Alston Trailhead, near Newberry, South Carolina, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. This free location offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for tent and RV camping, with a spacious parking lot and several camp areas featuring fire pits.

Visitors have mentioned the beautiful scenery and easy access to the Palmetto Trail, making it a great place for morning walks. While there are no bathrooms or drinking water available, many campers appreciate the quiet environment, with one reviewer noting, “It was like being a kid where you could hear the train off in the distance.” 

The area is known for its natural beauty, with plenty of trees and open spaces to soak in the sights. Just keep in mind that the nearby train tracks can be a bit noisy at night, but that hasn’t stopped folks from enjoying their stay. Whether you're passing through or planning a longer visit, Alston Trailhead is a convenient and scenic choice for your next camping adventure.

The Alston trailhead park provides parking, picnicking, camping, and canoe access on the Broad River. 3 night maximum for camping.

Alston Trailhead

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Chapin. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Chapin is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Chapin, reviewed by campers like you.

Chapin

The Best Camping Near Chapin, South Carolina

This place is nice and quiet. Except for being snuggled up to a train track. Twice in the night the train came through. But we laughed, it was like being a kid where you could hear the train off in the distance and would ride your bike to go watch it pass. Nice experience, beautiful trailhead, lots and lots of bikepackers. It’s so cool to have somewhere like this in our own backyard. Definitely Recommend!

Alston Campground 

There are several camp areas, fire pits and picnic tables at the beginning of the trail with a big gravel parking lot

Amazing camp site

Beautiful place! Unfortunately no space for us to drive our bus to a camp spot but plenty of room in parking lot. Just a nice little spot to stop before hitting the road again.

Stay at TrailHead

This site is awesome. The scenery is beautiful and it is super easy to access. You can hear coyotes howling at night. 

The only problem is the train. It woke us up at least 4 times last night. You can see the train from your campsite.

Everything else was perfect for us though! 

Amazing site, minus the train

We enjoyed this free trailhead parking. No bathroom, and the train only woke us up once in the night. Only one other van there with us, so very quiet and peaceful. Lovely walk on the Palmetto trail in the morning. There are also “walk-in” campsites right behind the trailhead signs in the trees.

Photos of Alston Trailhead

Real photos from real campers