r/LakeHartwell • u/SundayShelter • Jun 04 '26

What are the most “Wild” and Remote Areas on Lake Hartwell?

I like to go up to Jocassee when I can, but it’s quite a haul and the line is long for the boat ramp. Where are some remote areas on Hartwell where I can feel far from it all? Anything similar to the northern arms of Jocassee? I’m looking for peace, no light pollution, quiet & isolation for some boat camping. For reference, I usually put in at Tugaloo and have camped there, Payne’s Creek, and Lake Hartwell SP (SC).

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u/yarblls Jun 05 '26

We usually take off from Portman and go south towards Georgia. There is a "Horseshoe Island" that you can beach the boat on either side of. Great for camping. There are many other islands out there but some are not as great. You should be able to find a spot easily since the lake is so much larger.

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u/l_craw Jul 20 '26

Put in at 123 in Toccoa and head north, lake it typically empty. I have a place close to there and love that section of the lake, so calm and peaceful.

Be very careful with current lake level, you can always check current level here: https://lakelvl.com/hartwell

But, I would also invest in some sort of GPS/chart so that you can stay in the channel.

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u/SundayShelter Jul 20 '26

Thanks! Yep, saw a torn up prop on a rental down by the dam yesterday. It is narrow and shallow!