Francis Marion National Forest provides several rustic camping options near Andrews, South Carolina. The forest encompasses over 250,000 acres with diverse wetland ecosystems and pine forests typical of South Carolina's coastal plain. Most dispersed camping areas in this region offer no amenities and require self-sufficient preparation with access roads that vary seasonally based on weather conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Palmetto Trail system runs through Halfway Creek Primitive Camping, offering well-maintained paths for day hikes. "Hiking trails are nice and groomed. Very peaceful and everyone stays to themselves," notes Nick C. about the Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping area.
Kayaking: Pitts Landing provides direct river access for paddlers looking to explore local waterways. "The river is gorgeous and we spent a good amount of our time here kayaking," reports The Longs about their experience at Pitts Landing Dispersed.
Wildlife observation: The forest supports diverse bird and animal populations. One camper at Guilliard Lake mentions specific wildlife sightings: "Bald eagles, owls, otter, fish. It's beautiful."
What campers like
River access: The waterfront sites at Pitts Landing are particularly popular. "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," according to Tami K.
Seclusion: Despite being relatively close to Charleston, the camping areas provide a sense of remoteness. Adam V. describes Halfway Creek Primitive Camping - TEMPORARILY CLOSED as "one of those nearest far away places due to the seclusion."
Security: Some campers appreciate the occasional patrol presence. "I stayed out here for a full night. The area has been cleaned up and a few times during the day and night a police officer patrolled the area. Just smiled and waved," reports Cori B.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites can be challenging. Andy K. warns about one location, "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."
Variable conditions: Site cleanliness can fluctuate significantly between visits. Bradley T. notes about one location, "Immediately upon entering the roundabout is just completely full of trash, all the time."
Site confusion: Some camping areas lack clear signage. David H. reports, "There's a trailhead parking lot a little beyond the coordinates which you can't overnight camp in your vehicle. However, there were tents in the trail a bit, so it might just be walk in tent specific, and not for vans? Still unsure."
Tips for camping with families
Pack out waste: Teach children about leave-no-trace principles. Ethan B. emphasizes, "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."
Beach camping option: For families with boat access, Caper's Island offers a unique experience. Michelle C. shares, "Caper's Island is a boat-in beach/camping area located on the Intracoastal Waterway just outside Charleston, SC. It is no frills, pack it in, pack it out camping with no amenities beyond what you bring with you. After we set up our campsite, we went on a long walk down the boneyard beach for firewood and sea shell hunting (tons of conch shells and sand dollars)."
Supply planning: Ensure you bring all necessary supplies. Andy K. advises, "Definitely make sure you have all you need before getting to the site, not a road you want to keep traveling down."
Tips from RVers
Site assessment: Check sites before committing to park. Tami K. recommends, "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."
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas near Andrews restrict larger vehicles. Vinny D. reports difficulty even with a modified vehicle: "My rig is a 21 ft Promaster 3500 with OHV lift and was able to turn around but not without doubt."
Pull-through options: For smaller RVs, some areas do offer limited accommodation. Adam V. notes, "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."
