Tent campers visiting the Camden, South Carolina area can access multiple primitive camping options within Congaree National Park and surrounding areas. The region sits at approximately 142 feet above sea level in the South Carolina Midlands, characterized by flat terrain with wetland forests and sandhills ecosystems. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-95°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop to near freezing.
What to do
Synchronous firefly viewing: During late May to early June, Longleaf Campground provides an ideal base for witnessing the rare synchronous firefly phenomenon. One camper noted, "The fireflies were very pretty and interesting. We saw other wildlife around the campground too. A lizard during a walk during the day. Many frogs during the rain at night." (Longleaf Campground)
Wildlife observation: Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge offers permitted camping for educational groups conducting environmental research. As one visitor explained, "This is a unique opportunity in a unique location! Hiking, fishing, and boating are also available, in addition to wildlife watching and nature study." (Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge)
Paddling opportunities: The waterways near tent camping areas provide excellent paddling routes. Though some visitors have faced challenges, with one noting, "This spot was one of many on a fall paddling vacation, but this stop didn't go as planned." Despite this, they added, "It's an incredible park with a lot to explore."
What campers like
Site spacing: Tent campers appreciate the layout at Longleaf Campground. A recent visitor commented, "After losing several nights of sleep at our previous campground, this one was a huge relief. Sites were spread out, but also the vibe was less 'party all night' and more 'sleep and then explore the park during the day.'" (Longleaf Campground)
Trail access: The proximity to hiking trails makes tent camping convenient for exploring the region. One camper shared, "Pristine, but organized trails near the Consgree river and Swamp. Lots of wildlife and ancient trees on the trails. Small campsite to include group camping. 40 miles from downtown Columbia SC." (Bluff Hike In Campground)
Helpful rangers: Park staff at Congaree National Park are noted for their responsiveness. A camper recounted, "We re-visted the VC and let the rangers know about our encounter. The next day we returned to the park to paddle and received a call from a law enforcement ranger saying they dealt with the other individual and apologized for our inconvenience."
What you should know
Walk-in requirements: Most tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. A camper at Longleaf explained, "Ten site campground, all walk in. Sites 1 and 2 fairly short distance to walk. Campsites are spacious and clean." Another suggested, "I stayed at the site closest to the parking lot. It's a quick walk. I only stayed one night so I didn't bring everything to the site, but if I did, it would be nice to have a second person or a wagon." (Blythewood Acres)
Flooding potential: Low-elevation tent sites can flood during heavy rains. One camper warned, "It's lowlands so it floods easily in heavy rains...learned this the hard way!" Another reported, "The first night got a lot of rain and storms and several of the campers from sites farther back left saying they were flooded out."
Insects: Bug protection is essential when tent camping near Camden. A camper advised, "Definitely bring a wagon for packing your stuff in and prepare to be eaten alive by deer flies everywhere you go!" Another simply stated, "This is a small campground. It's National Park so there are no amenities. Walk in sites. Lots of bugs so come prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Distance planning: Families should select sites based on how far children can carry gear. One camper suggested, "Sites 1-3 are the easiest to get to. We were at site 7, it took about 250 steps from the parking lot to our site." (Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge)
Educational programs: Youth groups can access special camping permissions at wildlife refuges. A visitor explained, "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 and can stay overnight at special rustic group campsites."
Noise considerations: Natural sounds can be surprisingly loud for children. One camper mentioned, "The campground is next to a pond that gets rather loud at night. I never knew frogs/toads could be so loud."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping near Camden lacks RV hookups, but a few exceptions exist. One RV camper noted, "Water, sewer, power and dump station on site! These sites are level and waiting for your RV." (Blythewood Acres)
Tent-only restrictions: Most campgrounds in Congaree National Park cater exclusively to tent camping with no RV access. Site designs, walk-in requirements, and limited facilities make most areas unsuitable for recreational vehicles.
