South Cove County Park

After hours of scrolling through nature photos and majestic mountains, the urge to get out and explore is hard to ignore.  We applaud the explorers and adventurers of the world who brave the treacherous elements, as well as the sweet photos that come as a result. However, for many the ideal of a fun weekend away consists less of roughing it, and more relaxing on a beach or in a warm cabin. If you’re in the latter of these groups, you’re going to love Oconee State Park. 

Oconee is the idealistic place for families and friends looking for a nostalgic getaway complete with rustic charm and character. Dotted throughout the park are rustic, Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Cabins available for nightly and weekly rental. Meanwhile, a small, glassy lake lazily invites campers to disrupt its reflection with the canoes and kayaks located on shore. 

The Greenville region is known for 25+ waterfalls found throughout. Closer in, the 1,100+ acre state park hosts  a number of wooded nature trails snake throughout. It also serves as the trailhead for South Carolina’s 77 miles Foothills Trail. Friends and families visiting can enjoy the local wildlife, as well as the regional flora and fauna which proudly thrive in abundance. 

In the summer Lake Oconee comes alive, creating the backdrop for unforgettable family vacations. Festivities begin in June, including Square Dancing, mini golf, pedal boating competitions, and so much more. However the Winter Months are just as enjoyable if you don’t mind getting cozy in a warm cabin, sipping some coco, and reading a good book. The rangers here are known for their hospitality, and are knowledgeable on the area. Stop in their lodge for a small convenience store, firewood, and great conversations. 

Oconee offers all the benefits of a mountain resort without the upscale pricing. There are 140+ sites available for rent, starting at just $21/night.  Cabins and lodging is available but pricing is dependent on group sizes and room choice, so be sure plan out your trip in advance before coming. 

Oconee State Park

Lazy J Campground

## Overview

Located in the northern Georgia mountains, far from civilization, Willis Knob Horse Campground is one of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests most beloved horse-lover hideaways.   
  
The campground features equestrian camping, riding and hiking trails and fishing in the nearby Chattooga River. 

## Recreation

The 15-mile Willis Knob Trail in Georgia and 12.5 mile Rocky Gap Trail in South Carolina provide some of the most scenic horseback riding and hiking in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains. Winding across deeply dissected ridges, the trails descend into the vast Chattooga River.  
  
  
  
The 10.7-mile Chattooga River Trail and the 37-mile Bartram Trail are also accessible nearby and are for hiking only. Fishing is available in the Chattooga River.

## Facilities

The campground provides single, double and group campsites for tent and RV camping. There are water and electric hookups at each of the horse campsites, along with tables, lantern posts and campfire rings with grills. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are also provided.  
  
  
  
Hitching highlines and a horse watering station are available. Campers are required to clean up after their horses using trailers provided on-site for manure and hay.

## Natural Features

The horse camp is located in a heavily wooded area of the forest, amid deep canyons and near to the Georgia-South Carolina border. 

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (706) 754-6221. 

## Nearby Attractions

Chattooga River Wild and Scenic area is nearby

Willis Knob Horse Camp

## Overview

Whetstone Horse Camp is located in the Andrew Pickens Ranger District in Oconee County in the western corner of South Carolina, about 13 miles northwest of Walhalla. The Chattooga River flows nearby. With over 30 miles of horseback riding trails, Whetstone serves as a base for those who like to ride and camp.

## Recreation

The Rocky Gap Trail on the South Carolina side of the river and the Willis Knob Horse Trail on the Georgia side provide excellent horseback riding and hiking opportunities. Visitors also enjoy exploring the nearby Chattooga River.

## Facilities

The campground is open year-round and has 18 sites with parking spurs for horse trailers. All of the 18 Sites are by reservation only.   
  
Each site is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring and lantern post. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. Hitching racks are located throughout the facility.

## Natural Features

The camp is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, near the Rocky Gap and Willis Knob Horse Trails.   
  
The Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests encompass more than 629,000 acres in four districts throughout South Carolina, from the lowcountry Atlantic Coast to the western foothills along the Georgia border. 

## Nearby Attractions

The town of Walhalla is 13 miles away. The town holds an annual Oktoberfest celebration the third weekend of October.   
  
Stumphouse Tunnel, a 19-century uncompleted railroad tunnel, and Isaqueena Falls make for interesting visits. Both are located just 20 minutes from the camp.

Whetstone Horse Camp

Panthertown Valley is a rugged and wild 6,311-acre backcountry area located on Nantahala National Forest in western North Carolina, on the eastern continental divide, between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Panthertown features a diversity of native flora and fauna, pristine headwaters of the Tuckasegee River, a rare high-elevation southern Appalachian mountain bog, dozens of waterfalls, granite cliffs and domes, and is part of Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, and Bonas Defeat-Panthertown American Black Bear Sanctuary.

Friends of Panthertown works in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service to conserve this outstanding natural resource while improving the quality and experience of recreational opportunities in Panthertown.

Panthertown is a wonderful place to explore, however there are a few things you should be aware of before visiting for your first time. We hope this list of suggestions (and cautions) will make your experience in Panthertown Valley more enjoyable:

*   Your safety is your responsibility. Plan ahead and come prepared.
    
*   This is a wild, rugged place with more than 30 miles of public trails spread out over 6,311 acres deep in the Nantahala National Forest. **It’s easy to get lost.** We recommend you bring a good map and compass, and know how to use them.
    
*   Panthertown is NOT a National Park or State Park. It’s common to not see any other people when visiting. Cell phone service here can be spotty or unreachable. Use the trails with caution and at your own risk.
    
*   **Bring plenty of water** to drink, or a filtration system to keep you hydrated. There are no water fountains, trash cans, or restrooms here.
    
*   Please **carry out your trash** and practice Leave No Trace principles of outdoor ethics when visiting.
    
*   Hiking in the forest can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced hikers. Know before you go, plan ahead, and come prepared for a fun backcountry experience.
    
*   You may get hot, cold, wet, muddy, scratched up, and dirty just from hiking and exploring in Panthertown, so dress appropriately and in layers.
    
*   Expect to hike several miles on uneven surfaces to reach the most popular points of interest, including waterfalls and overlooks.
    
*   The hike out of the valley is uphill and can be difficult. Some hiking experience is recommended. Make sure you save some energy and water for your walk back to the parking area. That’s all part of the Panthertown experience!
    
*   American **black bears live here** and are protected as part of the Bonas Defeat-Panthertown Bear Sanctuary. Panthertown hosts a diversity of wildlife, please do not feed the animals!
    
*   Common natural hazards to watch out for include venomous snakes and yellow jacket nests.
    
*   Friends of Panthertown volunteers only maintain the official trail system in Panthertown. There are hundreds of miles of user created footpaths that crisscross the valley. For your safety, and to protect the ecology, we recommend you stay on the marked trails and avoid short cuts through the woods. Remember, it’s easy to get lost here, and we want you to enjoy your backcountry experience.
    

**CAMPING**

*   **Dispersed camping is primitive and no amenities are provided. F**orest Service rules limit camp sites to no more than 12 people, and not within 50 feet of water sources. No permits are required for non-commercial groups.
    
*   Please **use existing fire rings and never leave a fire unattended**. Make sure to properly extinguish and drown your fire and coals before leaving your camp site!
    
*   Follow these recommendations to avoid any close encounters with bears: [https://panthertown.org/bears/](https://panthertown.org/bears/)
    

**PARKING**

*   There is limited parking at three entrances (Salt Rock Gap, Cold Mountain Gap, and Flat Creek), low-clearance gravel Forest Service roads, and heavy use on weekends. https://panthertown.org/directions
    
*   Drive slowly and use caution to not damage your vehicle or the road.
    
*   Equestrians please note: there are no horse trails at the Cold Mountain Gap trailheads. Horse trailer parking is prohibited there. The Salt Rock Gap entrance offers limited parking and can be difficult to turn a horse trailer around. If you use this entrance, we suggest that you park and unload your trailer on the pavement at the end of state maintained Breedlove Road.
    
*   The Flat Creek parking area off Rock Bridge Road north of Lake Toxaway on NC 281 is the largest and offers a wide horse trailer turn around with easy access to the Panthertown Valley Trail System.
    

**LEAVE NO TRACE**

Always practice Leave No Trace principles of outdoor ethics when visiting.

The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace:

*   Plan Ahead and Prepare
    
*   Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
    
*   Dispose of Waste Properly
    
*   Leave What You Find
    
*   Minimize Campfire Impacts
    
*   Respect Wildlife
    
*   Be Considerate of Other Visitors
    

Reprinted with permission ©Leave No Trace

Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area

Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area Trailside Camping

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Do you love the outdoors and horses? If you're looking for a rustic but not uncomfortable experience, horse camping in South Carolina may be the way to go. Equestrian camping is an adventurous and unique way to experience the state. Search nearby equestrian campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

South Carolina

The Best Equestrian Camping in South Carolina

Do you love the outdoors and horses? If you're looking for a rustic but comfortable experience, horse camping in Fairview is the way to go. Camping with horses is a beautiful way to experience nature. These scenic and easy-to-reach South Carolina campsites are perfect for your horse camping excursion.

Fairview

The Best Equestrian Camping Near Fairview, South Carolina

Located approximately 8 miles from Clayton surrounded with 16,000 acres of Wildlife Management Area. 21 campsites overlooking the beautiful Walnut Fork Creek. 2 Bath Houses on site; as well as a covered pavilion for gatherings. 

Randy’s Horse Camp

**Bent River Equestrian** is a small horse farm at the foot of the Pisgah National Forest and \*less than \*4 miles from DuPont State Recreational Forest.

The farm is in a small neighborhood, so *appropriate for families, couples, and small groups* to use as a base camp for their adventures. We are only a few miles Oskar Blues, The Hub, and Ecusta Brewing! Additionally, Brevard has many restaurants and a bit of night life, with bands playing at 185 King St. regularly. Sunsets in the Fall and Spring are amazing on the farm, but we normally recommend you spend afternoons in the shade of the woods or river.

There are two Farm Hands/Backpacking Guides who live on site in their own tiny homes, and my small home is on site. Campers have an unobstructed view of Looking Glass Rock, Mt. Pisgah, and you can see up to The Devil's Courthouse.



Bent River Equestrian

RV sites available with 50 & 30 amp power, septic and water. Monthly rates available April through October. Tent sites available also.



Panther Ridge RV Park and Campground

Join the fun near Columbia. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Columbia camping trip.

Columbia

The Best Camping Near Columbia, South Carolina

Looking for the best campgrounds near Charleston, SC? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Charleston campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Charleston. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Charleston

The Best Camping Near Charleston, South Carolina

North Charleston is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that South Carolina camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your South Carolina camping adventure.

North Charleston

The Best Camping Near North Charleston, South Carolina

Mount Pleasant is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Mount Pleasant, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Mount Pleasant, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Mount Pleasant

The Best Camping Near Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Orangeburg is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Orangeburg campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Orangeburg camping trip.

Orangeburg

The Best Camping Near Orangeburg, South Carolina

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Rock Hill, SC has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your South Carolina camping adventure.

Rock Hill

The Best Camping Near Rock Hill, South Carolina

Are you in need of a campground near Greenville, SC? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Greenville is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Greenville, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Greenville

The Best Camping Near Greenville, South Carolina

Summerville is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that South Carolina camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Summerville, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Summerville

The Best Camping Near Summerville, South Carolina

Looking for the best campgrounds near Sumter, SC? Sumter is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Sumter, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Sumter

The Best Camping Near Sumter, South Carolina

Are you in need of a campground near Hilton Head Island, SC? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Hilton Head Island campgrounds just for you. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Hilton Head Island and user-submitted reviews.

Hilton Head Island

The Best Camping Near Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Are you in need of a campground near Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests, SC? Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests

The Best Camping Near Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests, South Carolina

The expansive Congaree National Park in South Carolina has some of the best camping in the state. Near the state capital of Columbia, the 26,276-acre park has campsites with activities to excite everyone. Camping by the Congaree and Wateree Rivers gives campers access to rafting, kayaking, and fishing. Depending on the time of your trip, you may get to see the manatee swimming in the river. Bring a tent and stay in the backcountry near the stand of historic hardwood trees that are some of the tallest in eastern North America. RV campers can also find campgrounds accommodating their larger vehicles.

The Best Equestrian Camping in Fairview

Top Campgrounds in Fairview (15)

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