Camping options around Darlington, South Carolina cluster along the I-95 corridor and eastern Pee Dee region, an area characterized by sandy soil, pine forests, and proximity to several river systems. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, while winters remain mild with occasional freezing temperatures. Most campgrounds in this region operate year-round due to the moderate climate with peak visitor seasons during NASCAR race events and spring months.
What to do
Fishing access at Lynches River: Lynches River County Park offers direct river access for fishing enthusiasts. "Great place for kayaking, nature trails and nature center. Play ground area and lots of picnic tables," reports Adriane P. The park features a dedicated kayak loading dock and environmental learning center.
Dog training facilities: H. Cooper Black Jr. Field Trial Area provides specialized ponds for retriever training. "They have several ponds that can be reserved if you have retriever dogs to train. They host many retriever tests on the weekend and they are fun to watch," notes Brenda L. The facility caters specifically to sporting dog owners.
Horseback riding trails: Lee State Park maintains dedicated equestrian trails and stabling facilities. The park combines camping with horseback riding opportunities in a wooded setting. Visitors frequently mention the unique experience of camping near horses, with one camper noting, "Was wonderful to wake up and see the horses. Also dog friendly which is a plus."
What campers like
Clean, accessible bathhouses: Cheraw State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its well-maintained facilities. "The bathrooms and showers were amazingly clean and they had a giant heater you can turn on over the showers when it's cold outside!" reports MaryAnn P. The park maintains modern shower facilities even in the off-season.
Shaded, private sites: Standing Pines RV Resort & Campground offers newly developed sites with ample space between campers. "The outdoor showers are Anything But Ordinary! I've had to tell my youngest son that he's had too many showers in a day!" shares Ashley D. Though relatively new, the campground provides good tree coverage.
Proximity to natural areas: Most campgrounds in the region provide direct access to trails and water features. One camper at Cheraw State Park notes, "Nice boardwalk and nature trails nearby, with rental gear available." The interconnected trail systems allow campers to explore directly from their sites without driving to separate trailheads.
What you should know
Weather considerations: During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. One camper at Lee State Park warns, "If you have never stayed with horses you can not be prepared for the flyes. they were swarms of them." Bug spray is essential from April through October.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate year-round, but amenities may be limited in winter. A camper at Cheraw State Park notes, "When it isn't off season they have cheap boat rentals. Firewood is $6.50 per bundle." Winter campers benefit from fewer crowds and lower rates.
Road conditions: Several campgrounds feature unpaved access roads that can become difficult after rain. At The Farm Campground, one visitor observed, "After you drive down a long sandy rutty road you come to the farm. A little oasis for the road weary." Four-wheel drive vehicles may be necessary during wet periods.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with play areas: Florence RV Park offers family-friendly amenities including "an intimate little public pool behind the management office, WiFi hotspots, dog park, scattered picnic tables (in pretty good condition), kid's playground," according to Stuart K.
Consider noise levels: Campgrounds near I-95 experience constant traffic noise. Stuart K. continues about Florence RV Park, "This spot is so close to I95 (look for exit 169) that you'll both feel and hear the swoosh of passing by traffic 24/7." Sites farther from major highways provide quieter environments for families.
Pet-friendly options with space: Country Lane offers fully enclosed camping perfect for families with pets. The owner states, "We are fenced in on all sides and surrounded by woods! There is a public landfill 1/2 mile away and there is a Dollar General 1/2 mile away!" This setup allows children and pets to roam more freely within safe boundaries.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before booking: Many campgrounds feature sites with varying degrees of levelness. At Lee State Park, one RVer noted, "Sites were gravel and level. Bath house were clean and well maintained." Request information about site grading when making reservations.
Consider seasonal drainage: Some campgrounds experience drainage issues during rainy periods. One RVer at Swamp Fox Campground reported, "Stopped here last year on the way back north from Florida. It was raining and our spot was a mud bog. Drainage was terrible in the park with many spots underwater."
Plan for limited sewer connections: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups at every site. At Lynches River County Park, only select sites feature sewer connections, though water and electric are widely available. The dump station is centrally located for easy access when departing.
