Camping near Allendale, South Carolina centers around an area with mild winters and hot, humid summers, making it accessible year-round. The region sits at low elevations near the Savannah River basin with sandy soils and longleaf pine forests. Road noise can be a consideration at some sites due to proximity to I-95, a major transportation corridor through the area.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Magnolia Springs State Park Campground offers pond fishing where campers can catch various species. "Plenty of trails with birdwatching and animal watching including alligators. There is a beautiful natural spring and the site has a museum," notes Cathy C., highlighting the multiple outdoor activities available.
Wildlife viewing: Take time to observe native species in their habitats throughout the region. "We could see vultures and an armadillo. That finished with hot chocolate and roasting marshmallows!" Sarah F. says about a ranger-led hike at Magnolia Springs.
Family farm experiences: Crunchy Acres provides unique agricultural interactions not found at conventional campgrounds. "Ashley here with The Dyrt! I'm excited to welcome your friendly host, John. John has opened his 19 acre family farm up to visitors. Come meet their chickens, goats, pigs, turkey, and rabbits!" writes a reviewer describing the farm activities available.
Recreational rentals: Many campgrounds offer equipment rentals for water activities. "You can also rent paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, and bikes. All the trailers are family friendly," reports Sarah F. about the options at Magnolia Springs State Park Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Point South KOA maintains high standards for bathrooms and common areas. "The staff was really friendly and helpful in guiding us to our site. Our site was located close to the bathrooms and showers, which were very clean, and the gravel surfaces were even and looked well-kept," Christine V. notes.
Ranger programs: Educational offerings enhance the camping experience. "We participated in a hike with the park manager where she told us about the animals in the park and even let us feel grey fox and beaver pelts," Sarah F. shares about Magnolia Springs activities.
Convenience for travelers: New Green Acres RV Park serves as a practical stopover. "This campground is right off 95 and very easy to access. Loud highway noise, but tolerable. Tall trees everywhere. Very pretty! No rock or concrete pad to park on so be prepared to level your RV," Tracey S. advises.
Diverse accommodation options: Glamping close to Allendale, South Carolina ranges from rustic to well-appointed. "Most are level. Water and electric sites and a dump station," Joel R. describes about Magnolia Springs State Park Campground.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Some campgrounds prioritize convenience over quiet. "This is just off 95, so it's not quiet. It is green instead of gravel, so that's nice. Lots of trees and all pull thru spaces," Mimi points out regarding New Green Acres RV Park.
Wildlife precautions: Magnolia Springs State Park Campground has natural predators nearby. "There were numerous signs posted for alligators and bears. I didn't put a lot of stock into the bear signs due to the fact that none of the garbage cans or anything were 'bear-proof'. We did finally see one gator as we walked by the spring," Jay B. reports.
Connectivity challenges: Internet access varies considerably between sites. "Wifi only works right at the office, which is a bummer," Mimi notes about New Green Acres RV Park.
Seasonal facilities: Check which amenities are operational during your visit. "Has a pool but currently being repaired," Wilma K. mentions about New Green Acres RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "In the center or the campground there is a small playground. The kids didn't end on it too much, but it was a nice addition. There is also some permanent (concrete) cornhole setup, but you'll need your own bean bags," Sarah F. explains about family amenities at Magnolia Springs.
Educational opportunities: Point South KOA provides learning experiences for children. "We stopped for one night, very convenient location right off the highway. Our kids loved the gem mining and playground," Christa C. shares.
Multiple activities: Plan for various recreation options to keep children engaged. "We checked out the giant chess board, playground, horse shoes, and corn hole," writes a camper at Point South KOA.
Safety considerations: Wildlife viewing requires appropriate supervision. "The spring is very pretty, with turtles and fish swimming under the bridges of the walkway, and there were lots of alligators along the stream. We let our dogs swim in the lake before we realized the gators were probably there as well," Joel R. cautions.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Most campgrounds accommodate larger rigs but with some limitations. "This park has really really long spaces. It's great for when towing a long trailer too but be mindful that there is a whole pile of trees. So when making reservations make sure you let them know you need something long but also easily accessible too," Mike F. advises about New Green Acres RV Park.
Easy access: The region offers convenient overnight stops for travelers. "Full hookups. All pull through. Easy Easy in and out. Quiet even tho close to I95," notes BC— G. about New Green Acres RV Park.
Site preparation: Many glamping accommodations near Allendale require some setup work. "No rock or concrete pad to park on so be prepared to level your RV," Tracey S. recommends for New Green Acres RV Park.
Site maintenance: Staff at Point South KOA actively manage campsite conditions. "In fact, we saw the staff promptly re-leveling the sites after folks checked out," Christine V. observes.
