Lee State Park Campground features equestrian facilities located 7 miles southeast of Coward, South Carolina. The park sits on 2,839 acres of former farmland and is home to significant artesian wells that supply natural spring water year-round. Winter temperatures average 40-60°F, providing comfortable off-season camping conditions when seasonal fly populations are minimal.
What to do
Explore nearby trails: Visitors at Cheraw State Park can access a lake boardwalk that connects camping areas to recreational facilities. "There is a nice boardwalk that goes around a large portion of the lake that connects the campground with the beach area. You can rent kayaks and canoes to take out on the lake, and the fishing is excellent!" notes MaryAnn P.
Observe wildlife training: At H. Cooper Black, visitors can watch retriever training sessions at dedicated ponds. Phil R. describes it as a "neat surprise" where guests can "distantly observe horses and well trained retrievers playing and being trained."
Water activities: Lakes in the region offer multiple recreation options during warmer months. At Cheraw State Park, John P. mentions "a cute little beach area with kayak and canoe rentals" with the "day area open from 8am to sunset."
What campers like
Natural water features: The artesian wells at Lee State Park Campground are unique geological attractions. Eddie notes visitors should "check out the artesian wells and other nature spots," while Sara M. from Cheraw State Park appreciates that "the lake is beautiful" with "awesome walking trail that takes you to the other side."
Quiet atmosphere: Campgrounds in the region typically offer peaceful settings away from urban noise. Mitch M. describes Lee State Park as "nice and quite" with "friendly neighbors," while John from Cheraw calls it a "hidden gem" that's "really quiet" with "lots of trees."
Birding opportunities: The area supports diverse bird populations. At Cheraw State Park, Bran P. enthusiastically notes, "Bird sanctuary so birders will LOVE this campground! There is also a really nice museum type of visitor's center."
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: Horse-focused campgrounds have unique challenges. At H. Cooper Black Jr. Field Trial Area, Brenda L. mentions the campground is ideal for "horse and dog lovers" but doesn't address the insects, while at Lee State Park, Swain K. warns "if you have never stayed with horses you can not be prepared for the flyes. they were swarms of them."
Access requirements: Some facilities have restricted entry. Falcons Nest FamCamp requires military credentials as Jeff B. notes: "Must have access to Shaw afb to stay. $20 per night. No long term prices. No stay limit."
Off-season advantages: Winter camping offers fewer crowds and insects. Sara M. reports Cheraw State Park is an "off season gem" where "barely anyone here in December, so it feels so nice to be out of our house but not needing masks constantly."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Several parks offer designated play areas and recreational options. Chris S. describes Lee State Park as a "tranquil park with many trails and a pond for the kids to swim," while at Cheraw State Park Campground, Werner S. notes you can "walk 10 minutes to a beachy area on the other site of the lake."
Group camping options: Some parks provide specialized areas for larger family gatherings. Trina W. mentions Cheraw's "camp juniper group area" but cautions "the only drawback to the group area is that it's not directly on the lake, and there are no bathrooms."
Staff interactions: Park personnel often enhance visitor experiences. Lauren V. found that at Lee State Park, "hosts were super nice, even when we got in late," while Trina W. notes "the ranger is very friendly, and made the kids' visit even better!"
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: Most horse campgrounds near Coward, South Carolina provide level sites with hookups. At Brenda L. reports H. Cooper Black "campground has full hookups and they have made lots of improvements the last few years and most are level and shaded."
Weather considerations: Winter camping offers unique advantages for RVers. Sara M. appreciated Cheraw State Park's value, noting "we stayed four nights for under $100. 30/50 hookups and water. No sewer but very close dump station in campground."
Space requirements: Site dimensions vary between parks. Christina from Lee State Park mentions "rough roads inside park with big ruts that filled with rain" but appreciates the "great dog walking areas," while John at Cheraw State Park reports "small, but really nice. A lot of sites right on the water" with sufficient space for their "17ft travel trailer."
