Bartram Trail - Clarks Hill Lake

Bartram Trail - Clarks Hill Lake is a long Columbia County hiking and biking route associated with J. Strom Thurmond Lake recreation areas. The trail is named for naturalist William Bartram and gives visitors a substantial outdoor route through lake-area terrain, forest, and quiet recreation corridors near Appling.

This trail is best suited for visitors who want more mileage than a short state park loop. Depending on the segment, users may encounter natural-surface footing, rolling terrain, lake scenery, and remote-feeling stretches. The route can support longer hikes or rides, but careful planning is important because access points, conditions, and distances vary.

Before visiting, check U.S. Army Corps of Engineers information for trail conditions, access, and any closures. Bring water, navigation, and appropriate gear, and plan a realistic turnaround or shuttle strategy for longer outings.

The Clarks Hill Lake Bartram Trail is a long lake-area route that requires route planning and current condition checks. Always leave no trace, pack out everything you pack in, and if you see trash, pick it up and pack it out.

Stay on the marked trail, tell someone where you're going, pack safety and wayfinding essentials, and do not rely only on a mobile phone to find your way. Practice good trail etiquette, yield appropriately on shared-use trails, and check the trailhead kiosk, official maps, park office, or ranger office for notices about changed routes, closures, safety information, fees, and restrictions before you go.