Tent camping near Cheraw, South Carolina ranges from primitive campsites requiring self-sufficiency to more developed areas with basic amenities. Most sites sit within the region's characteristic sandhill ecosystem, featuring sandy soil, longleaf pines, and elevations between 200-500 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Deep Water Trail Camp, campers can access the Yadkin River for fishing. One visitor reported "great fishing" and mentioned "one enormous female catfish we released because she had eggs on board."
River activities: The Lumber River provides water recreation at Chalk Banks. A camper noted it has an "ideal" river access "to kayak and fish" with "a nice boat ramp for the kayaks."
Hiking trails: Multiple trails surround tent camping areas. One reviewer at Deep Water Trail Camp mentioned "lots of trails near by for hiking/finding fire wood" and another highlighted the area as having "plenty of good trails to check out."
Wildlife observation: The sandhill habitat supports diverse wildlife. At Sandhills Campground B, campers report seeing deer, birds, and other wildlife in the natural forest setting.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of sites. One Chalk Banks visitor noted, "The sites have great privacy and the campsite was virtually empty except for us and one other family."
Natural surroundings: Sandhills Campground B provides a true wilderness experience. A camper described it as "primitive" and mentioned "plenty of good lakes for fishing, and a bunch of trails to check out."
Spacious camping areas: Tent sites around Cheraw typically offer ample space. One camper at Deep Water Trail Camp said there are "some open areas to camp before you get to the water" and "a large open area that can hold multiple vehicles."
Quiet atmosphere: The remote nature of many sites ensures peace and quiet. A visitor to Chalk Banks explained, "Probably the biggest spots to camp I've ever seen gives you the feel of basically being way off the beaten path."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires appropriate vehicles. At Deep Water Trail Horse Camp, one camper warned of "rough road in" while another advised "I would highly recommend 4WD if you're going all the way to the water sites."
Facilities availability: Most tent sites offer minimal amenities. At Chalk Banks, a camper explained, "This is a no frills campground, and we knew that going in. There is one vault toilet and one water source."
Seasonal considerations: The best tent camping near Cheraw occurs in spring and fall. Summer brings heat, humidity, and mosquitoes, prompting one camper to advise visitors to "bring mosquito repellent."
Self-sufficiency requirements: For primitive sites, come prepared. A Sandhills Campground B reviewer emphasized, "No bathrooms, no water spigots, no camp store, nothing like that. Bring all your own EVERYTHING."
Tips for camping with families
Security features: Chalk Banks offers good security measures. One visitor noted, "The ranger gave us the gate code in case we needed to leave after they closed the gate at 9:00pm" while another mentioned sites are "primitive but well cared for nice security features."
Pet-friendly areas: Many sites welcome four-legged family members. A camper at Deep Water Trail Camp shared, "We brought our two pups & they had a blast playing & laying in the water!"
Educational opportunities: For groups with children, Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge offers special programming. While general camping isn't permitted, educational groups can arrange overnight stays.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies by location. A Deep Water Trail Camp visitor reported "Cell service is about 1 bar for Verizon and ATT," which families should consider when planning for emergencies or stay communication.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive sites near Cheraw can't accommodate large RVs. A camper at Lake Tillery Family Campground suggested this alternative for those needing more RV-friendly amenities than the primitive sites provide.
Ground clearance requirements: For tent camping with vehicles, appropriate clearance matters. A Deep Water Trail Camp visitor warned, "PLEASE take something with a little ground clearance and better than 2 wheel drive to get here. My Honda Element was on two wheels at one point."
Preparation essentials: When RVing to tent sites, bring everything needed. At Chalk Banks, a camper advised, "There is no general store nearby so bring wood and supplies in with you."
Gate timing awareness: Several campgrounds have security gates with specific hours. One Chalk Banks visitor cautioned, "When the website says the park closes at 'posted times', they mean 9pm. We know this because we got there at 9:05 and the gate was locked tight."
