on the Savannah, Tugaloo and Seneca Rivers. The dam and lake area boasts 8 campgrounds and 11 day-use facilities that are operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
The Hartwell Project was originally authorized for hydro-power, flood control, and navigation. Later, recreation, water quality, water supply and fish and wildlife management were added.
Surrounding vegetation allows for plenty of shade, and the 962 miles of shoreline provide numerous swimming beaches, picnic areas and boat ramps.
Nearby Attractions
Nearby Tugaloo State Park offers swimming, boating and hiking, including the Crow Tree and Muscadine trails, which showcase beautiful blooms on oak, walnut, mulberry and cherry trees during the spring and summer months.
Recreation
Boating and water sports top the list of popular activities. A boat ramp is available year-round for visitors' convenience.
Changes & Cancellations
A $10 service fee will apply if you change or cancel a reservation more than 14 days in advance of arrival date. If you cancel a reservation within 14 days of your scheduled arrival date, you will forfeit the reservation fee.
Contact Information
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5625 ANDERSON HWY HARTWELL GA 30643
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 888-893-0678 HARTWELL PROJECT OFFICE
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From GA 77/State Route 366, take the first right onto Knox Bridge Crossing Road/GA 59. After two miles make a slight right onto Powers Road. Turn right onto GA 398 North, follow for 3.5 miles, then follow the brown directional signs to the site. 2195 POPLAR SRPINGS RD Lavonia, GA 30643
Available Campsites
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