Dispersed camping near Drayton, South Carolina offers primitive experiences within the Francis Marion National Forest at elevations ranging from near sea level to approximately 30 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity while winter camping provides milder conditions with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Seasonal rainfall affects terrain conditions significantly at most dispersed sites, with sandy soil draining quickly near coastal areas but creating muddy conditions inland.
What to do
Hiking Palmetto Trail sections: Connect directly from Halfway Creek Primitive Camping to miles of maintained trails. "Hiking trails are nice and groomed," notes Nick C., who found the area "very peaceful and everyone stays to themselves."
Fishing opportunities: Guilliard Lake offers freshwater fishing access with multiple species available. According to Stephen F., visitors can spot "Bald eagles, owls, otter, fish. It's beautiful."
Shell collecting: Caper's Island provides exceptional beachcombing. "After we set up our campsite, we went on a long walk down the boneyard beach for firewood and sea shell hunting (tons of conch shells and sand dollars)," reports Michelle C.
Motocross trail access: Located near Halfway Creek camping areas, the Wambaw Cycle Trail system provides maintained routes specifically for dirt bikes and motocross enthusiasts, with multiple difficulty levels and terrain types.
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping provides isolation without long travel times. One visitor describes it as "one of those nearest far away places due to the seclusion."
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report consistent wildlife sightings around primitive campsites. Stephen F. specifically noted observing "Bald eagles, owls, otter, fish" at Guilliard Lake.
Multiple camping zones: Dispersed sites offer various terrain options. At Halfway Creek, "There are 3 areas to camp: along the dirt loop road, a big field, and a few areas tucked back in the trees," allowing visitors to select their preferred setting.
Beach camping: For those willing to boat in, Caper's Island provides direct beachfront primitive camping. Michelle C. called it "Perfect family camping" and mentioned "no amenities beyond what you bring with you."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Guilliard Lake requires navigating challenging terrain. Andy K. warns, "The dirt road in for several miles has VERY large potholes and you have to weave across the track to avoid them. Ok with car if very careful especially at night."
Variable site conditions: Quality and cleanliness vary significantly between sites and seasons. Some campers report excellent experiences while others note concerns. Bradley T. mentioned "Immediately upon entering the roundabout is just completely full of trash" at one Halfway Creek site.
Cell service status: Limited connectivity exists at most sites. At Guilliard Lake, Andy K. reported "Cell signal with Verizon 2 bars seemed ok" but service is inconsistent throughout the region.
Complete self-sufficiency required: No services exist at these sites. Andy K. advises to "Definitely make sure you have all you need before getting to the site, not a road you want to keep traveling down."
Tips for camping with families
Bug protection: Insect activity remains high throughout warm months. Ethan B. reported having "to deal with a ton of insects" at Halfway Creek Primitive Camping.
Site selection considerations: For families, Halfway Creek Primitive Camping - TEMPORARILY CLOSED offers multiple options when open. "You can pull your car in almost about anywhere, just be aware of low hanging branches," notes Ethan B.
Weekend crowding: Expect company during peak seasons. "Depending on the year, you'll either have this campsite all to yourself, or be sharing it with 100 other tents. Large groups love this free site (i.e. church youth groups)."
Law enforcement presence: Regular patrols occur at some sites. Cori B. mentioned "The area has been cleaned up and a few times during the day and night a police officer patrolled the area. Just smiled and waved."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large rigs should avoid most dispersed sites near Drayton. At Guilliard Lake, Andy K. states clearly: "This is not a campground for anyone with a large rig or RV."
Limited availability: Even at established dispersed areas, RV spots remain scarce. At Halfway Creek, "There are only a couple spots for an RV or Travel Trailer to park, but they are pull through along the side of the main loop."
Road clearance requirements: High-clearance vehicles provide significant advantages when accessing rustic camping near Drayton, South Carolina. One camper attempting to reach Guilliard Lake reported "I had already turned off my ESC. My rig is a 21 ft Promaster 3500 with OHV lift and was able to turn around but not without doubt."
