🌤 Weather at Mistletoe State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 41–83 °F | 67–92 °F | 40–86 °F | 32–61 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Appling 2 NW, 7 mi away, elevation 396 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Mistletoe State Park sits on Clarks Hill Lake (J. Strom Thurmond Reservoir)—Georgia’s largest lake and one of the premier bass fishing destinations in the country. This peaceful lakeside retreat offers 10 cottages including classic log cabins with lake views, 92 campsites, a summer beach, three boat ramps, and endless opportunities for fishing, boating, and waterfront relaxation.
🎣 Premier Bass Fishing!
- Clarks Hill Lake: One of the best bass lakes in the US!
- Species: Largemouth bass, bream, catfish
- Tournaments: Frequently hosted at the park
- Valid Georgia fishing license required
Clarks Hill Lake – Georgia’s Largest
| Lake Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 💧 Size | Georgia’s largest lake |
| 🏛️ Also Known As | J. Strom Thurmond Reservoir |
| 🎣 Fishing | Premier bass destination |
| 🚤 Boat Ramps | 3 public ramps |
| ⚡ Motors | Trolling speed only in park |
Cottages & Cabins
| Lodging | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏠 Total Cottages | 10 (on lake) |
| 🪵 Log Cabins | 5 |
| 🎣 Fisherman’s Cabin | Private dock, master suite, kitchen |
| 🐕 Pet-Friendly | Yes (Fisherman’s Cabin) |
| ♿ ADA Accessible | Fisherman’s Cabin |
| 💰 Peak Rate | Up to $175/night |
Camping – 92 Sites
| Site Type | Count |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Single-Family Sites | 92 |
| 🚶 Walk-To Sites | 4 |
| 🏕️ Backcountry Sites | 3 |
| 👥 Pioneer Camp | 1 |
| Camping Info | Details |
|---|---|
| ⚡ Hookups | Electric & water available |
| 🌊 Lakeshore Sites | Some with lake views! |
| 🚿 Facilities | Bathhouses, hot showers |
| 💰 Rates | From $12/night |
| 📶 Wi-Fi | Available at park office |
Beach & Activities
| Activities | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏖️ Beach | Seasonal (summer) |
| 🛶 Rentals | Canoes, Jon boats, kayaks |
| 🎣 Fishing | Largemouth bass, bream, catfish |
| 🚤 Boating | Trolling speed only |
| 🧒 Playground | Available |
Wildlife & Nature
Mistletoe SP — 1,920 acres on Clarks Hill Lake (71,000 acres). The park is named for the American mistletoe growing in its trees. The park’s lake, pine-hardwood forest, and coves support bald eagles, osprey, and white-tailed deer. Largemouth bass, striped bass, and crappie are abundant.
Nearby Attractions
Appling — adjacent. Augusta — 25 miles east. Bobby Brown SP — 20 miles north.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Clarks Hill Lake famous for bass fishing?
Clarks Hill Lake (J. Strom Thurmond Reservoir) is consistently ranked as one of the premier bass fishing destinations in the entire country. The lake is known for exceptional largemouth bass fishing, along with bream and catfish. Fishing tournaments are frequently hosted at Mistletoe State Park. A valid Georgia fishing license is required.
What’s the Fisherman’s Cabin?
The Fisherman’s Cabin is a special lakefront cottage featuring a private dock, master suite with full-size bed, queen sleeper sofa, fully equipped kitchen, and satellite TV. It’s both pet-friendly and ADA accessible—perfect for anglers who want to fish right from their cabin!
Can I bring my boat?
Yes! The park has 3 public boat ramps for lake access. All motorized boats must operate at trolling speed only within the park area. For those without boats, the park offers seasonal rentals including canoes, Jon boats, and kayaks for overnight guests.
Is there a beach at the park?
Yes! Mistletoe State Park has a sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months. It’s a perfect spot to cool off after a day of fishing or hiking. Check with the park for current beach hours and conditions.
How much does it cost to visit?
Daily entry is $10 per vehicle. Camping rates start at $12/night for basic tent sites, with cabins up to $175/night during peak season. The park is open year-round, offering peaceful lakeside retreats in every season.
🎣 Georgia’s Bass Fishing Paradise
Cast your line in one of America’s best bass lakes, stay in a log cabin on the water, or camp lakeside under the stars. Visit the official Mistletoe State Park website for 2026 cabin and camping reservations.
Explore More Georgia State Parks
Mistletoe State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Georgia. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Georgia guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Elijah Clark State Park (a short drive away) or Bobby Brown State Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Mistletoe State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Leashed dogs are welcome in Georgia State Parks, including campgrounds and most park trails, and must be accompanied by the owner at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 feet required at all times; dogs may not be tied to trees or fences.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted in swimming areas or on beaches.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are banned from lodges, yurts and group camps; designated dog-friendly cottages are available for a $50 fee per dog (maximum 2 dogs) covering the entire stay.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; $50 per dog (max 2) per stay in dog-friendly cottages.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Dogs prohibited on certain trails at Tallulah Gorge and Panola Mountain; fenced dog park at Laura S. Walker State Park; 'Tails on Trails Club' rewards program.
Are dogs allowed at Mistletoe State Park?
Leashed dogs are welcome in Georgia State Parks, including campgrounds and most park trails, and must be accompanied by the owner at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via gastateparks.org. More: Georgia state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Mistletoe State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
