Top Free Dispersed Camping near Pawleys Island, SC

Looking for the best dispersed camping near Pawleys Island? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pawleys Island, SC (4)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Pawleys Island

12 Reviews of 4 Pawleys Island Campgrounds


  • The Longs ..The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pitts Landing
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Pitts Landing

    Popular with the locals.

    We made our way here just before Hurricane Milton hit Florida and stayed a week right next to the river. Very busy during the day with local fishermen. There's a lot of garage spread out, we cleaned up our area the best we could. Close to a busy highway but it didn't bother us. The river is gorgeous and we spent a good amount of our time here kayaking.

  • Tami K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pitts Landing
    Jun. 19, 2024

    Pitts Landing

    Secluded Gem

    This was a nice spot with flat, river front dispersed sites for tents or boondocking. It was easy to discern the campsites and had an open parking lot. There were a few sites that are not safe to drive to because of very loose sand. It is safer to park and explore on foot before driving up to those sites.

  • Andy K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Guilliard Lake
    Mar. 17, 2023

    Guilliard Lake

    Ok campground very tricky road in

    This is not a campground for anyone with a large rig or RV. The dirt road in for several miles has VERY large potholes and you have to weave across the track to avoid them. Ok with car if very careful especially at night. Not really what I would call a lake more like a large stream. Several sites back on to the stream but at a higher level. Cell signal with Verizon 2 bars seemed ok. Definitely make sure you have all you need before getting to the site, not a road you want to keep traveling down

  • Ethan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfway Creek Primitive Camping - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
    Jan. 4, 2023

    Halfway Creek Primitive Camping - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    Buggie

    Good camping spot. On the campground there is a hiking trail. You can pull your car in almost about anywhere, just be aware of low hanging branches. Had to deal with a ton of insects. Decently quiet at night. I do say it was packed when we were there. Also pls clean up after yourself

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfway Creek Primitive Camping - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
    Nov. 8, 2022

    Halfway Creek Primitive Camping - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    Trashy campground

    Not a great campsite. I’m a big fan of primitive, and this is primitive, but too many things make it not worth it for me and mine. Immediately upon entering the roundabout is just completely full of trash, all the time. There are a few homeless people whose favorite pastime seems to be to scream as loudly as they can as often as they can, time of day (or night) not relevant whatsoever. I’ve given this place a few chances now, and every time I have been disappointed. Stay at your own risk.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping
    Nov. 8, 2022

    Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping

    Trash everywhere, Agressive Homeless People

    Not a great campsite. I’m a big fan of primitive, and this is primitive, but too many things make it not worth it for me and mine. Immediately upon entering the roundabout is just completely full of trash, all the time. There are a few homeless people whose favorite pastime seems to be to scream as loudly as they can as often as they can, time of day (or night) not relevant whatsoever. I’ve given this place a few chances now, and every time I have been disappointed. Stay at your own risk.

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Guilliard Lake
    Jun. 2, 2022

    Guilliard Lake

    Couldn’t find anything

    Following the directions I drove to the coordinates nothing and came to a junction. I would have continued on but between me and the the other road was a sinkhole. I honestly don’t think a 4X4 would have made it. Before I got there I had already turned off my ESC. My right is a 21 ft Promaster 3500 with OHV lift and was able to turn around but not without doubt.

  • Adam V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping
    Nov. 30, 2020

    Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping

    Primitive National Forest Camping

    This is a primitive area along the Palmetto Trail in the Francis Marion National Forest.

    Many hiker's heading to or coming down from the Appalachian Trail will camp here in a beautiful setting underneath live oak trees.

    There are 3 areas to camp: along the dirt loop road, a big field, and a few areas tucked back in the trees.

    This first appears to be a small campground due to the size of the road's loop. But, there are several large areas with plenty of room for tent or hammock camping.

    There are only a couple spots for an RV or Travel Trailer to park, but they are pull through along the side of the main loop.  

    Plenty of parking for those willing to walk their gear into the large field, or along the camping areas down by the trail. 

    Depending on the year, you'll either have this campsite all to yourself, or be sharing it with 100 other tents. Large groups love this free site (i.e. church youth groups) as it's easy to get to and about 30 minutes to Charleston, SC.

    I've always found this place to be one of those "nearest far away places" due to the seclusion.

    Everything here is pack in and pack out, so don't expect anything fancy, just a free and fun spot to camp for a night. Down the road is the Wambaw Cycle Trail, a maintained trail system for motocross & dirt bikes.



Guide to Pawleys Island

Camping near Pawleys Island, South Carolina, offers a mix of beach fun and nature exploration. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Myrtle Beach State Park Campground, provide easy access to the beach. One camper mentioned, "The water was really warm and enjoyable to swim in," making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Fishing and Trails: At Huntington Beach State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and scenic walking trails. A visitor noted, "The combination of paved trails and opportunity to see wildlife set this state park apart from many others."
  • Family Activities: Campgrounds like Ocean Lakes Family Campground offer a waterpark, mini-golf, and playgrounds. One family shared, "Love all the daily activities and amenities. Bathhouse is always clean and staff is helpful."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Myrtle Beach State Park Campground stated, "Overall it is quiet and has clean grounds, restrooms and showers."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds provide roomy sites. A camper at Huntington Beach State Park Campground remarked, "Most sites are spacious, level and well maintained."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. One visitor at Lakewood Camping Resort said, "Grounds and facilities exceptional. Well maintained ground, all staff friendly."

What you should know:

  • Site Privacy: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A review for Myrtle Beach State Park Campground noted, "The sites were SUPER close together which kinda ruined the 'camping vibes.'"
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Pirateland Family Camping Resort mentioned, "Usage during visit: 90% full."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A visitor at Myrtle Beach KOA said, "Cold showers, so far to everything."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. One camper at Ocean Lakes Family Campground shared, "The beach has basketball courts, playgrounds, and you can rent golf carts."
  • Plan for Meals: Many campgrounds have stores or nearby restaurants. A family at Lakewood Camping Resort enjoyed the on-site food options, saying, "The food is delicious on site when you don’t feel like grilling."
  • Check for Dog Policies: If you're bringing a pet, make sure to check the campground's pet policy. A camper at Pirateland Family Camping Resort noted, "Very dog-friendly campground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Site Size Matters: Choose campgrounds that can accommodate larger rigs. A review for Huntington Beach State Park Campground mentioned, "Large rigs will fit in many sites."
  • Electric Hookups: Ensure your campground has the right hookups for your RV. A camper at Myrtle Beach Travel Park appreciated the "full hookups" available.
  • Avoid Peak Times: If possible, try to camp during off-peak times to avoid crowds. A visitor at Myrtle Beach KOA suggested, "We go in September after school starts back up so it's still very warm but not as crazy busy."

Camping near Pawleys Island, South Carolina, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for beach fun, family activities, or a peaceful retreat in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pawleys Island, SC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pawleys Island, SC is Guilliard Lake with a 3.3-star rating from 3 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pawleys Island, SC?

    TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Pawleys Island, SC, with real photos and reviews from campers.