Campgrounds near Hartsville, South Carolina offer diverse camping environments ranging from forested settings to lakeside retreats. Located in the Sandhills region at approximately 220 feet above sea level, the area features a humid subtropical climate with temperatures averaging 60-80°F during spring and fall camping seasons. Sandy soil conditions throughout the region create excellent drainage at most campsites, though summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds at Sugarloaf Mountain provide excellent angling options away from crowds. "I have stayed here multiple times. I really love setting up on the water sites and having my kayak and fishing gear ready to go," notes one regular visitor.
Equestrian activities: Travelers can observe professional training sessions at H. Cooper Black Jr. Field Trial Area, which specializes in sport hunting dog training. "If you have retriever dogs to train, they have several ponds that can be reserved. They host many retriever tests on the weekend and they are fun to watch," explains one camper.
Rally racing: The Carolina Sandhills region hosts competitive off-road events annually. "The first weekend in March most of the roads in the refuge are closed and is staged out for the Sandblast Rally. Tons of fun for a volunteer and a great excuse to be outdoors," shares an enthusiast about Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Campers appreciate the well-spaced areas at Cheraw State Park Campground which offers privacy even when the park is busy. "It felt very private even though there were people all around. The bathrooms and showers were amazingly clean and they had a giant heater you can turn on over the showers when it's cold outside," notes one reviewer.
Stargazing conditions: The rural location creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. A camper at Sugarloaf Mountain mentioned it's "Far away from city lights so great for stargazing," making it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain exceptional restrooms and shower buildings. At The Farm Campground near McBee, a motorcyclist passing through noted, "After you drive down a long sandy rutty road you come to the farm. A little oasis for the road weary. Mostly long term trailers are here but they do have tent camping. Nestled in the woods with sandy soil. Excellent rates. 25$ for the 5 of us and the best bathrooms ever!"
What you should know
Seasonal insects: Horse-oriented camping areas experience significant fly populations during warmer months. A camper at Lee State Park observed, "This park is an equestrian park so you will most likely encounter flies during the warmer months. Sites are better than some state parks we have visited."
Access limitations: Some campgrounds maintain restrictions on general camping. "Camping is not open to the general public at this wildlife preserve. However, for the purpose of environmental education programs and research activity, school groups and youth groups are welcome to visit the preserve for ranger led programs," explains a reviewer about Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge.
Weather considerations: Spring and fall provide the most comfortable camping conditions. Winter visitors to Cheraw State Park reported, "We were lucky enough to catch a great view of Jupiter merging with Saturn last night. Super cheap. We stayed four nights for under $100."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated children's recreation areas. One visitor to Florence RV Park noted the facility includes "an intimate little public pool behind the management office, WiFi hotspots, dog park, scattered picnic tables, kid's playground."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife observation creates learning experiences for children. A Cheraw State Park camper shared, "It is a nice campground, quiet and great for children! I will definitely go back!"
Shower facilities: Newly developed campgrounds provide amenities particularly suitable for families with children. A visitor to Standing Pines RV Resort & Campground mentioned, "The outdoor showers are Anything But Ordinary! I've had to tell my youngest son that he's had too many showers in a day!"
Tips for RVers
Site conditions: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Hartsville feature improved RV sites with level surfaces. At Lee State Park, a camper noted, "Was a nice experience. Quite and friendly neighbors. Sites were gravel and level. Bath house were clean and well maintained."
Hookup options: Most parks offer various connection types for different RV requirements. "30/50 hookups and water. No sewer but very close dump station in campground," reports a winter visitor to Cheraw State Park.
Pull-through availability: For larger rigs or travelers making overnight stops, some parks provide convenient access. A reviewer at Swamp Fox Campground shared that "the sites are very large" and another mentioned it's "Great for a pull through spot right off I-95 while traveling."
