Best Campgrounds near Union, SC

Campgrounds around Union, South Carolina range from primitive sites to full-service facilities, primarily concentrated in the Sumter National Forest area. Sedalia Campground, located directly in Union, offers tent, RV, and glamping options with primitive amenities. Within driving distance, campers can access Croft State Park in Spartanburg, Brick House Campground in the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests, and several private RV parks. The mixed-use campgrounds typically accommodate both tent and vehicle camping, with varying levels of hookups and amenities.

Access to camping areas varies seasonally, with weather conditions affecting site usability, particularly at primitive locations. Most established campgrounds like Croft State Park remain open year-round, while primitive camping areas may have seasonal limitations. Many campsites feature gravel surfaces which can present challenges for tent campers. Facilities range from fully-equipped state parks with electric and water hookups to basic forest service campgrounds with vault toilets and limited amenities. As one visitor noted about Sedalia Campground, "Nice, quiet campground. Has fire pit and access to running water. No picnic tables and has vaulted toilets. But very nice place to get away from stress of life."

Campground experiences in the region typically include opportunities for water recreation, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Croft State Park features lake access with fishing docks and boat rentals, plus extensive trail networks for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The primitive camping areas in Sumter National Forest provide a more secluded experience, though amenities are minimal. Several visitors mentioned the affordability of forest service campgrounds, with Sedalia's sites available for "$5 single or $10 group" according to user feedback. Hunters frequently use these forest service campgrounds, particularly during deer and turkey seasons when sites can become crowded. Many campgrounds in the region feature central grassy areas for activities, with both individual and group camping options available. Water access, when available, is consistently mentioned as a highlight in camper reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near Union, South Carolina (93)

    1. Croft State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    White Stone, SC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 585-1283

    "37 ft pull behind and we stayed at the upper campground (not the lakeside) close to the trail that takes you down to the creek for a swim."

    "Head back to the end of the camping loop away from the office and find a trail that leads down to a nice swimming creek. Great place for exploring all over the park."

    2. Brick House Campground (Sc) — Francis Marion And Sumter National Forests

    17 Reviews
    Kinards, SC
    20 miles

    $5 - $150 / night

    "Mostly away from everyone and was right next to a 9 mile loop hiking trail. Had a great stay in our roof top tent and will be back"

    "Quick last minute camping trip we didn’t want to drive hours away from home. This was fairly close and one of the few places to all booked up for the weekend."

    3. Sedalia Campground

    4 Reviews
    Cross Anchor, SC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 561-4000

    "Has fire pit and access to running water . No picnic tables and has vaulted toilets . But very nice place to get away from stress of life . Definitely will be back"

    "If you're a road cyclist this is heaven, and some decent trail riding down to the lakes. Just be aware that there are no picnic tables. Still it's cheap and close to where we live in Spartanburg."

    4. Pine Ridge Campground

    12 Reviews
    Pauline, SC
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 576-0302

    $40 - $55 / night

    "Was able to contact them for anything via text or walk into office when open. Beautiful restrooms kept clean and had a combination lock on them. Will definitely stay there again when in the area."

    "There is an acre of catch and release pond, a playground and jump pad for kids, a pool, some trails, several things to do."

    5. Iron City Campground, Inc.

    25 Reviews
    Blacksburg, SC
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 491-2874

    $40 - $45 / night

    "ICC is a nice place just over the NC border on I85 in SC. Very close to Charlotte and Greenville areas. Lots of southern pines provided shade."

    "Our site was very level and tucked back in the corner of the campground. If we are ever in the area again we would definitely stay here again."

    6. Chester State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Chester, SC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 385-2680

    "Tucked away just outside the historic cut of Chester, SC this park has a lot to offer, hiking trails, exploring, fishing, kayaking its great. It's our favorite little get away."

    "The lake from the campground has a fairly new access via a ADA compliant walkway with lighting leading to swings, benches and Adirondack chairs surrounding a rock fire pit."

    8. Kings Mountain — Kings Mountain State Park

    46 Reviews
    Kings Mountain, SC
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 222-3209

    $13 - $31 / night

    "When not in the side, a short walk takes you to the Trading Post, a small store selling firewood ($7), ice, souvenirs, and sundries. Next to that is a large playground connected to a pavilion."

    "There are lots of trails close to the campground with one around a lake and a stream off of it. Facilities were very well maintained."

    9. Newberry / I-26 / Sumter NF KOA

    6 Reviews
    Kinards, SC
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 697-1214

    "Supplies can be picked up roughly 15 to 30 minutes away from the campground."

    "Becci was able to move some things around so we could continue to camp here for a few days while our truck is being repaired.

    This park is owned by a few couples."

    10. Spacious Skies Peach Haven

    11 Reviews
    Gaffney, SC
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 489-2022

    $29 - $999 / night

    "Overall, this is a very nice, clean park conveniently located to the interstate I-85) and attractions in the area."

    "There are fun and funky places to visit nearby. The spring wildflowers are starting to bloom and I remember the scent of honeysuckle everywhere. A great blue heron hangs out at the fishing ponds."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 93 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Union, SC

472 Reviews of 93 Union Campgrounds


  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Brick House Campground (Sc) — Francis Marion And Sumter National Forests

    Nice for almost free camping

    We stayed here for three nights in space number 17. Surprisingly it was quite level. The whole time we were there there was only usually about three or four other campers in the 21 spaces. Beware of the giant pothole when turning off the 66 onto the Brickhouse Road. We hit it and it jarred the trailer so much it broke our back window. This is totally dry camping and there are two sets of vault toilets. Nearest town was Whitmire about 7 miles away. Minimal facilities. Clinton and Newberry are both about 15 miles away and they both have plenty of shopping facilities. Hikes in the forest noted several downed trees, most likely due to the hurricane that occurred last year. Some of the trails were impassable.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Eden in Lancaster SC

    4.5 STARS Peaceful area.

    This is a nice place to stay for a peaceful and quiet getaway. It’s a good place to relax. The owner is very nice and accommodating to your needs. You’re about 10 minutes away from the town of Lancaster, South Carolina.

  • madison F.
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Iron City Campground, Inc.

    great stop & stay

    nice campground. bathrooms and pool are CLEAN!!!! private bathrooms with showers. also has laundry ($) but has change for quarters in shop!! super big plus . also got a buddy site for the price of a normal one!

    not super crowded but still a nice community to be around :) 10 min drive into town as well. all sites have full hookups which was also super handy. not a bad price for what you get. only stayed two nights but would definitely stay again

  • Sarah B.
    Jul. 5, 2025

    Croft State Park Campground

    Outdoor adventure awaits

    37 ft pull behind and we stayed at the upper campground (not the lakeside) close to the trail that takes you down to the creek for a swim. Lots of hiking and biking to be done which is always a great time.

  • Kevan  R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 22, 2025

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Needs Maintenance!

    SC state parks must have shortage of $$ or employees. I know they upgraded to full hook up RV sites in the Fishermen camp recently, but maybe, a little thought could have gone into grading and leveling. SMH Also, it’s a Sunday and the grounds look like they haven’t been mowed in weeks. Camper across from us brought a lawn mower 🤷🏼‍♂️. See attached pics. Fire ring is 5’ from the camper. Positive - the lake view.

    2nd SC park this year - SC DNR, do better.

  • Chris K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 21, 2025

    Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort

    Superb Accommodations

    Always very clean, with meticulously maintained and picturesque grounds, the Camp Wilderness at Carowinds is well-appointed with amenities and attended to by helpful and friendly Carowinds staff. Providing shuttle service to the front gate for park entry, this is an excellent choice for overnight stays and Carowinds outings.

  • Jerry H.
    Jun. 17, 2025

    WyldStay Greenville

    Glamping on the farm - Highland Cows

    My wife and I stayed a couple weeks ago and had a blast.   We arrived and immediately met Pebbles (My wife's favorite of the Highland cows).  She was the sweetest cow and allowed us to pet, take pictures with her and of course feed her.   We also spent some time with the other cows and loved the experience as we interacted with them and all of the other animals, including the new sheep that recently arrived.   The camp site was way more then expected.   Large tents on a platform, with  everything you need to camp and enjoy the campgrounds and pastures.   Full bathroom onsite, great ponds to enjoy.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 15, 2025

    Paris Mountain State Park Campground

    Solid campground

    This is a beautiful park, with lots to do, and in close proximity to the endless supply of activities that can be found in the Greenville area.

    The campground was quiet and well shaded. Some of the sites needed a little rehab and weren’t very flat. The bathrooms were definitely older, but very clean.

    All in all, we enjoyed our stay and will probably stay here again!


Guide to Union

Camping near Union, South Carolina, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Dreher Island State Park Campground, provide excellent fishing opportunities. One camper mentioned, "We spent 90% of our time on the lake swimming, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and enjoying one of the best lakes we’ve ever experienced."
  • Hiking: Trails are abundant in the area. A visitor at Kings Mountain State Park noted, "Lovely shaded campground. Boat rentals at Lake York. National Military Battlefield nearby."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at South Mountains State Park Campground enjoyed the natural surroundings, with one saying, "The park is very pretty and the water is nice."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathhouses. A review for Croft State Park Campground stated, "The bathhouse was conveniently located, and it was air-conditioned."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of the park rangers. One camper at Kings Mountain State Park said, "The park rangers are all nice, respectful, and keep the place clean."
  • Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Dreher Island State Park Campground offer stunning lake views. A camper remarked, "Absolutely gorgeous sunrise, sunset, and when I was there the moon was full."

What you should know:

  • Site Size and Layout: Some campgrounds have smaller sites that can feel cramped. A visitor at Andrew Jackson State Park Campground mentioned, "Sites seem too closed to each other."
  • Weather Considerations: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A camper at Dreher Island State Park Campground noted, "If you are camping here with a tent, you’ll want to stake your abode down with as many lines as you quite possibly can."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have extensive amenities. A review for Kings Mountain State Park pointed out, "The electric and water are in odd spots on each site."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water activities. One camper at Iron City Campground said, "Fun for kids: pool with splash mushroom; playground."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A family at Cane Creek Park enjoyed the convenience of nearby stores, stating, "Target is super nearby for any other last-minute needs."
  • Safety First: Ensure the campground has good security. A camper at Cane Creek Park mentioned, "The campground is county-run, so the park ranger regularly patrols, making it feel safe."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Make sure to choose a level site for easier setup. A review for Croft State Park Campground noted, "Site #37 felt significantly sloped to me for our setup."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups. A camper at Iron City Campground appreciated, "Level lots, nice pool, enclosed dog lot, clean bathhouse."
  • Avoid Crowded Sites: Some RVers prefer more privacy. A visitor at Andrew Jackson State Park Campground said, "The campground is well cared for, but the sites are not plentiful or level."

Camping around Union, South Carolina, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I rent an RV in Union, South Carolina?

While Union itself has limited RV rental options, you can find rentals in surrounding areas. Consider checking rental services near Dreher Island State Park Campground, as it's a popular destination for RV campers with full hookup sites and lakeside camping. Some visitors report renting camper cabins directly at the park as an alternative to bringing your own RV. Newberry / I-26 / Sumter NF KOA may also have rental information, as KOA locations often partner with or know local RV rental companies.

What are the best campgrounds near Union, South Carolina?

Several excellent campgrounds are within driving distance of Union. Croft State Park Campground offers spacious sites for RVs up to 37 feet, extensive hiking and biking trails, and creek swimming access. Chester State Park Campground is another nearby option, particularly well-suited for RVs and travel trailers with decent facilities, though tent campers should note the rocky terrain at some sites. Both parks provide a peaceful outdoor experience within a reasonable drive from Union.

What camping sites in Union offer the best amenities for families?

Paris Mountain State Park Campground is ideal for families, featuring clean bathrooms with nice showers, level campsites, and scenic surroundings. The park offers free firewood with donation and has friendly staff. For a water-focused family adventure, Lake Greenwood State Park Campground provides spacious, well-separated campsites along the lakeshore. The lake accommodates various water activities from boating and jet skiing to kayaking and tubing, making it perfect for families looking to combine camping with water recreation.