By:
Submission
Located at Hartwell Lake, one of the southeasts largest and most popular public recreation areas, Big Oaks is a summer day-use area that offers and ideal setting for a party, barbecue or simply a day of water activities with the family.
Big Oaks boasts sweeping views of the 56,000-acre Hartwell Lake and true to its name, features large shady oaks throughout the campground.
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 nine campgrounds and 15 day-use facilities that are operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
The Hartwell Project was originally authorized for hydropower, 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.
Boating and water sports top the list of popular activities. A two-lane boat ramp is provided for easy lake access.
With multiple trails snaking throughout the shoreline area, hiking and biking are also popular pastimes.
Big Oaks offers multiple picnic areas, complete with shelters, flush toilets and playgrounds. Parking is available on-site.
A hiking and biking trail is accessible nearby at Paynes Creek Campground.
From Hartwell, GA, take Highway 29 south for about 5 miles. The campground is located adjacent to the dam project office.
First-time visitor and the weather was not too hot nor too cold so taking a walk to the dam was perfect on this day. Went with a group of us. We all really in love. The easy to walk on path. At the end of the walking pass you make it to the dam and you have such a beautiful view makes walking that path worth every step. It's a very beautiful outdoor area and would recommend people to go take a walk for themselves and enjoy the outdoors and The View.
This recreation area at Hartwell dam is very nice. The views are fantastic. There is a boat ramp, restrooms, and picnic areas. There is also fishing available. Right next door is the Hartwell dam visitors center.
I recommend bringing the whole family here to spend some relaxing time together. Have a picnic and explore the other nearby spots to view the lake and the dam.
Beautiful and quiet place. Has picnic tables, small playground with 2 swings, bathrooms, and a boat dock with good-sized parking. Also, it has a big pavilion that you can rent and entrance to the park is free.
It was beautiful area, nice view of the lake and you can walk towards the dam. It’s around 1.7 miles one way. The recreational area has playground for the kids and lots of picnic tables to enjoy the lake view with food. The toilets are clean but no hand soaps. Enough parking space to not worry for parking. Good food options around 10 minutes away. Kids enjoyed the play area and adults enjoyed the lake view.
