The Upstate region near Greenville, South Carolina sits at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet. The area features a humid subtropical climate with moderate year-round temperatures. Cabin camping opportunities exist within a 45-minute drive radius of Greenville, with peak reservation demands occurring from May through October when temperatures typically range from 60-90°F.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Paris Mountain State Park provides extensive mountain biking opportunities with dedicated weekend trails. "This is a beautiful park, with lots to do, and in close proximity to the endless supply of activities that can be found in the Greenville area," notes a visitor to Paris Mountain State Park Campground.
Waterfall hikes: The region features numerous accessible waterfall trails within short driving distances. A visitor to Table Rock State Park Campground shares, "There are many waterfalls in the area and many places to hike. If you like to hike there are two strenuous hikes in the park from 4-8 miles long and steep climbs that offer breathtaking views."
Lake activities: Several state parks provide lake access for swimming, fishing, and paddling. "Lake Jocassee state park in Devils Fork is awesome for the family! Lots of water activities. The area is clean," reports a camper who visited Devils Fork State Park.
What campers like
Lake views: Many cabin sites provide direct water access or panoramic views. At Mile Creek County Park, "Each campsite has wonderful views of the water. There is a playground by the entrance and near the farthest campsites as well," according to a recent visitor.
Trail proximity: Cabins often provide immediate access to hiking and biking trails. A camper at Davidson River Campground noted, "Walking trails surround the CG and high quality mountain bike trails nearby. The sites themselves vary in privacy and space but overall acceptable."
Clean facilities: Most cabin locations maintain well-serviced bathhouses and common areas. At Pine Ridge Campground, visitors consistently mention the upkeep: "The bathhouse was clean and laundry facility great! We will definitely be back!"
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peak season cabin reservations at popular locations typically require 3-6 month advance planning. For Devils Fork State Park Campground, a camper advises simply: "Reserve well in advance."
Site topography: Mountain locations often feature uneven terrain that may affect comfort and access. At Paris Mountain State Park, one visitor cautions: "Some sites are very uneven due to mountain side. Would not stay again because we were so unlevel our refrigerator wouldn't work."
Kitchen provisions: Cabin kitchens range from basic to fully equipped. At Solitude Pointe Cabins & RV Park, a guest highlights, "They are cozy, comfy cabins. Everything to cook and clean in the cabins is all provided!"
Wi-Fi availability: Internet connectivity varies widely between properties, with some offering reliable service for remote work. One camper at Mile Creek County Park noted, "Had 5G access entire time and easy to do business as digital nomads."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation spots: Identify lake access points with gradual entries for younger children. A visitor to Orchard Lake Campground shares, "We stayed 2 nights. We went kayaking and swimming daily. There is a slide in the middle of the pond that my son loved."
Evening activities: Campgrounds with game rooms provide rainy-day alternatives. One family at Orchard Lake Campground noted, "When it rained the game room had a movie on and lots to do inside."
Playground locations: Several cabin campgrounds feature multiple play areas. As one Mile Creek County Park visitor observed, "We had 5 spots in a culdesac surrounded by the lake on all sides. The only regret we had was that we didn't stay longer! Bath houses were conveniently located. Lots of hills so it was a little hard for the little kids to get around on bikes."
Primitive camping options: For families seeking more seclusion, some parks offer hike-in cabin or tent options. A camper at Keowee-Toxaway State Park reported, "Our little family of five did a 4-mile hike into a primitive camping spot, across the water from a golf course and spent the weekend!"
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Mountain roads and campground entrances can present difficulties for larger rigs. At Davidson River Campground, a visitor advises, "This place is packed most all of the summer now so you don't want to show up without a spot."
Site positioning: Concrete pads provide the most stable foundation in mountainous terrain. At Solitude Pointe Cabins & RV Park, a camper notes, "The sites are on level cement pads which makes set up easy. It is on a steep hill, but the camp hosts escort you to the site and help navigate your camper in if needed."
Power reliability: Electrical infrastructure varies between campgrounds. One RVer at Keowee-Toxaway State Park reported, "Twice in one week this campground experienced a complete and total power outage each of which lasted for hours."
