Best Tent Camping near Columbia, SC
Congaree National Park, located 30 minutes southeast of Columbia, South Carolina, offers two dedicated tent-only campgrounds for primitive tent camping experiences. Longleaf Campground features 10 walk-in tent sites with varying distances from the parking area, while Bluff Campground provides 6 more secluded tent campsites accessible via a one-mile hike. Both campgrounds cater exclusively to tent campers seeking a natural experience within the old-growth forest ecosystem. Backcountry tent camping is also available with a free permit obtained from the visitor center. The park's location approximately 40 miles from downtown Columbia makes it accessible for weekend tent camping trips while providing a complete immersion in nature.
Tent sites at both campgrounds require preparation and self-sufficiency. No potable water exists at either campground, with the nearest water source located at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. Campers should bring all necessary water or be prepared to make trips to the visitor center. Sites include fire rings and picnic tables, but minimal other amenities. The terrain features numerous tree roots that can make tent setup challenging, particularly for larger tents. Vault toilets are available at the Longleaf parking area, but Bluff Campground has no facilities. The lowland location means sites can flood during heavy rains, with campers reporting occasional site drainage issues.
Spring and fall offer optimal tent camping conditions with fewer insects and moderate temperatures. One camper noted that "in the spring, the bugs were practically non-existent," making it possible to enjoy nighttime stargazing. The synchronous fireflies in May attract many tent campers, with visitors describing this natural phenomenon as worth enduring the more challenging summer conditions. According to reviews, sites 2, 8, and 10 at Longleaf provide the most privacy, while site 1 offers the easiest access from the parking area. The campgrounds provide excellent access to the park's boardwalk and trail system. Campers frequently mention the abundant wildlife, including frogs, lizards, birds, and insects that create what one visitor described as "a symphony of sounds" throughout the night.