Travelers Rest sits in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at around 1,100 feet elevation, offering a cooler alternative to South Carolina's lowlands. The area features several waterways including the Reedy River and South Saluda River, which influence local camping conditions with riverside sites available at several campgrounds. Tent and RV campers have options ranging from primitive creek-side camping to full-service RV parks within a 30-minute drive.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Jones Gap State Park Campground provides access to multiple waterfalls. "We did a short day hike to check out the camp sites and look at the waterfalls. The trails and the park are so very well kept up!" according to Melissa R. at Jones Gap State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: The area features extensive trail networks accessible from several campgrounds. "The sites start literally across the davidson river from the campground. Bike shops, coffee and supermarkets all within [easy reach]," notes Travis S. about Davidson River Campground.
Lake activities: Several campgrounds provide lake access for swimming and boating. "This campground has amenities for all types of camping styles," reports Jeff B. about Orchard Lake Campground, which includes "a pond [with] kayaks and canoes to use" according to JoAnne M.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing in rivers and lakes. "Great spot to catch some Brown and rainbow trout," explains Jon W. about Broken Oak Organics, adding that the river is "shallow enough for the kids play, with some nice spots to catch trout."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Among the best places to camp near Travelers Rest, South Carolina, Jones Gap State Park offers exceptional privacy. "Unlike other state park campgrounds, each spot is about a quart mile from the next, so you feel like you have the mountain to yourself," reports Emily S., who has stayed at multiple sites within the park.
Natural water features: Water access ranks high among camper preferences. At Table Rock State Park Campground, "you can swim, hike, camp, fish and kayak. You will see some excellent views of the mountain ranges," according to John B., who describes it as "one of the most beautiful places on earth."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for restrooms. "The bathhouse has a shower with great water pressure, a sink and toilet. Someone cleaned it during our stay," notes Heather C. about Broken Oak Organics, a small farm with both RV and tent sites.
Range of camping options: The area offers everything from primitive sites to cabins. "Variety of campsites available to suit any camping style. Great for families, as there are drive up camp sites with fire pits and plenty of space," explains Clair M. about Table Rock State Park.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the mountainous terrain have uneven sites. At Paris Mountain State Park, "some of the sites needed a little rehab and weren't very flat," reports Matt R. Another camper notes, "Nice large sites but very unlevel due to mountain side."
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Reserve well in advance," advises Todd R. about Devils Fork State Park Campground, which offers lakeside camping.
Narrow access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "The road through the park back to the campground is pretty narrow at some points - we don't know how we would have managed if we had met another RV!" reports Bounding Around about Paris Mountain State Park.
Elevation factors: Higher elevation campgrounds experience different weather patterns. Table Rock State Park can be "tad cool in the evenings, which would be perfect in the hot months," according to Sarah G., making it ideal when lower elevations are too hot.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Orchard Lake Campground offers multiple water options for children. "There is a slide in the middle of the pond that my son loved. When it rained the game room had a movie on and lots to do inside," explains Amanda M. about Orchard Lake Campground.
Accessible trail options: Paris Mountain State Park offers trails suitable for various ages. "Paris mountain is a personal favorite of mine and take any chance to go. This is a great dog friendly park with clean trails, plenty of parking, and friendly staff," according to Maddi P.
Proximity to emergency supplies: Some campgrounds are strategically located near towns. The Travelers Rest-North Greenville KOA is "easy to get to and tucked into the woods" while being close to both Travelers Rest and Greenville, notes Tim P., making it convenient for forgotten items.
Lawn games and recreation: Some campgrounds offer large open spaces. "My family enjoyed the huge lawn for yard games," mentions Jon W. about Broken Oak Organics, highlighting the importance of play space beyond formal recreation areas.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many mountain campsites require significant leveling. At Solitude Pointe Cabins & RV Park, "the sites are on level cement pads which makes set up easy," notes Tina H., adding, "It is on a steep hill, but the camp hosts escort you to the site and help navigate your camper in if needed."
Full-hookup options: Several campgrounds provide complete RV hookups. "Full hookups, and the staff helps you back in and level up. Great service," reports Don H. about Solitude Pointe, which is "close to Caesars Head and Table Rock" for convenient access to popular hiking spots.
Wi-Fi and cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Black Forest Family Camping Resort, "there is no Cell Reception at the campground but they have WiFi. The WiFi can only be accessed from a few places," according to Chris Y.
Water pressure considerations: Check reviews for utility performance. "The water pressure was not satisfactory and we couldn't take showers in our camper," warns Howell G. about Black Forest Family Camping Resort, highlighting the importance of asking about utilities when booking.
