Camping sites near Gaffney, South Carolina range from established parks to rustic lakeside options across the Piedmont region. The area sits at elevations between 700-1,100 feet with a humid subtropical climate that brings hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters where frost is common from November through March. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round, though certain facilities may close during winter months.
What to do
Hiking and trail access: Kings Mountain State Park connects to over 16 miles of trails including paths that lead to Kings Mountain National Military Park. "Tons to do, including hikes and history. Make sure to go across the street to the Kings Mountain Military site. Better yet, plan your stay when they are doing an event," notes camper Don H.
Fishing opportunities: John H. Moss Lake Campground provides direct access to a 1,660-acre reservoir known for largemouth bass, crappie and bream. Located just 23 miles from Gaffney, one visitor mentions, "The lake has great fishing," while another adds that the campground offers "quiet, clean, and well taken care of grounds."
Swimming and water activities: Several campgrounds maintain seasonal pools that typically operate from May through September. At Iron City Campground, campers highlight the water features: "Pool is amazing. Tons of stuff for the kids to do," says Rick B. Another visitor, Bob B., describes it as a "beautiful pool" alongside "miles of winding golf cart trails in the woods."
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Bath facilities consistently receive positive mentions at campgrounds in the Gaffney area. At Pine Ridge Campground, located 31 miles from Gaffney, visitors appreciate the "cleanest bathhouse I've ever seen," according to one review. Another camper notes the "beautiful restrooms kept clean and had a combination lock on them."
Pet-friendly accommodations: Multiple camping areas near Gaffney welcome dogs with dedicated exercise areas. Michael H. commented about Iron City Campground: "Nice dog park, nice playground. We would stay here again." Another reviewer specifically mentioned the "large clean new dog park" as part of the amenities.
Year-round accessibility: Most camping options maintain operations regardless of season, with varying levels of amenities. Primitive Camping By the Creek offers a more rustic experience with a visitor noting, "Plenty of firewood and next to a creek. I highly recommend." Another camper mentioned, "He provided dry firewood in a shed to keep the fire going which was helpful after the hurricane rains."
What you should know
Site conditions vary considerably: Campsite quality differs widely between established campgrounds. At Kings Mountain State Park, Richard E. warns: "Many camping sites are very much in need of leveling. Sites slope from left to right, front to back, and some slope in both ways." Another camper observed that "sites are very close together and there are almost no plants other than tall trees to offer any privacy."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, particularly during summer and fall weekends. Small properties like Primitive Camping By the Creek with only two sites fill quickly. A visitor noted: "We decided to camp last minute on a road trip back from Mississippi. David was very accommodating and flexible about check in."
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant humidity during summer months, while winter camping requires preparation for freezing temperatures. Spring and fall generally offer more moderate conditions. When describing a stay at Kings Mountain, one camper noted: "We stayed in May for a weekend. It was full of people and kids."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated activity areas: Several campgrounds offer specific recreation zones designed for children. "There is an acre of catch and release pond, a playground and jump pad for kids, a pool, some trails, several things to do," notes a visitor to Pine Ridge Campground. Another family mentioned "our 12 year old son loves the pool and being able to ride his electric bike around the campground."
Select sites with adequate space: Family camping requires room for multiple tents or equipment. Spacious Skies Peach Haven (formerly Spartanburg NE/Gaffney KOA) offers "nice wide sites and many with views of three ponds nestled in the woods," according to Ann B. Another camper mentions they "got a buddy site for the price of a normal one!"
Check for seasonal activities: Many campgrounds coordinate special weekend events, particularly during summer months. At Iron City Campground, James U. reports: "The host does a great job lining up activities including Kona Ice for the campers on Saturday's."
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Several campgrounds have challenging approach roads or internal driving conditions. At Croft State Park Campground, the tent and RV sites are described as "very close together with almost no privacy - almost just an open area." For larger rigs, approach routes can be problematic.
Leveling requirements: Many RV sites in the region require significant leveling. One RVer commented about Foothills Family Campground: "The roads in the campground are dirt, rutted, and steep. I am glad we unhooked our Jeep before navigating our RV to the site. The RV rocked and rolled quite a bit."
Hookup locations: Utility connections may be positioned awkwardly at some campgrounds. A camper at Kings Mountain State Park observed: "The electric and water are in odd spots on each site. Luckily we were on one of the rare fairly level sites."
