Camping near Gadsden, South Carolina includes both primitive and developed sites across diverse ecosystems ranging from swamp forests to lakefront settings. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F from June through August, making spring and fall popular camping seasons. Mosquito activity peaks from May through September, particularly in lowland areas near water.
What to do
Observe synchronous fireflies: Congaree National Park's Longleaf Campground offers a rare natural phenomenon during late spring. A camper noted, "We camped here to see the synchronous fireflies, and loved our stay! The group site was plenty big enough for all of the children, the hiking was excellent, and the fireflies were one of the most magical things I've ever seen!"
Mountain biking: Several trail systems accommodate bikers of different skill levels. At Poinsett State Park Campground, "This is a good place to stay to mountain bike, there are two trails in Poinsett and Manchester State Forest is nearby." The park offers access to trails that connect with the larger Manchester State Forest system.
Water activities: The region's lakes provide opportunities for paddling, fishing, and swimming in designated areas. Many campgrounds rent boats and kayaks, though rental services may be seasonal. A visitor to Longleaf Campground observed, "Easy walk to visitor center from campground. On the path after crossing the road, we saw the synchronous fireflies!"
What campers like
Shaded sites: The region's mature forest provides natural cooling during hot months. A camper at Sesquicentennial State Park Campground commented, "Really nice shaded campground and very reasonably priced. Clean bathhouse. Stand was unpacked but level! Staff were friendly and very welcoming."
Wildlife viewing: The area's diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife year-round. A visitor to Poinsett State Park shared, "The fireflies were very pretty and interesting. We saw other wildlife around the campground too. A lizard during a walk during the day. Many frogs during the rain at night."
Recreational facilities: Many campgrounds offer amenities beyond standard camping. At Sesquicentennial State Park, "I took a group of 8 wild middle schoolers here and we had a blast hiking the trails, boating, and unplugging for a while!" Several parks maintain playgrounds, sports fields, and community pavilions accessible to campers.
What you should know
Site selection: Campground layouts vary significantly in spacing and privacy. A camper at Cypress View Campground noted, "This is a great campground for anyone who enjoys watersports. Lake Marion is a great place for boating, kayaking, and fishing. Camp sites are mostly level and have water and a variety of electrical hookup options."
Weather impacts: The region's low-lying areas frequently flood during heavy rains. A visitor to Longleaf Campground shared, "About 300 feet from the parking lot so easy to walk into and make trips back to the car or motorcycle in my case. It's lowlands so it floods easily in heavy rains...learned this the hard way!"
Limited supplies: Many campgrounds have minimal on-site supplies. One camper observed, "Overnight guests should be prepared to gather your own wood as none is sold on site. You can also get water from the Visitor Center (which is a better drive than walk if carrying a large or multiple jugs)." Most campgrounds are within 20-30 minutes of grocery stores and camping supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Bring insect protection: Biting insects can be prevalent, especially during summer months. A camper advised, "Definitely bring a wagon for packing your stuff in and prepare to be eaten alive by deer flies everywhere you go! The heat in June is also pretty bad, so having to go back and forth out to your vehicle to bring your stuff in and out is very difficult."
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds feature significant walking distances to sites. At Weston Lake Recreation Area, "Stayed in a tent at tent site 3. Site was level and clean with water and electric, fire ring, and a picnic table. for $10 per night. There are also primitive tent sites as well for $5 per night. Lots of RV spots too!"
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer junior ranger programs and nature activities. Longleaf Campground provides access to Congaree's educational programs: "Ten site campground, all walk in. Sites 1 and 2 fairly short distance to walk. Campsites are spacious and clean. Pit toilets and solar powered device charger available in parking lot. Easy distance to access visitor center and main trails."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling. At Santee Lakes KOA, "We stayed at Santee Lake in a 37' travel trailer. Sites were tight for a rig that big but we made it work. Our site was level, others were definitely not."
Maneuverability: Some parks have tight access roads and limited turn space. An RVer at Poinsett State Park warned, "Long RVs and trailers may have trouble with the trees and turns of the campground," while another noted, "The park road is very narrow and uneven with lots of large pot holes. The road to the campground is a little better, but also very narrow."
Service availability: Hookups vary widely between parks. A visitor to Weston Lake reported, "About 31 RV sites. Onboard Ft. Jackson. Lake views. Boat rental available. Summer time swim beach. Spacious sites. No laundry at campground. Closest is about 3 miles away. Entrance road is really rough."
