Aiken State Park covers 1,067 acres including 1.7 miles of the South Fork Edisto River. Campers can experience the unique blend of South Carolina's sandhills ecosystem with access to four distinct hiking trails totaling 3.5 miles. Winter camping requires preparation as overnight temperatures can drop to 20°F in January, though daytime highs typically reach the mid-50s.
What to do
Kayaking on South Edisto River: Aiken State Park Campground offers river access with equipment rentals available on-site. "Really clean camp sites, they offer primitive camping without any amenities these camp sites are more secluded and peaceful in my opinion its also near a large fishing pond and creek," notes Jessica K.
Geocaching adventures: Seek hidden treasures throughout the wooded areas of Hamilton Branch State Park Campground. "Plenty of activities for kids and adults alike, including geocaching," reports Kim H., making this an excellent option for tech-savvy outdoor enthusiasts.
Mountain biking trails: Access the Bartram Trail directly from Petersburg Campground for extensive riding options. "Mountain bike trails in either direction just at the park entrance. Our site like most was right on the lake, and because we were out on more of a peninsula had great sunsets," explains Christina.
Winter camping challenges: Prepare for cold nights if visiting from November through March. "We came in early January and it was really cold. At night a ranger brought me a pile of firewood which was really nice," reports Kevin T. about his Aiken State Park experience.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake offers numerous lakeside sites with direct water entry. "Almost all are pull through. They're also pretty well spaced out for privacy and plenty of space for each site," writes Alex C., highlighting the spacious layout.
Wildlife viewing: Primitive sites provide better wildlife spotting opportunities. "We slept with no rain fly, looking at the stars and listening to coyotes howl at night," notes Jay B. about his experience at Aiken State Park.
Clean facilities: State park maintenance receives consistent praise from visitors. "Comfort stations close and clean. Lots of water activities," reports Stephanie K. about her stay at Mistletoe State Park, reflecting the general upkeep standards throughout the region.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. "Secluded sites allow for privacy. Great, helpful staff! Park is surrounded by a like and most sites have direct access to the water," says Brian C. about Hamilton Branch State Park Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access routes to several campgrounds have challenging turns and narrow passages. "Narrow winding dirt road to small campsites. Bathhouse in the center. Check out the site pictures on their website, they are accurate," advises Cathy C.
Cell service limitations: Mistletoe State Park Campground and other parks in the region have minimal connectivity. "No phone or internet use. It was very quiet and it offered walking trails, small beach area on lake," explains Kristin E. about Aiken State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for lakefront sites. "Camp sites are nice with lots of room between other sites. can be reserved 11 months out. good fishing and swimming. prepare your site for ants they will get into everything if not," warns Swain K.
Ants and insects: Multiple campers mention ant problems at waterfront sites, particularly during warmer months. Bring appropriate repellents and food storage containers.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Sandy Oak RV Park provides family-friendly water recreation. "We will definitely be back to take advantage of the swimming pond, paddle boats, fishing & playground!" notes Nick & Allyssa S., highlighting the range of activities available.
Ranger programs: Several state parks offer junior ranger activities and educational programs. "We saw many family's camping here with young kids," mentions Kennon H. about Aiken State Park, indicating its child-friendly atmosphere.
Playground access: Check which parks have functional play areas. "In the main park there is a few fishing ponds with the ability to rent Kayaks, a spring fed pond with a swimming area, hiking trails, playground and also bathrooms and picnic tables," Jessica K. reports about Aiken State Park.
Free fishing gear: Some parks provide complimentary equipment for children. "Free fishing pole for kids," notes Amy C. about her stay at Mistletoe State Park, making it easier for families to enjoy water activities without bringing all their own gear.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Karen's Escape offers convenient access for RVs near equestrian attractions. "Very flat wide open lot within minutes to the Aiken horse park and downtown," reports Kevin C., highlighting its accessibility.
Electric hookup considerations: RVers should verify electricity reliability, especially during peak summer cooling needs. "We had no hookeups, but water and a dump station is available. We had to switch sites when we arrived due to a space issue. We have a 32' RV and the site stated a max of 35' but there was a tent pad that would have interfered with us being level," explains Jen.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds provide dump stations but not full hookups. "It does not have sewer but a dump site," notes Kristin E., which requires planning for longer stays.
Backing challenges: Many sites require careful maneuvering. "Sites 18 would have been easier to back in to with the same amount of privacy," advises Cathy C., suggesting campers research specific site dimensions before booking.
