Best Camping near Gadsden, SC

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Gadsden, SC has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Gadsden, SC (63)

    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground

    1. Poinsett State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    118 Photos
    88 Saves
    Wedgefield, South Carolina

    In the High Hills of Santee, where the South Carolina Sandhills of the Midlands region meet the coastal plain region, you’ll find Poinsett State Park. Called the "mountains of the midlands," this mixed ecosystem yields a high degree of biodiversity and some of the most unique natural sightings in the park system, especially along the Palmetto trail which winds through the Manchester State Forest.

    The High Hills of Santee are dotted with the hiking and biking trails that wind through the park–some of which connect to the Palmetto Trail that leads hikers through the Manchester State Forest. Poinsett’s 10-acre lake makes for a serene setting, and can be used for fishing and johnboat rentals. The park also offers campsites, a fishing pond, a coquina bathhouse built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, pre-revolutionary grist mill ruins and rustic cabins.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park

    2. Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park

    28 Reviews
    100 Photos
    4 Saves
    Gadsden, South Carolina

    Overview

    This campground is located just off the park entrance road, approximately __ mile before the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, in a mixed pine/hardwood upland forest. This campground is located at a higher elevation than the floodplain and is not subject to the flooding events that occur regularly in other parts of the park.__

    Recreation

    Campers with reservations at the Longleaf Campground have easy access to the park___s 27 miles of hiking trails. Campers can reach the Harry Hampton Visitor Center by car or by hiking on the Longleaf Trail. At the visitor center you can access the Boardwalk and find information on other trails to plan your trip into the old-growth forest of Congaree National Park. Those who would like to explore and experience Congaree via canoe or kayak can launch from one of the park's two landings, located between 5-10 minutes by car from the campground.__

    Facilities

    Campers with reservations at the Longleaf Campground have easy access to the park___s 27 miles of hiking trails. Campers can reach the Harry Hampton Visitor Center by car or by hiking on the Longleaf Trail. At the visitor center you can access the Boardwalk and find information on other trails to plan your trip into the old-growth forest of Congaree National Park. Those who would like to explore and experience Congaree via canoe or kayak can launch from one of the park's two landings, located between 5-10 minutes by car from the campground.__

    Natural Features

    Located in a mixed pine/hardwood upland forest, campsites are surrounded by pines and other trees. Campsites are generally in shade for large parts of the day. An open field in the middle of the campground is available for use by campers throughout the day, and this location offers campers excellent opportunities for observing wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and the occasional southern fox squirrel.__

    Nearby Attractions

    Congaree National Park is located near many attractions including state parks, forests and parks. The city of Columbia is a short drive from the park and offers access to many attractions including museums, city parks and shopping.

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground

    4. Sesquicentennial State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    75 Photos
    122 Saves
    State Park, South Carolina

    Camping Information: Each site is packed sand and has individual water and 30 amp electrical hookups. 17 sites accommodate RV's up to 35 feet, others up to 30 feet. 14 sites are pull through. The campground is convenient to restroom facilities with hot showers. Nine sites are newly-improved. Amenities include: a large, level parking area, a campfire ring with grill and a lantern hook. Four sites are equipped with tent pads. These pads provide a sand surface and can accommodate tents up to 10 x 10 ft. Loop 1 is closed seasonally. Loop 2 is open year round. Primitive Group Area: A primitive group camping area is ideal for organized groups up to 50 people. (An organized group is defined as a group that holds regular meetings and has a lead officer or elected/appointed officials.) Central water is available. Walking distant to restrooms. Showers not available. Reservations are accepted. To make a primitive group camping reservation, contact the park directly. Minimum rate is $11-13.50 which allows up to 10 campers. The rate increases by $5-6.25 increments for each additional five campers up to a total of fifty campers.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Santee Lakes KOA

    5. Santee Lakes KOA

    26 Reviews
    59 Photos
    124 Saves
    Santee, South Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground

    6. Dreher Island State Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    232 Photos
    297 Saves
    Chapin, South Carolina
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area

    7. Weston Lake Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    26 Photos
    22 Saves
    Columbia, South Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $33 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rig Friendly RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rig Friendly RV Resort

    9. Big Rig Friendly RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    2 Photos
    8 Saves
    Cayce, South Carolina

    Columbia’s finest and most convenient RV Resort. Located only 3 miles from I-26, I-77 minutes from I-20, Downtown Columbia, the University of South Carolina and Lake Murray. Full hookups, full amenities, and large pull-thru sites. Open all year. Shaded sites with large yards.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
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Showing results 1-10 of 63 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Gadsden

Recent Reviews in Gadsden

356 Reviews of 63 Gadsden Campgrounds


  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmetto Shores RV Resort
    Dec. 6, 2024

    Palmetto Shores RV Resort

    Lovely park

    We both really enjoyed our stay. The dogs loved the dog park and I appreciated having bags to pick up after them. We had trash pickup and sites were easily navigable. Big park with a nice views of the water. They had a play ground, cabins, games. Just a very woodsy cozy place. Would stay again.

  • Kim L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park

    Small campground, walk in only

    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.

  • Chris C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Nov. 12, 2024

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Great 4 days

    Great camping fire temps. Weather was rainy towards the end but enjoyed the stay. Our site #3 was a pull through. A little to close to main road (about 6’) but that was the only issue otherwise not much to complain about. Water was cold and crystal clear.

  • Katrin M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Nov. 3, 2024

    Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park

    Big campground on the lake

    We camped here over the weekend with the pups. The state park has 2 different campgrounds. We decided for the Lakeshore one. It's pretty big with over 100 campsites. They have the usual amenities like fire pit, and picnic table with bench. Our was private, but the sites in the middle are not. The bathhouse was very clean with nice hot showers. The park has several trails, a visitor center, cabins on the water, at least 2 boat ramps with a bait shop. There are no trash cans near the campsites, there is one big dumpster at the entrance of the campground. It's about 1.30h to Folly Beach. We would definitely camp here again.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rig Friendly RV Resort
    Oct. 26, 2024

    Big Rig Friendly RV Resort

    Beautiful and spacious

    Great location! This RV Resort has great amenities and staff along with their location! Awesome gym and club house plus beautiful pool! Staff are very friendly and welcoming! Check them out!

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rig Friendly RV Resort
    Oct. 26, 2024

    Big Rig Friendly RV Resort

    Great campground!

    We found this campground while traveling through Columbia SC and made a late evening reservation. We were able to reserve online and even pick our camping spot. It has full hookups and we were able to find the spot easily even in the dark. The owner called to make sure we had no questions and to explain where to pick up our packet. She was very nice and made us feel welcomed. It appears that they are a new campground and will have even more amenities soon. It was also very quiet. We will definitely be staying here on our subsequent trips through SC. I highly recommend this campground!

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Oak RV Park
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Sandy Oak RV Park

    5 ⭐️ Hospitality— Great RV Park

    We called with very short notice looking for an overnight site. Though the campground was booked, the owners so graciously allowed us to park in the overflow parking which included water & electric. We even arrived at 10pm, and they were waiting at the gate for us! We were so pleased with the owner’s generosity and hospitality. We will definitely be back to take advantage of the swimming pond, paddle boats, fishing & playground!

  • Cindy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Beautiful and Peaceful

    This place offers lakefront views and surrounded by tall trees. The bathrooms are air conditioned and the water is hot. The only problem I had was the cleaning schedule of the women’s bathroom seemed to take place around 7:30ish in the morning.

  • Christina G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Aug. 25, 2024

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Beautiful Site

    Stayed for 2 nights at Tent Site 4 in early May and had wonderful weather! There was a big storm for about an hour after we set up camp, but the site drained well and it wasn't too buggy despite being right on the water. Loved the walkability, super easy walk on a slight decline from our parking space next to the stairs/path to the site. Two good spots for setting up a hammock. Loved watching the birds and occasional fish. Water and electric available and functioning on site. Quick walk to bathroom/shower.

    Overall a great experience!

  • Joy K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Outside Inn Campground
    May. 25, 2024

    Outside Inn Campground

    Perfect overnight stay

    This was the perfect place to stop for an overnight stay to break up the drive to FL. Our full hook-up site was almost perfectly level with a fire ring and picnic table. We stayed in a back-in site, which we were grateful for since they are all in the shade. Our grandson loved feeding the goats and donkey so make sure you bring some fruit and/or veggies. Claire was very communicative prior to our arrival and even stopped by our site after we settled in to see if we needed anything. They are expanding by adding a bathhouse and possibly more sites in the future. They have weekly movie nights and a couple of corn hole boards. I believe there's a walking trail as well but we didn't have a chance to check it out since we were in and out so quickly. If we had to list a con, I guess the only thing would be the bugs....but that's typical of the south in the summer so we were already prepared. We will definitely be stopping by again for a longer stay.

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Outside Inn Campground
    May. 18, 2024

    Outside Inn Campground

    Serene

    Country setting in a great little RV park that is just getting started. Full hook-ups. Easy access and parking. Owners were very hospitable and available. Sweet animals and love the farm feel. Definitely plan to stay again.

  • Tracie S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    May. 12, 2024

    Lake Wateree State Park Campground

    Our Favorite Getaway

    This is one of our favorite spots! We can boat, fish, ride our golf cart, hang out by the fire and just enjoy the moment. It also has wonderful handicap accommodations. Hands down one of our favorites!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    May. 11, 2024

    Poinsett State Park Campground

    Great camp site!

    We stayed here for our son’s first birthday, in campsite 30! It was beautiful and we felt like we had plenty of privacy. Our site had a trail attached to the back of it which was really nice for hiking and it was perfect distance from the bathroom! On the topic of the bathroom, the toilets were CLEAN! And I mean we were there for 24 hours and the bathroom was cleaned at least twice. Really nice, they might look a little scary on the outside though but don’t mind that any bit.

    For people that love hammocks, site 29 (right next to ours) has a bunch of perfect hammock trees. If we go again we will try to stay in that spot! Great place to stay.

  • Chad L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wateree Lake RV Park & Marina
    May. 4, 2024

    Wateree Lake RV Park & Marina

    Just Right

    This location has 2 RV lots. Riverside is heavily wooded which provides a ton of shade on the hot summer days. Taylor Creek is newer with less trees providing lots of open space and great for Solar regeneration. Both sites are very clean and well maintained. Just a short walk to the lake.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Oak RV Park
    May. 3, 2024

    Sandy Oak RV Park

    Quick stop for the night

    Needed a quick stop and contacted them last minute. They had a pull thru spot and were great at accommodating us. Shower, bathroom and laundry. Wow!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Outside Inn Campground
    Apr. 30, 2024

    Outside Inn Campground

    Fun and relaxing!

    Had a one night stay. New hookups, easy access and being right next to the farm animals was very fun! The rooster was pretty expressive overnight too!

  • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alston Trailhead
    Apr. 24, 2024

    Alston Trailhead

    Nice free spot

    We enjoyed this free trailhead parking. No bathroom, and the train only woke us up once in the night. Only one other van there with us, so very quiet and peaceful. Lovely walk on the Palmetto trail in the morning. There are also “walk-in” campsites right behind the trailhead signs in the trees.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Mar. 13, 2024

    Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park

    Small and peaceful under the pines

    We stopped heading south and north along I-95 to and from Florida.  Very easy off and on I-95.  Plenty of available spaces in off-season.  The campground is small and quiet.  Camp Host was very helpful. Sites were spaced reasonably far apart but there is no privacy between.  Not all sites have a water view, but most appeared fairly level. Not all sites have sewer access.  Our only complaint was lots of smoke from campfires and grills. Would stay again.

  • Paul R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Mar. 1, 2024

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Beautiful Lakeside

    Stayed at TENT site 13. It sits with two other tent sites on a small peninsula at the bottom of Dreher Island State Park. It’s a nice large site with a large tent pad. There quite a few good trees to hang a hammock, which I camped in. Absolutely gorgeous sunrise, sunset, and when I was there the moon was full.

  • Nicole C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rig Friendly RV Resort
    Jan. 30, 2024

    Big Rig Friendly RV Resort

    Really nice place

    This place was well thought out when it was being built, lots of space, great level sites, nice dog park. Fitness center and laundry are new and nice.

  • Lynn M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Outside Inn Campground
    Jan. 16, 2024

    Outside Inn Campground

    Awesome Place to Camp

    Our stay at Outside Inn Campground was truly awesome! The sites are very nice, easy access, and they also have"buddy sites" for when you are traveling with others. The owners (Chris& Clair), their daughters (Macy and Caroline), and the varous animals were great! We definitely recommend every RVer add this place to their list!

  • Kristen S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Dec. 7, 2023

    Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park

    Peaceful, good trails

    We were at site 46, which is near the entrance and the camp host. Short walk to the bathhouse directly behind. Site has good trees for a hammock and near a path down to the lake for fishing/picnic/swimming. Beware there is a sharp drop off across from the site, so make sure whoever is backing in has a spotter out front.

  • Ed C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Outside Inn Campground
    Nov. 26, 2023

    Outside Inn Campground

    A great place to Camp for a night or longer.

    My family spent 8 days at Outside Inn Campground in Santee SC. This Campground is now our Campground #1.

    This is a new Campground that was developed with the Campers in mind. 

    The owners are hands-on in the operation and customer service, not necessarily in that order. 

    The sites are well placed throughout the Campground. They have established trails throughout the woods.

    On of the main attractions are the animals: cows, ducks, chickens,  goats, a donkey, turkeys and roosters.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Nov. 1, 2023

    Lake Wateree State Park Campground

    Nice campground

    Nice campground right on the lake. The nicest shower house I have ever seen. This is the standard we base all other campgrounds. Staff and everyone around were super nice

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jolly Acres RV Park & Storage
    Oct. 27, 2023

    Jolly Acres RV Park & Storage

    Very quaint little campground.

    Stopped on the way to Maggie Valley NC. Nice half way spot from Fl. Full hookups available. Our 35 ft rv fit perfect in the spot. They are dirt/sand sites. The camp store wasn’t opened when we were there for the 1 night. Right beside a cow farm to look at. A fishing pond is available but the water was super murky. Everyone was friendly. Fire pit available. Would recommend. Super cool playground with an awesome swing. See video. 😊



Guide to Gadsden

Camping near Gadsden, South Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: Lake Murray is a great spot for fishing and boating. One visitor at Dreher Island State Park Campground mentioned, "We spent 90% of our time on the lake swimming, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and enjoying one of the best lakes we’ve ever experienced."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Poinsett State Park Campground. A camper shared, "There are plenty of hiking trails and a beautiful lake right in front of the visitor center."
  • Wildlife Watching: At Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park, one reviewer noted, "Great for a day adventure, or exercise," highlighting the area's natural beauty and wildlife.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Lake Wateree State Park Campground said, "The nicest shower house I have ever seen. This is the standard we base all other campgrounds."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the park rangers. One camper at Colleton State Park Campground remarked, "The rangers are very helpful and the camp host was terrific."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A review for Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park highlighted, "Nice campground. Campground has hiking/biking trails. Lake views from our site."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Givhans Ferry State Park Campground, have limited amenities. A camper noted, "There is nothing to do at the park or anywhere close by."
  • Cell Service: Expect limited or no cell service in some areas. One visitor at Aiken State Park Campground mentioned, "Absolutely no cell service at campsite."
  • Privacy Concerns: Some sites can be close together, which might affect privacy. A camper at Santee Lakes KOA said, "Very crowded and was a one-night stop for many RVs!!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. At Sesquicentennial State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Cute park and splash pad."
  • Plan Activities: Bring along games and outdoor toys. A family at Dreher Island State Park Campground enjoyed watching kids swim and play, saying, "It seems that everyone had a kayak, a raft, a boat, or some kind of flotation device."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A camper at Cypress View Campground noted, "The campground is small and quiet," making it a perfect spot for family bonding.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Lake Wateree State Park Campground said, "Site #1 on the lake. Level paved driveway lots of shade."
  • Bring Leveling Blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A camper at Santee Lakes KOA mentioned, "We did not even have to bring out our leveling blocks."
  • Plan for Tight Roads: Be cautious of tight roads in some campgrounds. A visitor at Givhans Ferry State Park Campground noted, "The sites are not level and the ground is almost sandy."

Camping around Gadsden, SC, offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakes to family-friendly parks. Whether you're tent camping or RVing, there's something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions