Best Camping near Aiken, SC

Aiken is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Aiken is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Aiken camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Aiken, SC (85)

    Camper-submitted photo from Mistletoe State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mistletoe State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mistletoe State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mistletoe State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mistletoe State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mistletoe State Park Campground

    1.

    Mistletoe State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    323 Photos
    232 Saves
    J. Strom Thurmond Lake, Georgia

    This recreation area is part of J. Strom Thurmond Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Hamilton Branch State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hamilton Branch State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hamilton Branch State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hamilton Branch State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hamilton Branch State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hamilton Branch State Park Campground

    2.

    Hamilton Branch State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    117 Photos
    98 Saves
    Modoc, South Carolina

    This recreation area is part of J. Strom Thurmond Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Aiken State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aiken State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aiken State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aiken State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aiken State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aiken State Park Campground

    3.

    Aiken State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    29 Photos
    36 Saves
    Windsor, South Carolina

    Set along the South Edisto River, Aiken State Park is a haven for fishing, canoeing and kayaking.

    A scenic 1.7-mile canoe and kayak trail winds its way down the south fork of the Edisto River, attracting paddlers from across the region.

    Aiken State Park has a history as notable as its natural beauty. During the Great Depression, the park was built by two Civilian Conservation Corps companies, one of which was an African-American detachment of the C.C.C. Their work has withstood the test of time and can still be seen in some of the remaining structures and interpretive signage.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $28 - $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    4.

    Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    31 Reviews
    49 Photos
    19 Saves
    Modoc, South Carolina

    Overview

    Petersburg Campground is located on J. Strom Thurmond Lake, just four miles from the Thurmond Dam and Visitor Center and 25 miles from Augusta, Georgia. The 70,000 acre lake and its 1,000+ miles of shoreline provide excellent boating, water skiing, swimming, fishing, hiking and picnicking.

    Recreation

    Thurmond Lake provides some of the best fishing, hunting, and water sports in the southeastern United States. Anglers fish for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish and striped bass. The large lake offers endless boating, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing and swimming opportunities. Hikers have access to many miles of trails in the immediate area. The 1.8-mile Lake Springs Loop and the 27-mile Bartram Trail, which meanders along the scenic shoreline and through Wildwood Park, are both nearby. Shorter sections can be hiked from several intersecting trailheads.

    Facilities

    Thurmond Lake provides some of the best fishing, hunting, and water sports in the southeastern United States. Anglers fish for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish and striped bass. The large lake offers endless boating, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing and swimming opportunities. Hikers have access to many miles of trails in the immediate area. The 1.8-mile Lake Springs Loop and the 27-mile Bartram Trail, which meanders along the scenic shoreline and through Wildwood Park, are both nearby. Shorter sections can be hiked from several intersecting trailheads.

    Natural Features

    Hot, humid summers and mild, pleasant winters characterize this heavily wooded area on the shore of Thurmond Lake. A mixed pine and hardwood forest covers the site, providing summer shade and fall color. Wildlife is abundant around the lake. Visitors regularly see southern bald eagles, migratory waterfowl, wild turkeys and whitetail deer.

    Nearby Attractions

    Numerous parks and recreation areas lie around Thurmond Lake, providing additional boating, swimming, hunting, and hiking opportunities. Nearby cities house museums, art galleries, zoos, restaurants and shopping areas. The Augusta National Golf Club hosts the Masters Golf Tournament annually the first week of April.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground

    5.

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    217 Photos
    289 Saves
    Chapin, South Carolina
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    6.

    Modoc - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    12 Reviews
    30 Photos
    18 Saves
    Modoc, South Carolina

    Overview

    Modoc Campground is a popular park on J. Strom Thurmond Lake, just 5 miles from the Thurmond Visitor Center and Dam. The 70,000 acre lake and its 1,000+ miles of shoreline provide excellent boating, water skiing, swimming, fishing, hiking and picnicking.

    Recreation

    Thurmond Lake provides some of the best fishing, hunting and water sports in the southeastern United States. Anglers fish for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish and striped bass. The large lake offers endless boating, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing and swimming opportunities.

    Facilities

    Thurmond Lake provides some of the best fishing, hunting and water sports in the southeastern United States. Anglers fish for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, catfish and striped bass. The large lake offers endless boating, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing and swimming opportunities.

    Natural Features

    Hot, humid summers and mild, pleasant winters characterize this heavily wooded area on the shore of Thurmond Lake. A mixed pine and hardwood forest covers the site, providing summer shade and fall color. Wildlife is abundant around the lake. Visitors regularly see southern bald eagles, migratory waterfowl, wild turkeys and whitetail deer.

    Nearby Attractions

    Numerous parks and recreation areas lie around Thurmond Lake, providing additional boating, swimming, hunting and hiking opportunities. Nearby cities house museums, art galleries, zoos, restaurants, and shopping areas. The Augusta National Golf Club hosts the Masters Golf Tournament annually the first week of April.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Elijah Clark State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elijah Clark State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elijah Clark State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elijah Clark State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elijah Clark State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elijah Clark State Park Campground

    7.

    Elijah Clark State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    112 Photos
    94 Saves
    Lincolnton, Georgia

    This recreation area is part of J. Strom Thurmond Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $225 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Barnyard RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Barnyard RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Barnyard RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Barnyard RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Barnyard RV Park

    8.

    Barnyard RV Park

    7 Reviews
    5 Photos
    18 Saves
    Barnwell, South Carolina
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground

    9.

    Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground

    5 Reviews
    16 Photos
    3 Saves
    Jackson, South Carolina

    Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground is a beautiful 38-acre park in Waynesboro, GA. Our RV park is nestled amongst shady oak trees and away from the crowds. We love to serve leisure RVers/Campers as well as anyone needing to be near Augusta, Georgia and Waynesboro, Georgia. Residents and visitors love that Made in the Shade RV Park offers full hookups, WiFi throughout the park, air-conditioned on-site laundry, showers and bathrooms, and a gated pet park. To keep your stay comfortable, we offer daily, weekly, and monthly rates, and we have no monthly moving requirement. Call us and reserve your stay now.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
  • 10.

    Karen's Escape

    1 Review
    5 Photos
    4 Saves
    Aiken, South Carolina

    Big or small you can park here and have the whole place to yourselves!

    Private lot on my property, with plenty of room for a larger camper with 30 and 50-amp service and water. Pets are welcome. Safe neighborhood to walk.New Electric panel.

    $30/$40 per night.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $30 - $50 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 85 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Aiken

Recent Reviews In Aiken

424 Reviews of 85 Aiken Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Hamilton Branch State Park Campground
    September 14, 2024

    Hamilton Branch State Park Campground

    4 Camper Party

    4 families in 4 campers on a first time visit. Great place! If you want to come for solitude then the “sights”provide that for sure. Park staff very helpful and friendly. Definitely a do over. Only downside was we didn’t realize water level was down. Didn’t affect the views but trodding the mud to get to the water made kayaking a little challenging.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Raysville Marina
    September 12, 2024

    Raysville Marina

    Marina - fantastic

    Customer service when open in the off season!

    Friendly, accommodating, very responsive.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hamilton Branch State Park Campground
    September 2, 2024

    Hamilton Branch State Park Campground

    Quiet loop, private, lakefront

    The site is right on the lake with a wide trail leading directly to the water. The water was low during our trip so the immediate shoreline was a bit squishy going through the damp clay. I’d recommend water shoes. The shade provided by the trees was a welcome respite from the summer heat. It also provided ample privacy from neighbors on either side. Neighboring sites are spread out nicely. The area across the road from the site is undeveloped and recently cleared for forest maintenance but still looks nice. This campground loop is very quiet.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    August 25, 2024

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Beautiful Site

    Stayed for 2 nights at Tent Site 4 in early May and had wonderful weather! There was a big storm for about an hour after we set up camp, but the site drained well and it wasn't too buggy despite being right on the water. Loved the walkability, super easy walk on a slight decline from our parking space next to the stairs/path to the site. Two good spots for setting up a hammock. Loved watching the birds and occasional fish. Water and electric available and functioning on site. Quick walk to bathroom/shower.

    Overall a great experience!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    June 20, 2024

    Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    Just Ok

    We did not end up with a great site. It was on the water but the view was not great. I feel ridiculous saying that there were too many trees but they were all along the edge and completely blocked the view of the lake. The sites were pretty close together, even the ones across the water. We were in a little cove and we could hear everyone's conversations. We could hear the people on both sides as well as the people across the water. There was also a lot of poison ivy. It's still a beautiful lake and they had nice swimming beaches. The Bartram Trail runs through this campground as well.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Winfield - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    June 18, 2024

    Winfield - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    4.9 stars

    Gorgeous lake with no sign of civilization across from the campground. We swam right from our site and loved it. The sites are enormous, private, and provide panoramic lake views. Ours was perfect. Nice beach, playground, and everything well kept. I would imagine that on weekends the boat traffic might be slightly loud but on this Monday it was so peaceful and quiet. The site has a fire ring with grill, a standing grill, a picnic table, and a prep table. Again, the site is enormous. Great value at $32!!!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sumter National Forest Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area
    June 15, 2024

    Sumter National Forest Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area

    "roughing it" in a small secluded campground.

    I spent a great couple of days here mid-week in mid-June. There was one other occupied campsite (out of 9) the first night and I had the whole place to myself the second. No showers, no wi-fi or cell sevice, no dump station, no electricity, and a common water spigot-just what I wanted. No reservations either. 

    There were people who came to fish in the pond (more of a pond than a lake) and I had a nice swim.. There are two trails. A short one (about a mile) around the pond and a longer 5.6 mile loop. Great trail.

    Be sure to check the website for problems beforehand.   The water was out when I was there (actually it was restored just as I pulled out!!!).

    So all in all, I great place if you want a rough campsite with few others around.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Springs State Park Campground
    June 15, 2024

    Magnolia Springs State Park Campground

    Clean park with plenty to do

    Stayed for 2 nights in Site #3. Was called prior to arrival regarding checking in. Missed "closing time" but went to site and checked in next morning.  The Park fee is not included in the camping fee with is a bit of a pain, but I actually received a partial refund since the Senior rate was not included in my reservation.

    Plenty of well marked trails to hike, a nice lake, beautiful spring, and if you are interested a thorough Museum about the Civil war prison camp that was located on the grounds. (Note: there is no swimming at the spring)

    Sites are level with good power and water.  I felt they were a bit close, but we are not campground people.  #3 seemed one of the most private, even though right across from the Hosts and near the Bathhouse.  The Bathhouse was very clean and new.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    June 3, 2024

    Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    Great Getaway with Friends

    One of the nicer ACOE Campgrounds we’ve visited. Friends stayed here over the winter months and picked a couple nice sites for a future stay. Easy access in and out, back-in site was very large with lake views while keeping us in mostly shade. As with all campgrounds, some sites are better than others. But, wouldn’t complain about any if just staying a few nights.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground
    June 1, 2024

    Made in the Shade RV Park and Campground

    Made in the Shade is a jewel in Georgia

    This campground was quiet and tranquil. Large oaks and mature trees. Camping paradise. Immaculate grounds and facilities. Water, electric and gray water dumps at each site. Washers and dryers. Gravel sites, but it’s a place I hate to leave. Pet friendly and great staff.  Nice playground and horseshoes area as well!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Oak RV Park
    May 3, 2024

    Sandy Oak RV Park

    Quick stop for the night

    Needed a quick stop and contacted them last minute. They had a pull thru spot and were great at accommodating us. Shower, bathroom and laundry. Wow!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pointes West Army Resort
    April 3, 2024

    Pointes West Army Resort

    Friendly and helpful Hosts

    We were able to park our 44 ft. Fifth wheel with ease with little assistance from a park host. The only reason why I didn't give a 5 star was because we were very close to neighbors. They were all in a row so if you open your curtains others can see you. Full hookups.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Mistletoe State Park Campground
    March 10, 2024

    Mistletoe State Park Campground

    Such a great first experience at Mistletoe!

    This site was absolutely perfect for our first trip out in our new camper. Our dog also loved the water! Bathrooms and showers are clean and easily accessible. Several fishing spots and places to launch kayaks and three boat ramps. Sites are clean and well maintained. The fishing is AMAZING! 20 palm sized shell cracker on the first day!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    March 1, 2024

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Beautiful Lakeside

    Stayed at TENT site 13. It sits with two other tent sites on a small peninsula at the bottom of Dreher Island State Park. It’s a nice large site with a large tent pad. There quite a few good trees to hang a hammock, which I camped in. Absolutely gorgeous sunrise, sunset, and when I was there the moon was full.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Big Rig Friendly RV Resort
    January 30, 2024

    Big Rig Friendly RV Resort

    Really nice place

    This place was well thought out when it was being built, lots of space, great level sites, nice dog park. Fitness center and laundry are new and nice.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Big Hart Campground
    December 29, 2023

    Big Hart Campground

    Great site, super friendly staff, easy access . Yep, has it all

    Staff was superb with a last minute booking. We arrived after closing but they saw us coming in and checked that we were good. That was SO nice when coming in the dark and dog tired. Sites are large, well spaced and on the lake. Wi-Fi not bad, campground less than 10 minutes off interstate yet super quiet, no road noise. I’d post pictures but every time I try I get kicked out and half to start over.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake
    November 22, 2023

    Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake

    Large Lakeside Sites with Lake Views

    Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake Campground: (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

    (70 yr olds in 17’ trailer with a desire for a campsite that has at least some visual privacy - after the trailer is in the spot.)

    Overall Rating: 4.5 Price 2023: $ 14 w interagency pass Usage during visit: Heavy, going into Thanksgiving weekend. Site Privacy: All sites are set back from campground loop road Site Spacing: Tremendous Site surface: Gravel. Reservations: Yes Campground Noise: Quiet. Road Noise: None Through Traffic in campground: No reason.
    Electric Hookup: Yes Sewer Hookup: Yes Dump Station: Ues Potable Water Available: At site.
    Bathroom: Flush toilets Showers: Yes. Single curtain separation. Cell Service (AT&T): 2 bars Setting: Most sites are lakeside sites.
    Weather: Rain, partial sun Bugs: No bites.
    Host: Yes Rig size: Large rigs okay Sites: Most and maybe all sites have water views. Site 6 has a great view. Other sites have great views as well. Site 28 has a tremendous view.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Baker Creek
    November 1, 2023

    Baker Creek

    Beautiful lakeside views

    Rough roads, poor shower house, undeveloped sites. But man, what a view

  • Camper-submitted photo from Baker Creek State Park Campground
    October 21, 2023

    Baker Creek State Park Campground

    Great campground

    This is our first time here and it was great other than I wish the site we picked was better. We r tent campers and the site was rather uneven and not much room. But the other sites from what I seen are great. A good mix of tent and rvs where here. Easy access to the lake for fishing. We stayed at site 17 might be better if we had a small pull behind for this site but oh well we made the best of it and enjoyed our trip.



Guide to Aiken

Camping near Aiken, South Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, the campgrounds in this area have something to offer.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Hamilton Branch State Park Campground, provide excellent fishing spots. One visitor mentioned, "The fishing is AMAZING! 20 palm-sized shell cracker on the first day!"
  • Hiking: Trails are abundant, especially at Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park. A camper shared, "Me and my wife had a great time on the trail. Close to 4 miles long, and pretty easy."
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Enjoy the water at places like Dreher Island State Park Campground. One reviewer noted, "We spent 90% of our time on the lake swimming, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and enjoying one of the best lakes we’ve ever experienced."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the sites. A visitor at Magnolia Springs State Park Campground said, "Bathrooms are cleaner than my house. Site had good access."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A reviewer at Aiken State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a person that stays on site that is super friendly and will help you with anything that you need."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One guest at Lake Greenwood State Park Campground remarked, "Beautiful site right on Lake. Plenty of places to walk. Beautiful scenery."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake, have fewer amenities. A camper noted, "There was also a lot of poison ivy. It's still a beautiful lake and they had nice swimming beaches."
  • Site Proximity: Sites can be close together. A visitor at Elijah Clark State Park Campground mentioned, "Campsites are relatively flat. Good picnic tables at each site."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. One camper at Aiken State Park Campground warned, "There was a seemingly stray dog running around. Super sweet and timid around people, but we have our dog with us."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. A reviewer at Elijah Clark State Park Campground said, "Great playgrounds for kids, plus mini golf and kayak rentals."
  • Activities for Kids: Many parks offer activities to keep kids entertained. One camper at Magnolia Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "There were also alligators and turtles in the pond. The turtles would swim up to the railing wanting someone to drop them some food."
  • Family-Friendly Sites: Choose sites that are spacious and close to amenities. A visitor at Lake Greenwood State Park Campground noted, "The campground itself is great, it is steep so big plenty of blocks! Great views."

Tips from RVers:

  • Big Rig Friendly: Many campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. A reviewer at Dreher Island State Park Campground said, "Easy access in and out, back-in site was very large with lake views while keeping us in mostly shade."
  • Electric Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Hamilton Branch State Park Campground mentioned, "The site is right on the lake with a wide trail leading directly to the water."
  • Dump Stations: Check for dump station availability. A camper at Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake noted, "The dump station was convenient and clean."

Camping around Aiken, SC, offers a variety of experiences, from fishing and hiking to family-friendly activities and RV accommodations. Whether you're a seasoned camper or trying it for the first time, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Aiken, SC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Aiken, SC offers a wide range of camping options, with 85 campgrounds and RV parks near Aiken, SC and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Aiken, SC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Aiken, SC is Mistletoe State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 66 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Aiken, SC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Aiken, SC.

  • What parks are near Aiken, SC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Aiken, SC that allow camping, notably J. Strom Thurmond Lake and Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests.