Fresh air, flowing water, scenic trails and lakeside fun from sunrise to sunset.
Looking for things to do at Clarks Hill Lake? The Thomson, Georgia, side of the lake and surrounding McDuffie County offer plenty of ways to get outdoors, from kayaking and hiking to fishing, disc golf and camping. This one-day outdoor itinerary combines several of the area's favorite outdoor experiences—with great local food along the way—and can easily be expanded into a weekend getaway.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Thomson, paddle the Little River Water Trail, explore the trails at the McDuffie Public Fishing Area, play a round of disc golf at Sweetwater Park, and finish with dinner and a lakeside evening. If you have more time, add a guided fishing trip or stay overnight near Clarks Hill Lake.
Fuel Up with Breakfast at Camellia City Cafe
Every outdoor adventure deserves a proper send-off, and Camellia City Cafe is a local favorite for a hearty breakfast and small-town Southern hospitality. Grab a satisfying meal and a cup of coffee before heading out for your day of exploring.
A good breakfast is especially important when your itinerary includes paddling, hiking and plenty of fresh air!
Morning Paddle on the Little River Water Trail
Next stop: the water.
The Little River Water Trail offers a peaceful way to explore the natural landscape surrounding Clarks Hill Lake. Bring your own kayak or canoe and paddle through scenic waterways surrounded by forests, wetlands and wildlife.
The water trail follows the Little River and connects with Clarks Hill Lake, giving paddlers an opportunity to experience one of the area's most beautiful natural resources from the water. Raysville Campground provides access to the lake and is also a convenient place to extend your adventure with an overnight stay.
Whether you're an experienced paddler or simply looking for a quiet morning outdoors, the Little River Water Trail is a great way to experience the natural side of McDuffie County.
Good to know: Water conditions and access can vary, so check current conditions and plan your route before launching.
Hike, Fish & Explore the McDuffie Public Fishing Area
Don't let the name fool you—there's much more to discover at the McDuffie Public Fishing Area than fishing.
This 1,050-acre outdoor destination offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing and exploring several different Georgia ecosystems. Take a walk on the Blackwater Swamp Trail, Beaver Pond Trail or Longleaf Pine Trail, each offering its own scenery and natural features.
Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at the on-site archery range and test your aim in a safe outdoor setting.
Before you leave, make time for the butterfly garden just outside the McDuffie Environmental Education Center. It's a colorful, peaceful place to slow down and appreciate some of the smaller wonders of the outdoors.
Whether you're looking for a place to hike near Thomson, explore wildlife or spend a few hours fishing, the McDuffie Public Fishing Area is an easy addition to your outdoor itinerary.
Play 18 Holes of Disc Golf at Sweetwater Park
Keep the outdoor momentum going with a round of disc golf at Sweetwater Park in Thomson.
The park's 18-hole disc golf course offers a fun challenge for both beginners and experienced players. Grab your discs, enjoy the fresh air and see how your score stacks up.
Disc golf is an easy way to add a little friendly competition to your day—and you don't have to be an expert to enjoy it.
Dinner at Bob’s Cafe in Raysville
After a full day outdoors, you've earned a great meal.
Head toward the Raysville area for dinner at Bob's Cafe, a local favorite known for savory steaks and fresh seafood platters. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a fitting end to a day spent on the trails and water.
And if you're continuing on to one of the nearby campgrounds, you're already in the right part of the county for a lakeside evening.
Go Fishing on Clarks Hill Lake
Have another day to spare? Put fishing at the top of your list.
Clarks Hill Lake is a popular destination for anglers, offering opportunities to spend a full day on the water in search of bass and other freshwater species. Whether you're an experienced fisherman or simply want to try something new, a local guide can help you make the most of your time on the lake.
Reel 'N Time Fishing Charters offers guided fishing trips by advance appointment. A guided excursion is a great option for visitors who want local knowledge of the lake without having to bring their own boat or figure everything out themselves.
If you're planning a fishing trip, be sure to check current Georgia fishing regulations and licensing requirements before heading out.
Camp on Clarks Hill Lake
Why make it a day trip when you can stay awhile?
Raysville Campground and Big Hart Campground offer opportunities to camp near the shores of Clarks Hill Lake, making it easy to turn a day of outdoor recreation into a relaxing lake getaway.
Camping also puts you closer to the water for an early-morning fishing trip, another paddle on the Little River Water Trail or simply a quiet evening under the stars.
Prefer RV comfort? Pollard Camper Rentals and Cute and Catchy RV Rentals offer convenient options for enjoying a camping experience without having to own your own camper.
Your Clarks Hill Lake & McDuffie County Outdoor Day
8:00 a.m. — Breakfast at Camellia City Cafe
9:30 a.m. — Paddle the Little River Water Trail
12:30 p.m. — Take a break and grab lunch
1:30 p.m. — Hike and explore the McDuffie Public Fishing Area
3:30 p.m. — Play 18 holes of disc golf at Sweetwater Park
6:00 p.m. — Dinner at Bob's Cafe
Evening — Camp near Clarks Hill Lake at Raysville or Big Hart
Have another day? Add a guided fishing trip on Clarks Hill Lake or spend more time exploring the lake and surrounding outdoor attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Recreation in McDuffie County
What are some things to do at Clarks Hill Lake near Thomson, Georgia?
Visitors can fish, paddle, camp and enjoy other outdoor recreation around the Thomson side of Clarks Hill Lake. Nearby McDuffie County attractions also offer hiking, wildlife viewing, disc golf and other ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Where can I kayak near Thomson, Georgia?
The Little River Water Trail offers paddling opportunities through the natural areas of McDuffie County and connects with Clarks Hill Lake. Bring your own kayak or canoe and check current water and access conditions before launching.
Where can I fish near Thomson, Georgia?
Clarks Hill Lake is a popular fishing destination, while the McDuffie Public Fishing Area provides additional fishing opportunities. Visitors can also book a guided fishing trip with Reel 'N Time Fishing Charters.
Where can I camp on Clarks Hill Lake?
Raysville Campground and Big Hart Campground offer camping opportunities near Clarks Hill Lake in McDuffie County. Both provide a convenient base for enjoying fishing, paddling and other outdoor activities.
Can I make a weekend trip out of visiting Clarks Hill Lake?
Absolutely. Combine paddling, hiking, fishing and other outdoor activities with local restaurants and an overnight stay near the lake. With Thomson's restaurants and other attractions nearby, Clarks Hill Lake can be part of a full weekend getaway in McDuffie County.
Make It a Weekend
From paddling peaceful waterways to hiking through Georgia's longleaf pine and wetlands, playing a round of disc golf and relaxing beside the lake, outdoor adventure in McDuffie County doesn't have to be complicated.
Start in Thomson. Get outside. Explore Clarks Hill Lake and the natural places around it. And when you're ready to slow down, there's always a good local meal—and a place to stay—a little farther down the road.