Crowders Mountain State Park campsites require a one-mile hike from the Sparrow Springs access point to reach the camping area. Located within an hour from Gaffney, South Carolina, the park sits at elevations reaching over 1,600 feet. The tent-only sites along Pinnacle Trail include both family and group options, with drinking water available from spigots and basic pit toilets at the campground.
What to do
Hiking and rock climbing: At Crowders Mountain State Park, trails range from moderate to strenuous with elevations providing panoramic views. "A little hard hike but worth the view," notes Brittany J. The park offers climbing opportunities as well, with routes for various skill levels. "We spent the day rock climbing. It was his first time climbing, and we were able to set up some beginner-friendly routes," shares Les R.
Fishing and kayaking: Ebenezer Park Campground provides direct lake access for anglers and boaters. Located on Lake Wylie, the park features boat ramps for easy water entry. "Fun beach within easy walk from campsite," mentions Frankie E., highlighting the water recreation opportunities. The park underwent renovations to improve boat docks and beach areas.
Dog-friendly activities: Four Paws Kingdom Campground offers specialized activities for canine companions. "18 acres of wonder open areas fenced in to keep you furry friends from running away, there is agility park, puppy park, the main dog park, a private park (single or you can invite), a Lure run, a Ball Park, and a Pond for those watery dogs," describes Chris & D. This adults-only, dog-centric park provides numerous options for pet exercise and socialization.
What campers like
Secluded tent camping sites: Tent campers appreciate the backcountry feel at Crowders Mountain while still being accessible. "Crowders Mountain State Park is indeed a perfect place for day use--but in contrary to what some previous reviewers mentioned, it is also a neat place to camp if you don't mind a one mile hike in to the campground," explains Janet R. The walk-in requirement creates a more rustic experience with fewer crowds.
Clean facilities and amenities: Pine Ridge Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. "Wonderful campground. Very nice management. Was able to contact them for anything via text or walk into office when open. Beautiful restrooms kept clean and had a combination lock on them," reports Mary C. Another camper notes, "Bath house clean and laundry facility great!"
Family-oriented activities: Emberglow Outdoor Resort features numerous recreation options for all ages. "Great place for kids with jump pad, swingset, slides, climbing dome, pool, a creek to explore, hiking trails, and more! We planned to explore the area (Chimney Rock, Lake Lure) but ended up staying the entire time in the campground," says Stacey. The resort maintains 57 sites including glamping options and traditional camping.
What you should know
Diverse accommodation options: Glamping near Gaffney, South Carolina includes variety beyond traditional canvas tents. McDowell Nature Preserve offers a balance of rustic and modern camping. "It is hard to believe that you are in the city limits of Charlotte in this campground. It is very rustic, with lots of trees and nature, and the campsites are nicely spaced out so you're not on top of other units," explains Rick B.
Seasonal considerations: Many park facilities have limited hours or seasonal closures. "We went around Halloween and they had trick-or-treating around the park as well as prizes for the best decorated," notes Ashley W. about Ebenezer Park. At Emberglow, a visitor advises: "If you go during off season, plan for a lot of the amenities to be closed. We went memorial day and the few days after most of the amenities were closed except pool and the lake."
Terrain challenges: Campgrounds in this region often feature hilly terrain. "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," shares Kevin A. about Foothills Family Campground. Similarly, Crowders Mountain sites require planning as "you must be prepared to pack everything in."
Tips for camping with families
Reserve early for glamping structures: The most unique glamping accommodations near Gaffney book quickly. At Emberglow Outdoor Resort, "There are also camping pods - basically an igloo shaped cabin that is good for a couple people. Yurts are just up the hill from those, alongside two beautiful tiny homes that are some of the most unique campground rentals I've ever seen. Book these early - we were here in late June and they were already full until October!"
Consider proximity to water recreation: Families with children often prefer sites near swimming options. "Super close to town to get supplies and dinner. We really enjoyed all of the different hikes and the lake as well as the hike to the top of the mountain. The hike to the top was a little strenuous for smaller kids," reports Lisa L. about Crowders Mountain.
Pack adequate supplies for tent sites: Remote sites require more planning. "There is a hike to the campsite from the parking lot so we definitely got our workout in bringing our gear in," notes Lisa L. "Drinking water and outhouses are available though," adds Les R. about Crowders Mountain's facilities.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions and terrain: Many local campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "The park is lovely, with lots of trails and nature. Beautiful wooded setting. So awesome to have hiking trails that lead right out of the campground. That said, there aren't many sites for RVs and some are not level - hard to get trailer level even with max leveling blocks," advises Kathy L. about McDowell Nature Preserve.
Consider seasonal campgrounds: Some glamping sites near Gaffney operate year-round while others have limited seasons. "We stayed here one night on our way through the area. The owners were very nice and helped us get situated in our site. The roads in the campground are dirt, rutted, and steep," notes Kevin A. The review adds, "Most campers were seasonal or long-term campers."
