Camping options near White Stone, South Carolina provide primitive to full-service sites within short driving distances. The Piedmont region terrain features rolling hills with elevations between 600-800 feet, creating varied camping experiences from lakeside spots to wooded retreats. Winter temperatures typically remain above freezing, allowing year-round camping with fewer crowds during December through February.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Croft State Park has extensive equestrian facilities appealing to riders of all levels. "Perfect for equestrian as most of the trails are horse friendly and there is a large arena free to use. The barn is clean as well and provides stall shavings for a small fee," notes Maddi P. The park maintains over 20 miles of marked horse trails through varied terrain.
Swimming in natural settings: During summer months, several campgrounds offer water access beyond traditional pools. At Croft State Park Campground, campers can find relief from heat at the creek. "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," shares Sarah B. The water remains cool even during July and August.
Military history exploration: Kings Mountain — Kings Mountain State Park connects to significant Revolutionary War sites. "Tons to do, including hikes and history. Make sure to go across the street to the Kings Mountain Military site. Better yet, plan your stay when they are doing an event," recommends Don H. The battlefield hosts reenactments several times annually, typically announced 2-3 months in advance.
What campers like
Clean bathhouse facilities: Campers consistently praise well-maintained bathroom facilities at several campgrounds. At Pine Ridge Campground, "The bath houses and park are always really clean," according to Joni H. Another camper noted, "Beautiful restrooms kept clean and had a combination lock on them," highlighting security features at some facilities.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple small lakes and ponds offer fishing throughout the area. At Croft State Park, "We enjoyed our stay... Nice hiking around lake, fishing, and boat rental. Saw some turtles while paddling, and there were frogs and lots of fireflies near our campsite," shares Sarah G. Most fishing areas require South Carolina fishing licenses, available online or at local sporting goods stores.
Winter camping quiet: Off-season camping provides solitude unavailable during busier months. "Our first camping, and in December, no less. Few campers, but spacious sites. I collect local fallen tree limbs to burn. Lots of them around! Great hiking trails," notes Patrick L. about Croft State Park Campground. Winter rates at most parks drop by 15-30% compared to peak season.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Many campgrounds feature uneven sites that can challenge setup. At Paris Mountain State Park Campground, "Liked the campground. No amenities per day except bathroom/showers. Nice large sites but very unlevel due to mountain side. Would not stay again because we were so unlevel our refrigerator wouldn't work," reports Cindy R. Bringing leveling blocks is essential for most area campgrounds.
Access roads can be narrow: Several parks have challenging entry roads. About Paris Mountain State Park, one camper explained, "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! We have a 31' Class A and we managed fine, but I did hear some people with larger trailers having a harder time."
Limited primitive options: True primitive camping is scarce near White Stone. Sedalia Campground offers basic sites at low cost. "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," writes Susan B. Sites cost $5 for individuals or $10 for groups.
Tips for camping with families
Jump pads and playgrounds: Several private campgrounds offer kid-specific amenities. Pine Ridge Campground provides extensive play areas. "Our family had a great time! Lots of stuff for the kids to do! Bath house clean and laundry facility great!" shares Erica C. The campground's jump pad and playground remain open year-round.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can observe local wildlife at dawn and dusk. According to Sarah G. at Spacious Skies Peach Haven, "A great blue heron hangs out at the fishing ponds." Morning wildlife walks between 7-9 AM typically yield the most sightings.
Weekend activity planning: Some campgrounds schedule regular weekend events. "The host does a great job lining up activities including Kona Ice for the campers on Saturday's," notes James U. about Iron City Campground. Activities generally run Memorial Day through Labor Day, with reduced schedules in shoulder seasons.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Larger rigs require careful site selection at most area campgrounds. At Spacious Skies Peach Haven, "Stayed there two days in the new section. I can't speak on other parts of the park but the new section has what looks like 90 foot sites. Motorhome fit on cement pad that had asphalt ramps," shares James R.
Full hookup availability: While many campgrounds offer partial hookups, several provide full service sites. "We stayed in Site #102. All sites are full hook-up, some being 30-amp and others 50. Most sites are pull-thrus and level," notes one camper about a local RV park. Reservations for full hookup sites typically require booking 2-3 weeks in advance during peak season.
Road navigation challenges: RVers should prepare for steep, sometimes rutted campground roads. Regarding Foothills Family Campground, one camper explained, "The roads in the campground are dirt, rutted, and steep. I am glad we unhooked our Jeep before navigating our RV to the site. The RV rocked and rolled quite a bit. The site was level, clean with full hook-ups."
