Francis Marion National Forest offers primitive tent campsites near Goose Creek, South Carolina within a coastal plain ecosystem. The forest spans nearly 260,000 acres with elevations rarely exceeding 50 feet above sea level. After rainfall, campers should prepare for standing water in low-lying areas, as drainage can be slow in this flat terrain characteristic of South Carolina's lowcountry.
What to do
Hiking the Palmetto Trail: The Swampfox Passage runs through Francis Marion National Forest, providing opportunities for both day hikes and backpacking. "Hiking is great. There are some areas where after rain it becomes 'pools' of water making staying dry a bit difficult. The trail is being added to. At some point in the future, you can start at the ocean and walk across the state to the border of North Carolina and Georgia," notes a camper at Francis Marion National Forest.
Visit historic sites: Take a short drive from your campsite to explore local history. "Something fun to do is to visit (gotta drive there) the Halfway Creek Church, constructed in 1941. You can also do a hike on one of the trails here," suggests a visitor who camped at Halfway Creek.
Swimming opportunities: During summer months, several areas provide cooling relief from the heat. "The children had a chance to go swimming and they love that. They learned a lot of things about nature and did some life skills," reports one grandmother about her camping trip with family.
What campers like
Privacy options: Campers appreciate the flexibility to choose between established sites and more secluded locations. "My buddies and I drove our trucks off the normal road to find ultimate privacy. We didn't stay on a set camp ground, with no cell service and no one bothering us we got to simply relax."
Wildlife viewing: The forest hosts diverse ecosystems supporting numerous animal species. "Nature is abundant, both flaura and fauna. So bug spray is recommended to the unfortunate of us that are preyed upon by mosquitoes and the like. Also my dogs love it and it's a great energy burner for them."
Accessibility of campsites: Many tent campsites in the forest offer convenient access while maintaining a natural setting. "It's right on the trail, it also allows for you to drive right up to the campground and park your car, set up camp and then head out for a hike. It has some spots closer to the parking area and others back away from it by a couple hundred feet."
What you should know
Water availability: Bring adequate water supplies as existing sources may be unreliable. "There used to be water available but that spicket is well past it 'sell-by-date'. The closest store is a 10-minute drive."
Wildlife awareness: Be prepared for potential snake encounters, especially during warm months. "Snakes are probably the worst thing you'll come across, however most want to get away from people unless they feel a need to defend. So, keep your eyes open, I've stumbled across a couple laying on the trail just trying to get sun and warm up."
First-come, first-served camping: Some areas do not accept reservations. "It's a free campground, but there are no water and no toilets. You can park in a lot just outside the camping area--some people sleep in their cars there. This site does not take reservations, so it's first come-first served."
Tips for camping with families
Pack essential supplies: Due to limited facilities, bring everything needed for your stay. "Bring lots of water and bug spray and some trash bags to pack your trash/T.P. out!"
Consider open camping areas: For families with young children, the more visible areas might be preferable. "The actual camping area is wide open and grassy, but if you prefer more privacy, you can hike in a bit and pick a spot. We stayed in the open area because we were a big group."
Be prepared for varied social experiences: Campground atmosphere can change depending on other visitors. "The people next to us were drunk and they had dogs. Well the people were drunk, they cursed... it was the first time ever going there and I will not go back to that location again."
Tips from RVers
Overnight options: Some areas are suitable for quick stays while traveling. "I love this spot. Its right on the trail, it also allows for you to drive right up to the campground and park your car, set up camp and then head out for a hike."
Truck camping alternative: Vehicle-based camping provides flexibility for exploration. "We stayed in our trucks that night. The next morning after we made breakfast we explored for hours, in our trucks and by foot. It was absolutely amazing."
