Tent campsites near Darlington, South Carolina provide access to the region's unique Sandhills ecosystem, characterized by longleaf pine forests, scrub oak, and sandy soil formations. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional frost. Several camping areas enforce seasonal fire restrictions during dry periods from May through September.
What to do
Volunteer for special events: Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge hosts the Sandblast Rally every March, offering a unique camping opportunity. "Camping to the general public is not permitted here unless you're in a group, or volunteering. The first weekend in March most of the roads in the refuge are closed and is staged out for the Sandblast Rally. Tons of fun for a volunteer and a great excuse to be outdoors," notes John P.
Participate in environmental education: School and youth groups can access special camping opportunities. "For the purpose of environmental education programs and research activity, school groups and youth groups are welcome to visit the preserve for ranger led programs and can stay overnight at special rustic group campsites," explains Janet R. Groups must obtain permits and complete service learning projects during their stay.
Water activities: The Lumber River offers multiple recreation options. "The river is nice to swim in after a hot summer's day, although the bottom is quite squishy. It's a good area to fish or use small watercraft," according to Courtney B. from Princess Ann — Lumber River State Park.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Princess Ann campground sometimes offers remarkable isolation. "A great campsite! We had a fantastic time last week! We also had the privilege of having the park COMPLETELY to ourselves...the ranger confirmed that we were the only campers that night!" reports Michael B.
Stargazing opportunities: The area's distance from major urban centers creates excellent night sky viewing. Jennifer H. notes, "You can see tons of stars here at night, it is amazing! It's lovely to sit by the water and look at the night sky."
Multi-activity options: Some campsites provide diverse recreational opportunities in one location. Donald C. describes the Princess Ann area as a "Good spot for camping or hiking or kayaking you can do it all."
What you should know
Limited public camping access: Standard public camping at Carolina Sandhills Wildlife Refuge requires special arrangements. "Camping is not open to the general public at this wildlife preserve. However, for the purpose of environmental education programs and research activity, school groups and youth groups are welcome," explains Janet R. Independent researchers can also apply for permits.
Service requirements: Groups staying at Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge must contribute during their visit. "Camping is free, but the camping ground is required to do some kind of service learning project while in residence, and/or submit a list of species observed or studied while in residence," notes Janet R.
Walk-in sites availability: Some of the most scenic tent sites require additional effort to reach. At Princess Ann, "Sites 7 & 8 would be perfect for two families to camp together, because they'd have the whole trail area to themselves. These sites have a bit of hike-in required, in that you can't drive up to them," according to Courtney B.
Tips for camping with families
Consider noise levels: Wildlife activity, particularly owls, can disturb light sleepers. Jennifer H. advises, "If you are a light sleeper you may want to consider ear plugs. It's lovely, but the owls do get kind of rowdy at points making a racket."
Plan for bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies between campgrounds. Courtney B. notes about Princess Ann, "There is a vault toilet near the parking lot ('that's gonna be a no from me, dog') but an actual restroom facility across the parking lot."
Trash management: Some sites provide convenient waste disposal services. "Each of the sites has its own trash can, and a ranger comes by in the morning to empty it," reports Courtney B. about the Princess Ann campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: The camping areas near Darlington primarily cater to tent camping, with Princess Ann offering some limited hookup options. Electric, water, and sewer connections are available at select sites, but RV-specific amenities like sanitary dump stations and propane fill services are not provided at most locations.
Site spacing considerations: RV campers should note that sites at some campgrounds are positioned closely together, potentially limiting privacy. Though as Jennifer H. mentioned about Princess Ann, "The sites were kind of close together, but it turned out just fine."
