Near Whitmire, South Carolina, camping opportunities span across the Sumter National Forest's diverse 371,000-acre landscape. The area sits at elevations ranging from 200 to 400 feet above sea level, creating moderate terrain suitable for various camping styles. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter lows typically drop to the mid-30s, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking on the Palmetto Trail: Access multiple sections of South Carolina's cross-state trail system directly from several forest campgrounds. "Site 16 was a little damp due to heavy rain but a great site. Mostly away from everyone and was right next to a 9 mile loop hiking trail," notes Jacob L. from Brick House Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Lake access provides multiple fishing spots for various species. At Lake Greenwood State Park Campground, one camper observed, "The lake was beautiful and clear, the grounds and trails on the park were quaint and well kept, and the bathroom facilities were clean and inviting."
Disc golf: Several parks offer complete courses. "There is an amazing seating area near the fishing dock, with multiple hanging bench swings, communal fire pits and a great view of the lake. There was a nice trail around the lake, peddle boat rentals, and a world class frisbee golf course," reports David S. at Chester State Park.
Equestrian camping: Designated sites accommodate horse owners with special facilities. At Woods Ferry Campground, a visitor explained, "Woods Ferry is a campground mainly for campers who have horses. There are corrals at many of the campsites."
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Several national forest campgrounds offer economical camping within 20 miles of Whitmire. "Very well taken care of campground. Vault toilet was clean. There are a couple pull-through spots. We were the only campers there. $5 a spot," writes Allyse about Brick House Campground.
Waterfront access: Sites along Lake Murray and Lake Greenwood provide direct water activities. A visitor to Chester State Park Campground commented, "While some sites have wonderful views of the lake, these two sites had a nice grassy area, big enough for some corn hole, frisbee or some tag. It also had a few options for hammocks."
Clean facilities: Park maintenance receives consistently positive mentions. At Croft State Park Campground, one camper noted, "Compared to some other state parks in SC, this one was less crowded and more peaceful. It was silent at night. Nice hiking around lake, fishing, and boat rental. Saw some turtles while paddling, and there were frogs and lots of fireflies near our campsite."
Trail connectivity: Many campsites connect to wider trail networks. A camper at Sedalia Campground mentioned, "We like it. It's been quiet the times that we've been there. If you're a road cyclist this is heaven, and some decent trail riding down to the lakes."
What you should know
Variable drinking water access: Not all campgrounds provide reliable water sources. One reviewer at Sedalia Campground stated, "We like it. It's been quiet the times that we've been there... Just be aware that there are no picnic tables."
Limited cellular reception: Coverage varies significantly across forest campgrounds. While no specific reviews mention this, gaps in service are common in rural forest areas.
Seasonal road conditions: Forest service roads may deteriorate after rain. A Brick House camper warned, "Beware of the giant pothole when turning off the 66 onto the Brickhouse Road. We hit it and it jarred the trailer so much it broke our back window."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others allow walk-ins. A camper at Brick House noted, "This campground is run by the state and reservations have to be made through rec.gov. Check with them or the local ranger before headed out. It can get tricky through hunting season versus non hunting season."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated children's areas. At Newberry / I-26 / Sumter NF KOA, Logan S. shared, "The owners and host are amazing at what they do! They've planned so much for this campground that our kids have had 5 days of things to do each day."
Swimming spots: Identify lakes with designated swimming areas. A visitor at Croft State Park mentioned, "It had rained right before we arrived, and we got stuck in the mud trying to back-in our pop-up on a hill (lake campground #29). The campers all pitched in to pull us out."
Organized activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular events. At Newberry KOA, Tim P. observed, "Great hosts, great wifi, pool, playground basketball, games and scavenger hunts. Big covered picnic area with Blackstone and fire ring. Decorated for Halloween."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites offer chances to spot native species. A Croft State Park camper noted, "We enjoyed seeing the equestrian visitors too."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven surfaces at some campgrounds. One RVer at Dreher Island State Park Campground shared this experience: "Was scheduled for site #87 but being a recent widow and very limited experience parking I requested a change of site... The camp host had to help guide me in around a tree that required me to fold in the passenger side mirror."
Road access information: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. Michael W. at Brick House Campground advised, "Easy access from I26. Spent a week here and really enjoying it. Has 21 spots. All have legal gravel pads, fire rings with grill bars. Vault toilets clean and trash containers serviced. Within good driving distance to larger towns. Access for bigger rigs too."
Hookup availability: Electrical and water connections vary by campground. At Lake Greenwood State Park, one camper clarified, "All roads and camp spots are paved and have fire pits. Some have water and power (30 and 50 amp), some have sewer."
