Equestrian camping near Westminster, South Carolina offers access to extensive trail networks throughout the Sumter and Chattahoochee National Forests. The region sits at elevations between 1,000-3,500 feet, creating moderate riding terrain with frequent stream crossings. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with higher humidity levels, while fall brings cooler riding weather and colorful foliage displays.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Creek and river fishing spots are abundant near camping areas. At Lazy J Campground, campers can fish directly from riverside sites. One visitor notes, "We fished right next to our camp site and then relaxed with a camp fire listening to the sound of the River."
Waterfall exploration: Multiple hiking trails lead to waterfalls within 30 minutes of most campgrounds. According to a camper at Oconee State Park Campground: "There are tons of hiking opportunities in the area with tons of waterfalls. We did get to hike to a few, but wish we had more time to spend there."
Lake swimming: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas and boat ramps for water recreation. "The lake is great for swimming. The campground also offers paddle board and kayak rentals," states a review of South Cove County Park.
Trail riding networks: Beyond the established horse camps, riders can access additional trail systems at nearby state and national forests. One rider at Cherokee Campground mentioned it's "close to activities to keep you entertained all day."
What campers like
Lake views: Many sites offer direct water access. At South Cove County Park, "There appeared to be beautiful lake views from almost every site," according to a camper, while another noted, "Beautiful tiered campsites. In the last year there has been many upgrades to the existing sites."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom buildings. A camper at Standing Indian Campground shared, "Bathrooms and showers are clean. Wonderful place to tent camp, van camp, or tow a SMALL trailer to (a pop-up would be perfect)."
Night sounds: The sound of flowing water creates a peaceful atmosphere. "We could hear the stream from our site at night. Exactly what we were looking for," mentioned a camper at Standing Indian Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening offer opportunities to see native wildlife. A camper at Don Carter State Park observed, "From 6 in the evening and beyond you will find deer grazing in late summer and early fall, also raccoons and other small animals can be spotted roaming in some of the open areas."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor or no reception. At Oconee State Park, a camper reports, "The area very serene, quiet and pretty. Nice hiking area and swimming area. If you need to get ahold of someone though you'll have to drive 10 to 15 minutes into town."
Tent pad surfaces: Some campgrounds have hard-packed ground making tent stakes difficult to use. At Oconee State Park, a reviewer noted: "Campsites are often uneven with alot of tree roots running throughout. It does require consideration before parking your trailer or RV."
Wildlife precautions: Bears are present in the area and proper food storage is essential. One camper at Oconee State Park mentioned, "There were warning signs for bears, but we saw no trace of them."
Gate hours: Some parks lock entrance gates in the evening. According to a reviewer at South Cove County Park, "The campground has a gate that gets locked at 10 pm. You can leave but you can't come back into the campground after the gate gets locked."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. A camper at South Cove County Park reported, "Well maintained campground, with pretty views. There are several large play areas in walking distance."
Stream play areas: Shallow water areas provide safe recreation spots. At Track Rock Campground, a family noted, "We had a wonderful time with a group of friends camping in the group camping area," and another mentioned, "We had a well shaded site w/a little creek behind it."
Wildlife interactions: Some campgrounds feature farm animals. "Hosts were very friendly, bath house was clean, and had chickens running around the camp site," wrote a camper at Lazy J Campground.
Educational opportunities: Check for ranger programs and nearby learning activities. "We went to a ranger program on raptors on Saturday which was interesting," shared a visitor at Don Carter State Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven sites at some campgrounds. A reviewer at Track Rock Campground shared, "Road needs some work sites aren't super level but it was ok," while another advised, "We were nervous about parking and getting set up- but they helped us get a spot that was easy to pull into."
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have narrow or steep access roads. About Standing Indian Campground, a reviewer warned, "The road to this campground is very narrow, the hill is very steep, and there is at least one very tight hairpin turn. Unless there is another way into this lovely park that I am unaware of, I would not attempt to tow a 5th wheel or other large trailer to this location."
Hookup availability: Check which utilities are provided at specific sites. According to a camper at South Cove County Park, "All sites have 50 amp electric and water hook-up. It sits out on a peninsula on Lake Keowee in Seneca, SC. Almost every site is on the water, and those that aren't, have a water view."
Shade coverage: Some RV sites lack tree cover for summer cooling. As one South Cove reviewer noted, "Mostly for RVs however there are a few tent sites that have tree cover. The RV sites don't really offer any trees for shade."
