Best Campgrounds in South Carolina

With four distinct geographical environments, South Carolina offers a wide variety of terrain, natural history, and climate in one relatively small state. With the option to drive from the mountains to the Atlantic coast in a few hours, camping in South Carolina is a great choice for those who want variety without a ton of travel time.

The state’s far northwest corner is home to mountains that rise above the foothills, appearing blue against the horizon. The Blue Ridge, arguably the most famous stretch of the Appalachians, provide a welcome respite from the hot South Carolina summers. In autumn, The Blue Ridge Mountains draw visitors from around the country to take in the breathtaking fall displays of color across the mountainsides. And no matter what season, camping in South Carolina would not be complete without a trip to iconic Table Rock or Sassafras Mountain – the highest point in the SC Blue Ridge Mountains.

A few hours south of the Blue Ridge, campers can set sail on Lake Murray, enjoy world-renowned fishing, or enjoy beach-front camping at Dreher Island State Park. The lake, a reservoir for the entire midlands area of the state, covers roughly 50000 acres and has 500 miles of shoreline. Lake Murray, which is a prime spot for fishing, has hosted 3 national fishing tournaments in the last 15 years and is home to several species of bass, crappie, bream, and other sport fishing favorites.

The stunning South Carolina coast is less than 3 hours from state capitol, Columbia, and boasts more than 200 miles of Atlantic coastline beauty. With more campgrounds up and down the coast than you can shake a stick at, trust The Dyrt to help you find the best camping in South Carolina!

Best Camping Sites in South Carolina (348)

    1. Myrtle Beach State Park Campground

    93 Reviews
    367 Photos
    564 Saves
    Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

    The main campground provides individual water and electrical hookups. The overflow campground is for tents only, does not provide electricity and has central water.

    Many sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, others up to 30 feet. There are also plenty of sites to accommodate smaller units including tents. All sites are convenient to hot showers, restrooms and laundromat facilities. All sites have complimentary wi-fi access. The campground is located approximately 300 yards from the beach.

    The Ranger Station (store/registration located at the campground entrance) includes limited grocery items, camping supplies, souvenirs, drinks, snacks, and firewood. Store hours: April - Sept. 8am-9:30pm; March, Oct. and Nov. 8am-8pm; Dec.-Feb. limited hours.

    Complimentary wi-fi is now available throughout the campground. For more information and access code, please check at the ranger station or park office.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $35 - $75 / night

    2. Huntington Beach State Park Campground

    73 Reviews
    187 Photos
    255 Saves
    Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

    Camping Information: Each site, excluding the designated tent sites, has water and electrical hookups and is convenient to hot showers and restrooms. Some sites have sewer hookups. All sites have complimentary wi-fi access. Several sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, others up to 30 feet.

    While tent campers may use the sites with water and electricity, the park also offers a designated walk-in tent site area which includes tent pads and central water.

    Discounted rates may be available for seasons of lower demand.

    Huntington Beach State Park is a popular destination for beautiful beaches and diverse wildlife. The park features three miles of pristine coastline, with soft sand dunes and clear blue waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing and fishing. The area is also home to alligators, loggerhead turtles and a wide range of bird species. Huntington Beach State Park is known for an abundance of hiking and biking trails, as well as kayaking, paddleboarding and bird watching. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the park's historic sites or attend one of the park's many educational programs, including nature walks and astronomy talks.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $95 / night

    3. Edisto Beach State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    267 Photos
    720 Saves
    Edisto Island, South Carolina

    For overnight accommodations, furnished cabins sit nestled in the woods for rent, as well as campsites which can be found along the Edisto Island oceanfront or in the shaded maritime forest. Wifi is also available in select areas, as well as bathrooms, showers, and electrical hookups in most campsites. In fact, 120 sites can accommodate RVs or tents, with 115 sites offering 50 amp electrical service.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    4. Mistletoe State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    323 Photos
    243 Saves
    Appling, Georgia

    This recreation area is part of J. Strom Thurmond Lake

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    5. Hunting Island State Park Campground

    64 Reviews
    365 Photos
    846 Saves
    Edisto Island, South Carolina

    While tent campers may use standard campsites, a designated walk-in tent camping area is available that includes tent pads, fire rings, picnic tables, no power and centralized water. A vehicle parking lot is also provided. All walk-in tent sites are a short walk away from the designated parking lot and a short walk away from the ocean. Each campground is convenient to restrooms with hot showers.

    Camping Information: Two campgrounds are located at the northern end of the park near the ocean. One of the campgrounds provides individual water and electrical hookups. Some sites accommodate RVs up to 40 ft.; others up to 28 ft. Camping Reservations:

    Hunting Island is South Carolina’s single most popular state park, attracting more than a million visitors a year, as well as a vast array of land and marine wildlife. Five miles of pristine South Carolina beaches, thousands of acres of marsh and maritime forest, a saltwater lagoon and ocean inlet are all part of the park’s natural allure.

    Hunting Island is home to the historic Hunting Island lighthouse, built in 1859 and rebuilt in 1875 after it was destroyed during the Civil War. A unique feature of the lighthouse is that it was constructed of interchangeable cast-iron sections so it could be dismantled should it ever need to be moved. Severe beach erosion made it necessary to relocate the lighthouse 1.3 miles inland in 1889.

    Hunting Island State Park camping is available at 100 campsites with water and electrical hookups, shower and restroom facilities, beach walkways and a playground. Hunting Island State Park camping reservations must be made for a minimum of two nights.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    6. Campground at James Island County Park

    57 Reviews
    84 Photos
    572 Saves
    Folly Beach, South Carolina

    Enjoy the natural beauty of James Island County Park, with year-round fun for the entire family. Just a short drive from downtown Charleston, the 643-acre park offers an abundance of exceptional recreation offerings and natural beauty.

    With the Campground and Cottages at James Island County Park, it has never been more convenient to explore historic Charleston and the Lowcountry. Come discover our history, charm, fine dining, antiques, plantations, parks, and sandy beaches. Just minutes from all of these attractions is your private retreat within the 643-acre James Island County Park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $70 / night

    7. Table Rock State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    254 Photos
    447 Saves
    Sunset, South Carolina

    Table Rock State Park is known for being a perfect glimpse into the scenic bliss that South Carolina's Highway 11 is known for. Most prominent to the park is the towering mountain Table Rock, where the park earns its name. This also serves as a backdrop for the 3,000 acre park, and its numerous camping facilities. Below this section of the Blue Ridge Mountains, visitors can enjoy Table Rock State Park's cabins and campground, as well as lakes and various hiking trails located within.

    The Table Rock State Park hiking trails weave through mountain streams, babbling brooks, and rushing waterfalls to the tops of Pinnacle and Table Rock mountains. The views here showcase the entirety of the region, and shouldn’t be skipped if you’re planning on visiting. That said, while the park is well known for its natural features, Table Rock also has its place in history.

    For example, the park’s hiking trails host the access point for the 80-mile Foothills Trail, one of the most famous in the Midwest. Hikers often use this trail to travel through the extensive network of SC state parks. These trails date all the way back to the Pioneers who would use them as trade routes and for homesteading. In fact, many of the Table Rock State Park cabins and other structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps remain standing and are on the National Register of Historic Places.

    This park is unique in that it is one of only 16 South Carolina state parks built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Moreover, there is even a historic CCC-built Lodge available for weddings, receptions, meetings and other special occasions. Additionally, the park features 2 park lakes: the 36-acre Pinnacle Lake and the 67-acre Lake Oolenoy.

    94 standard campsites for tent or RV camping, plus 14 renovated cabins provide ample accommodation to visitors. Aside from the larger lakes, there is also an old-fashioned swimming hole complete with a high-dive that is open during the summer season. Take your family out and use one of the 4 picnic shelters available to rent for group gatherings, for a day of fun, music, and recreation. And for those wanting an event to check out, the Music on the Mountain bluegrass jam takes place each month at the Table Rock Lodge–perfect for anyone wanting to escape the outdoors for a minute.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    8. Ocean Lakes Family Campground

    53 Reviews
    122 Photos
    307 Saves
    Jamestown, South Carolina

    Large campground with 859 sites. Looking for the perfect family vacation? Look no further than Ocean Lakes Family Campground in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. With nearly a mile of oceanfront property, our 310-acres offers the most diverse accommodations on the Grand Strand! Book one of our 859 pull-thru campsites, if RVs and tents are not your style, you can reserve or own a beach house from Ocean Lakes Properties! There is something for everyone at Ocean Lakes.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    9. Devils Fork State Park Campground

    51 Reviews
    284 Photos
    774 Saves
    Tamassee, South Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    10. Pirateland Family Camping Resort

    53 Reviews
    133 Photos
    186 Saves
    Jamestown, South Carolina

    PirateLand Campground will provide you with a camping experience to treasure for years to come! We are conveniently located along the oceanfront just outside of the Myrtle Beach city limit and we offer lodging options for every family vacationer - Full hook up RV campsites, shaded campsites great for tents, fully furnished vacation rentals, and yearly leased sites! All with easy access to 1/2 mile of beachfront along the Atlantic ocean.

    Our summer recreation program and on site amenities offer something for everyone. The on site water park, Pirate's Oasis, includes a lazy river, Olympic size pool, and the NEW 5,000 square-foot Pirate Ship Splash Pool! Fall through spring we're a great destination for snow-birds and we offer huge savings with monthly and extended stay rates!

    All of campsites have full-hook ups with water, sewer, electric (30&50 amp) and picnic table.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Recent Reviews in South Carolina

2353 Reviews of 348 South Carolina Campgrounds



Guide to South Carolina

Camping in South Carolina offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in this charming state.

What to do

  • Explore the lakes: Many campgrounds, like Dreher Island State Park Campground, are right by the water. Campers love the chance to kayak and fish. One reviewer said, “We spent 90% of our time on the lake swimming, paddle-boarding, and kayaking.”
  • Hiking and biking: Trails are abundant, especially at places like Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park. A visitor noted, “There are a couple of hiking trails and a short nature trail, both accessible from the Islanders Camp Circle.”
  • Wildlife watching: Campers often spot various birds and other wildlife. One camper at Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park mentioned, “Great day adventure... the nature facility provides knowledge of the area and the wildlife.”

What campers like

  • Scenic views: Campgrounds like Lake Wateree State Park Campground offer stunning waterfront sites. A happy camper shared, “Site #1 on the lake. Level paved driveway lots of shade. Great campground.”
  • Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Poinsett State Park Campground said, “The toilets were CLEAN! And I mean we were there for 24 hours and the bathroom was cleaned at least twice.”
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention helpful rangers and hosts. A visitor at Colleton State Park Campground noted, “The rangers are very helpful and the camp host was terrific.”

What you should know

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Brick House Campground, have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, “There is no running water. The closest water is 5 or 6 miles in either direction, so pack plenty.”
  • Seasonal crowds: Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. One camper at Santee Lakes KOA said, “Very crowded and was a one-night stop for many RVs!!”
  • Weather considerations: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. A camper at Dreher Island State Park Campground shared, “There was a big storm for about an hour after we set up camp, but the site drained well.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids, like playgrounds. One reviewer at Sesquicentennial State Park Campground mentioned, “Has a splash pad and kayak rentals.”
  • Plan activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. A camper at Cypress View Campground noted, “The campground has hiking/biking trails. Lake views from our site.”
  • Pack snacks: Having food on hand can make family camping easier. One camper at Lake Wateree State Park Campground said, “Not much near the site for supplies so bring your supplies if possible.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A visitor at Andrew Jackson State Park Campground mentioned, “Sites are paved, but don’t expect completely level.”
  • Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Colleton State Park Campground offer full hookups, which many RVers appreciate. A camper said, “Every site is full hookup.”
  • Be mindful of road conditions: Some campgrounds have rough roads. A reviewer at Poinsett State Park Campground noted, “Roads were really heavy with potholes, so not the friendliest for RVs.”

Camping in South Carolina is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful scenery!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available in South Carolina?

    According to TheDyrt.com, South Carolina offers a wide range of camping options, with 348 campgrounds and RV parks in South Carolina and 15 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground in South Carolina?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in South Carolina is Myrtle Beach State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 93 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping in South Carolina?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots in South Carolina.

  • What are the best parks in South Carolina?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 465 parks in South Carolina that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.