Baker Creek State Park in South Carolina, USA - map and visitor information

Research checked: 2026-10-23. Check linked official notices before travel.

Baker Creek State Park near McCormick, South Carolina, offers camping and lake recreation on Strom Thurmond Lake. The campground has reopened, but all trails remain closed after logging work and Hurricane Helene damage. Plan a lakeside visit rather than a hiking or mountain-biking trip.

Camping beside Lake Thurmond

• The lakeside campground has new family-style comfort stations and upgraded electrical service.
• Two boat ramps provide access for private boats.
• Fishing and lake views offer alternatives while the trail system is closed.

Plan for the trail closure

Fees, hours, and seasonal access

Read the current Baker Creek advisory before departure. Keep the trail closure in mind when choosing activities.

Closed trails and lake swimming

Stay out of the closed trail system. The park permits swimming in Lake Thurmond, but provides no lifeguards. Choose a visit that matches your water skills and supervise children around the shore.

Pets and lakeside wildlife

Keep pets restrained or on a leash no longer than six feet. Do not allow them to harass wildlife. Use the designated lake access points and respect closure signs during the continuing work.

Campsites and short-notice arrivals

Camping reservations have a two-night minimum. A booking made less than one day before check-in must be arranged directly with the park. Use the official camping page to reach the reservation service, compare site utilities, and check the final price.

Getting to the McCormick park

The address is 863 Baker Creek Road, McCormick, South Carolina 29835. From McCormick, follow US 378 west for about three miles, turn right at the park sign, continue about one mile, then turn left into the entrance. Use the official driving directions when planning your arrival.

Nearby parks on Lake Thurmond

Hickory Knob State Resort Park near McCormick and Hamilton Branch State Park near Plum Branch are nearby road-accessible choices. Check their own current restrictions: Hickory Knob's boat ramps are closed, and Hamilton Branch has continuing trail and facility cleanup closures.

Fishing and private-boat access

Fish for bass, crappie, catfish, bream, or striper in Strom Thurmond Lake. The park requires a valid South Carolina fishing license. Two ramps serve private boats; check launch conditions before towing a boat to the park.

Picnicking is another option. The park activity information describes two first-come picnic shelters and a playground. Leave hiking and trail biking for a future trip after the park announces reopening.

The reopened campground

The campground has 34 sites along the lake, with hot showers, a dump station, and a mix of utility arrangements. Choose the specific campsite's services rather than assuming every site has sewer or 50-amp electricity. The park lists no Wi-Fi, so save essential directions and booking details before arrival.

About Baker Creek

Land leased for public recreation

South Carolina acquired the park property through a lease from the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1967. Baker Creek opened to the public in 1968. It remains part of the state park system around Strom Thurmond Lake.

Birds around the creek and lake

The park records osprey, egrets, kingfishers, great blue herons, and several kinds of ducks around its waters. Watch from an open visitor area or from the water without approaching or disturbing birds.

Contact Baker Creek State Park

Call 864-443-2457 for camping, lake access, or reopening questions. South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism manages the park.