Chester State Park and surrounding areas offer multiple options for glamping and cabin camping within an hour's drive of Chester, South Carolina. The region sits at approximately 500 feet elevation in the South Carolina Piedmont, characterized by gentle rolling hills and accessible woodland terrain. Sites provide various levels of amenities depending on the campground, with options ranging from primitive sites to cabins with full hookups.
What to Do
Championship disc golf: Chester State Park features a highly-rated disc golf course along the lake perimeter. "Very nice trail along the lake perimeter and Championship Disc golf course," notes Keith K. about Chester State Park Campground.
Paddling opportunities: McDowell Nature Preserve offers kayaking options close to Charlotte. "The lake is beautiful. There is a paved walkway down to the lake to a sitting area and a dock," explains Myron C. from McDowell Nature Preserve.
Historical exploration: Andrew Jackson State Park combines camping with historical sites. "The park is located approximately 20 miles from Rock Hill and 30 miles from Charlotte so there is plenty to see and do on the days you want to do some sightseeing," reports Laura A. at Andrew Jackson State Park Campground.
What Campers Like
Peaceful lake settings: Most campsites in the region offer water views or easy lake access. "Small comfortable campground in a beautiful State Park. The lake is breathtaking. There are tournaments through out the year, as well as boating, kayaking, & fishing," shares Chris W. about Chester State Park.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and common areas. "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," mentions Myron C. describing McDowell Nature Preserve.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. "My favorite part of this camping experience was waking up early in the morning and sitting by the lake. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to capture a photo of the ducks taking off and flying in a perfect v-formation, but it was so peaceful there," says Myron C. about Chester State Park.
What You Should Know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have variable terrain with some sites being more suitable than others. "I gave this campground four stars, but only for RVs and travel trailers. I would not give it four stars for tent campers. Tent campers would have a hard time finding a suitable site that would not be too rocky," warns Myron C. about Chester State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat can be intense in South Carolina. "It is a shock to the system moving from the intense South Carolina heat into the bath house," notes Myron C. about Chester facilities.
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites require advance booking, especially for luxury camping options. "This is a nice campground. For the most part quiet. Nice place to walk, tour, visit," says Karen R. about Andrew Jackson State Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for recreation options: Select campgrounds with built-in activities for children. "Little park, but very quiet and relaxing!" notes Kristin F. about Andrew Jackson State Park.
Consider water activities: Lakes provide natural entertainment for children. "Boat rentals, peddle boats, canoes, and kayaks" are available at many parks, according to Myron C.
Check for playgrounds: Some campgrounds include playground facilities. "The campground is nice to roam with a wonderful playground. Events are held at an amphitheater by the day use area," shares Nate G. about Cane Creek Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra equipment for leveling. "Our site was very steep, so took a lot to get level, but it was ok," mentions Rachel R. about Andrew Jackson State Park.
Space constraints: Several campgrounds have limited room for larger RVs. "It is a great campground but tight fit for our 30 foot camper," notes Julie P.
Hookup variations: Electric and water hookups are standard at most sites, but sewer connections vary. "Campsite rates are very reasonable and all sites have electric and water and 3 sites also have sewer!" explains Laura A. from Andrew Jackson State Park.
