Campsites near Conestee, South Carolina offer diverse accommodations ranging from primitive tent camping to full-service RV sites at elevations between 750-1100 feet. The surrounding foothills feature a mix of hardwood forests and lake environments with average summer temperatures reaching into the 90s. Most campgrounds operate year-round, though water activities peak from May through September when lake temperatures remain comfortable for swimming.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Table Rock State Park Campground features several waterfall-accessible trails with varying difficulty levels. A camper noted, "There are many waterfalls in the area and many places to hike. If you like to hike there are two strenuous hikes in the park from 4-8 miles long and steep climbs that offer breathtaking views."
Fishing opportunities: South Cove County Park offers direct lake access for anglers with most sites positioned on the water. "Great campground with great hosts and great fishing. Beautiful lake with crystal clear water. Easy access," explains one visitor. The park features boat ramps for larger craft and shoreline access from multiple campsites.
Water recreation: Keowee-Toxaway State Park provides opportunities for kayaking and canoeing with paddle-in primitive camping options. "We kayaked in our inflatables a short way across the lake to our primitive camping site which included nearby firewood that we could collect and use in a provided firepit area and used the large tree trunks as seating," shares a camper who enjoyed the $12/night primitive sites.
What campers like
Lake views: Tugaloo State Park Campground features waterfront sites with beach access directly from campsites. "Water water everywhere. On the Georgia side Tugaloo State Park is Located on Lake Hartwell on the Georgia/South Carolina state line," shares one reviewer. The campground offers over 100 sites, with most providing direct lake views.
Clean facilities: Pine Ridge Campground maintains exceptional cleanliness standards with modern bathhouses. "The bathhouse is beautifully kept and clean. We are 5 weeks into full time and it's been a little rough. The owners here took us under their wings and helped whenever needed. Very clean restrooms and laundry room," explains one full-time camper.
Private campsites: Springfield-Hartwell Lake features well-spaced sites with tree coverage providing privacy between neighbors. "We stayed at one of the small loops, waterfront right at a small cove. Very nice side, some shade but decent water access. No problem to Launch the canoe and the sup. Large side with water and electricity hook up," reports one visitor who appreciated the thoughtful layout.
What you should know
Gate restrictions: South Cove County Park enforces a 10 PM gate closure policy. "The campground has a gate that gets locked at 10 pm. You can leave but you can't come back into the campground after the gate gets locked," advises a camper. Plan evening activities accordingly or expect to be locked out until morning.
Hard terrain for tent campers: Several campgrounds have compact gravel sites challenging for tent stakes. At South Cove, one camper warned, "Great for RV camping. But for tent camping, be careful on the places you take. The RV sites, ground is too hard to put pulls in it."
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. Travelers Rest-North Greenville KOA provides reliable service, with a camper reporting, "Cell coverage was great (att & Verizon), so we had no issues working our 9-5s." However, some sites at Oconee State Park have minimal to no reception.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Pine Ridge Campground offers multiple play areas for children. "Our family had a great time! Lots of stuff for the kids to do! Bath house clean and laundry facility great!" reports a family camper. The campground features a playground, jump pad, and swimming pool specifically designed for families with younger children.
Swimming access: Table Rock State Park Campground provides designated swimming areas with beach access. "I live roughly 10 minutes from Table Rock and go there all the time especially during the summer. The Table Rock trail is a must if you are nearby!" shares a local visitor who frequents the swimming areas during warm months.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Tugaloo State Park, evening wildlife activity increases after sunset, with one camper noting, "You can see fishing boats zoom to their fishing location at night. Peaceful and calming rest from the corporate life!"
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds require careful positioning for larger rigs. At Table Rock, a camper advised, "Campsites are often uneven with a lot of tree roots running throughout. It does require consideration before parking your trailer or RV."
Power reliability concerns: Keowee-Toxaway State Park has experienced electrical issues. One RVer warned, "Twice in one week this campground experienced a complete and total power outage each of which lasted for hours." Consider backup power sources when staying at this location.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Travelers Rest-North Greenville KOA provides full hookups but has space limitations. "Full connections and no issues leveling. Easy in/out and close to Greenville, Paris Mountain, Travelers Rest, Swamp Rabbit Trail etc.," notes one RVer who appreciated the convenient location despite the campground's compact size.
