Equestrian camping near Camden, South Carolina offers accessible trails and dedicated facilities within a 30-mile radius. The region typically experiences mild winters with average lows of 35°F and hot, humid summers reaching 90°F. Most horse-friendly campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable temperatures for both riders and horses.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At Cheraw State Park Campground, you can enjoy multiple scenic paths. "The trail around the lake is very pretty, and there are lots of things to do across the lake. (Boat rentals, playground, picnic areas, park office…)" notes Trina W.
Fishing and water activities: Many campgrounds offer lake access for fishing enthusiasts. "I really love setting up on the water sites and having my kayak and fishing gear ready to go," shares Oldhap about Cheraw State Park. The park provides rental equipment for those traveling without gear.
Dog training facilities: H. Cooper Black Jr. Memorial Field Trial and Recreation Area offers specialized areas for retriever training. "Neat surprise. Pleasant primitive site now, overlooking ponds, meadows, forest. Fun to distantly observe horses and well trained retrievers playing and being trained," says Phil R.
Disc golf courses: Chester State Park Campground features a championship-level course. Keith K. mentions, "Small clean campground... Very nice trail along the lake perimeter and Championship Disc golf course."
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campgrounds offer good spacing between sites. At Cane Creek Park, "It felt very private even though there were people all around," according to MaryAnn P., who appreciated the campground's layout.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "The bathhouse was air conditioned, almost too much. It is a shock to the system moving from the intense South Carolina heat into the bath house," shares Myron C. about Chester State Park.
Natural swimming areas: Several parks feature lake swimming opportunities. Sarah B. notes about Cane Creek Park, "The swim area is only open on Saturdays or you can drive to the day use side and be over there."
Wildlife viewing: The combination of ponds, meadows, and forests creates excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. At Cheraw State Park, John shares that it offers "Small, but really nice. A lot of sites right on the water. Lots of trees, really quiet."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings higher temperatures and more insects. Sara M. advises about winter camping: "Spacious sites that feel nicely private surrounded by evergreens which is a nice relief in winter to see trees with leaves."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. For Cheraw State Park, one camper mentioned, "We stayed four nights for under $100. 30/50 hookups and water. No sewer but very close dump station in campground."
Weather impacts: The region can experience storms that affect camping conditions. At Sesquicentennial State Park Campground, L O. notes, "Site 46 is not terribly even, but it's well situated inside the loop. The park is clean, the tent pad is a good size, and the amazing aroma of pine is one of the natural highlights."
Alcohol policies: Rules vary by campground. Some state parks prohibit alcohol. Cane Creek Park specifies "No alcohol permitted," according to Julie P.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Several parks have dedicated recreation areas for children. At Sesquicentennial State Park, Ruth J. shares, "I enjoy doing the trails and spotting dear. And there is a small water play area for children. They have paddle boats also."
Group camping options: Some parks offer specialized areas for larger groups. Trina W. recommends Cheraw State Park: "We stayed in the camp juniper group area this time, but have camped in the regular campground in the past."
Educational opportunities: Parks often provide nature programs and learning experiences. CeCelia L. had success with "a group of 8 wild middle schoolers" at Sesquicentennial, noting "we had a blast hiking the trails, boating, and unplugging for a while!"
Free amenities: Look for parks offering included activities. About Cane Creek Park, Sarah B. mentions, "The mini golf is free and a blast."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs and vehicle size. Christina shares about Lee State Park Campground: "Rough 'roads' inside park with big ruts that filled with rain, horrific mosquitos (and we're from SC for a baseline)."
Seasonal availability: Many RV campgrounds offer year-round access with varying amenities. Mitch M. found Lee State Park satisfactory: "Sites were gravel and level. Bath house were clean and well maintained."
Hookup considerations: Check what utilities are available at each site. For Falcons Nest FamCamp, Jeff B. notes, "Very nice campground. Lots of trees. Must have access to Shaw afb to stay. $20 per night. No long term prices. No stay limit."
Proximity to supplies: Note the distance to nearest stores for supplies. At Sesquicentennial, one camper mentioned, "Unfortunate that the camp store closes at 5 pm. So one must drive to Publix for firewood. The closest Walmart has $2 ice bags."
