Camping spots near Darlington, South Carolina range from equestrian-friendly state parks to RV resorts with full hookups. The sandy soils of this Pee Dee region create well-draining campgrounds that recover quickly after rain. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 100-300 feet above sea level, creating relatively flat terrain that's accessible for all camping styles.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Lee State Park Campground offers equestrian facilities with horse trails throughout the park. Camper Lauren V. noted, "Hosts were super nice, even when we got in late. Was wonderful to wake up and see the horses. Also dog friendly which is a plus."
Archery practice: Lynches River County Park features an archery range open to campers. According to reviewer John P., the park has an "environmental learning center. A canopy boardwalk in the trees. Kayak loading dock. And small campground with archery course."
Water activities: Cheraw State Park Campground provides lake access with kayak and canoe rentals. As reviewer Sara M. shares, "When it isn't off season they have cheap boat rentals. Firewood is $6.50 per bundle."
Fishing in stocked ponds: The Farm Campground offers fishing access to nearby Lake Robinson. Julie P. mentioned, "The Farm has everything you need for a rv get away. We enjoyed the trees, privacy and friendliness of the owners! Multi generational campground that has some long term campers as well as camping by some working short term in the area. Super close to Lake Robinson."
What campers like
Clean, modern bathrooms: Lynches River County Park maintains well-kept facilities despite being a small campground. Reviewer Thunderroad 5 noted, "Camped here only one night as a layover on way to another destination. Small camping area with only couple rv sites with other sites for tent camping. Went for nice hike near river."
Spacious sites with shade: Cheraw State Park Campground offers sites with good separation and tree cover. MaryAnn P. wrote, "The camping spots were clean and well kept....some have water and electric hookups and some are more rustic. There are plenty of large spaces for RVs with lots of room around them for privacy. It felt very private even though there were people all around."
Budget-friendly rates: The Farm Campground offers affordable camping options. Gary D. shared, "5 of us on 4 motorcycles needed a place to stay for the night on the way to Myrtle Beach bike week. After you drive down a long sandy rutty road you come to the farm. A little oasis for the road weary. Mostly long term trailers are here but the do have tent camping. Nestled in the woods with sandy soil. Excellent rates. 25$ for the 5 of us and the best bathrooms ever!"
Wildlife viewing: Lee State Park Campground allows campers to observe horses in their natural habitat. Swain K. mentioned, "If you have never stayed with horses you can not be prepared for the flyes. they were swarms of them. there was a old timey band that played the night we arrived. trails were nice and lots to see."
What you should know
Insect preparedness: Lee State Park Campground can have significant fly populations due to the horses. Christina wrote, "Rough 'roads' inside park with big ruts that filled with rain, horrific mosquitos (and we're from SC for a baseline). Having the horses around was fantastic."
Highway noise levels: Florence RV Park sits close to I-95, creating constant traffic noise. Stuart K. noted, "This spot is so close to I95 (exit 169) that you'll both feel and hear the swoosh of passing by traffic 24/7. So, while you'll incur ease and convenience, that will come at a cost (privacy and quietude being what you will sacrifice most)."
Drainage issues: Some campgrounds in the area have drainage problems during heavy rain. Adam L. shared about Swamp Fox Campground: "Stopped here last year on the way back north from Florida. It was raining and our spot was a mud bog. Drainage was terrible in the park with many spots underwater."
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds have spotty coverage depending on your carrier. Heather at Lynches River County Park wrote, "Decent cell coverage. I stayed in site 1, there was a big clearing where I dropped the starlink - had great connection the entire visit."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Swamp Fox Campground offers a dedicated play area for children. Pilar noted in her review, "Clean and nice play ground for kids."
Nature education: Lynches River County Park features an environmental learning center perfect for educational opportunities. Trina W. shared, "We had a Cub Scout Pack campout here, and it was perfect for us. There was a noisy group off to the back, but that was the only issue."
Swimming options: Cheraw State Park Campground has a designated swimming area for children. Werner S. wrote, "At the campground you can't swim, but you can walk 10 minutes to a beachy area on the other site of the lake."
Private camping areas: Country Lane offers family-friendly camping with space for children to play safely. Owner Victoria F. explained, "Come meet our family, sit by the fire, enjoy a nice quiet time with lots of space for your kids or furbabies to run! We are fenced in on all sides and surrounded by woods!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Standing Pines RV Resort & Campground offers newly constructed RV sites. Ashley D. shared, "The dump trucks and heavy equipment just pulled out a couple weeks ago, so the campground looks like a construction zone a little bit still. However, brought three kids with me and we have had a blast!"
Level site availability: H. Cooper Black Jr. Field Trial Area provides level sites suitable for RVs. Brenda L. mentioned, "The campground has full hookups and they have made lots of improvements the last few years and most are level and shaded."
WiFi reliability: Swamp Fox Campground offers strong internet connectivity. Darlene C. noted, "The WiFi was super strong and allowed us to stream movies. For the price it was worth it."
Hookup locations: Cheraw State Park Campground offers various hookup options. Bill S. commented, "Only about 25 or so sites. All with water and electric hookups. Per did not work at our site so we had to move from our great lake view site to one next to the bath house."
