Best Campgrounds near Andrews, SC
The Francis Marion National Forest offers several free primitive camping areas near Andrews, South Carolina, primarily consisting of dispersed sites without hookups or modern amenities. Guilliard Lake and Honey Hill Recreation Area provide basic camping options for tent and small RV campers approximately 20 miles from Andrews. The area also includes developed campgrounds like Hidden Marina & Campground along the Sampit River and Mr. Levy's Riceland Farm on the Black River. While most primitive sites lack electricity, water, or sewer connections, several established campgrounds in neighboring communities offer full hookups for RVs and cabin rentals, particularly near coastal areas like Myrtle Beach.
Road conditions pose significant challenges when accessing the more remote camping locations in this region. Forest service roads leading to Guilliard Lake feature large potholes and uneven surfaces that require careful navigation. Several campgrounds like Elmwood Recreation Area and Honey Hill provide vault toilets and drinking water access, though water quality varies seasonally. Most free dispersed sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. One visitor described Guilliard Lake access as particularly difficult: "The dirt road in for several miles has VERY large potholes and you have to weave across the track to avoid them. Ok with car if very careful especially at night."
The camping experience in this coastal forest region varies significantly between developed and primitive sites. The Francis Marion National Forest campgrounds provide quiet settings under pine and oak trees, with campers frequently reporting wildlife sightings including birds, otters, and occasionally bald eagles. Honey Hill Recreation Area receives positive reviews for its spacious sites and natural setting, with one camper noting, "Nice large sites mostly shaded but I managed to find one that gets enough sun for my solar panels." Many sites feature concrete picnic tables and fire rings, though some primitive areas lack formal infrastructure. Cell reception varies throughout the region, with stronger signals at developed campgrounds. Campers seeking water recreation can access boat ramps at several locations, with fishing opportunities available on the Black and Sampit Rivers.
