Tent campsites near Cross Anchor, South Carolina are concentrated within the Sumter National Forest region where the terrain features rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 400-600 feet. The camping areas experience typical Piedmont weather patterns with humid summers reaching 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Most primitive sites require campers to bring their own water filtration equipment when creek sources are utilized during drier months.
What to do
Hiking access: The Sedalia Campground connects directly to the Palmetto Trail, providing extensive hiking opportunities through the Sumter National Forest. As one visitor notes, "If you want to get away from civilization, this might be the place to camp... The Palmetto Trail runs through it, so if you are thru-hiking, this would be a good place to camp for the night."
Cycling opportunities: Road cyclists particularly benefit from the network of low-traffic forest service roads near Sedalia Campground. According to one reviewer, "If you're a road cyclist this is heaven, and some decent trail riding down to the lakes."
Creek exploration: At Primitive Camping By the Creek, campers can wade and explore the adjacent waterway. A visitor mentioned, "The creek is right beside the camp. Nice and secluded. Firewood was provided."
What campers like
Tool access: Primitive Camping By the Creek offers practical camping tools for site maintenance. One camper noted, "The shed also has lots of tools such as an axe and rake. Also two trees near the entrance perfect size for a hammock."
Natural water sources: The well water available at Fell Hunt Camp receives praise for its quality. A reviewer stated, "The water in the spouts is well water and delicious. Would be a great spot for some group camping!"
Affordability: Simple pricing structures make these areas budget-friendly camping destinations. Sedalia Campground offers basic accommodations at minimal cost, with one camper mentioning, "Quite calm. Hunters use it alot. Fall deer hunters spring thurkey hunting. Often gets packed."
What you should know
Seasonal hunter presence: During hunting seasons, expect increased campground occupancy. A reviewer observed that at Sedalia, "Hunters use it alot. Fall deer hunters spring thurkey hunting. Often gets packed."
Facility limitations: Denver Downs Farm provides wide-open camping but minimal facilities. A camper explains, "This is a farm and outdoor event center with a 140 acre field you can camp in... There are no defined campsites we could see. Just a giant field to set up and camp. There is no water or any hookups. You will need to pack in and pack out everything."
Camp maintenance concerns: Some campgrounds require visitors to clean up after previous campers. At Sedalia Campground, one visitor reported, "I was at campsite 5, which was the one farthest from the road, and I could tell it was the most popular. I picked up a small bag of trash left by previous campers before setting up."
Tips for camping with families
Hammock camping options: Families with older children can utilize natural hammock setups at some locations. A camper at Primitive Camping By the Creek mentioned, "Also two trees near the entrance perfect size for a hammock."
Group gathering areas: Sedalia Campground provides designated community spaces. A visitor observed, "There is a spacious grassy area in the middle of the campsites for whatever activities you want to engage in. There is also a large, separate grassy area for group camping. It includes a communal fire pit."
Emergency supplies: Poulous Loop Seasonal Camp requires families to be entirely self-sufficient, as one camper noted the minimal facilities: "Nasty vault toilet, and trash cans but no water." The campground has changed significantly from previous years.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for small vehicles: While most areas cater to tent camping, some accommodate compact RVs. A visitor to Sedalia Campground mentioned, "Overall, it is a great area for primitive camping and for dry camping if you are in a small RV."
Limited hookups throughout region: RVers should prepare for dry camping conditions at all locations. One camper at Denver Downs Farm stated, "There is no water or any hookups. You will need to pack in and pack out everything."
Highway proximity: Some locations provide easy interstate access despite their rustic settings. A camper at Denver Downs noted, "Very close to I-85 and easy to get to. Feels very safe. A little highway noise, but not bad."
