Francis Marion National Forest provides primitive tent camping opportunities across 258,000 acres near Hollywood, South Carolina. The forest features flat terrain with numerous wetlands that can flood after heavy rainfall, creating unique ecological conditions for campers. Tent camping areas are situated within coastal pine forests where campers can experience the distinctive low country ecosystem with its mix of longleaf pines, cypress trees, and abundant wildlife including deer, turkey, and various bird species.
What to do
Truck exploration routes: Francis Marion National Forest offers off-road adventures for properly equipped vehicles. "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... The next morning after we made breakfast we explored for hours, in our trucks and by foot," shares Matt W. from Francis Marion National Forest.
Beach trips: Tent campers at Hollywood sites can plan day trips to nearby beaches. One visitor at Francis Marion noted, "the beach was phenomenal the ice cream store that they have there was great," making it worth the short drive from the forest campgrounds.
Trail hiking: The Palmetto Trail system runs through the camping areas with ongoing expansion. "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," explains Caleb J., noting that this section features "flat walking with some minor up and over terrain."
What campers like
Privacy options: Halfway Creek Campground in Francis Marion National Forest offers both open and secluded camping styles. "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," notes Courtney B., explaining the layout that accommodates different camping preferences.
Wildlife encounters: The abundant natural ecosystem draws nature enthusiasts. "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," reports Caleb, who also mentions that his dogs enjoy the environment.
Historical sites: Local camping provides access to cultural landmarks. "Something fun to do is to visit (gotta drive there) the Halfway Creek Church, constructed in 1941," suggests one tent camper who appreciated the historical context during their Hollywood camping trip.
What you should know
Water availability: Bring sufficient water supplies when tent camping near Hollywood. "There used to be water available but that spicket is well past its 'sell-by-date'. The closest store is a 10-minute drive," warns Caleb J. about conditions at the trailhead campgrounds.
Weather conditions: Flash flooding can occur quickly in this low-lying region. One camper reported, "the first night there was a flash flood," which significantly impacted their experience at the campground.
Wildlife awareness: Snake encounters are possible but manageable with proper precautions. "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," advises a regular camper at Francis Marion.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: The tent camping areas provide natural learning environments. One grandparent shared that during their weeklong trip, "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."
Pack-out preparation: Teach children about leave-no-trace principles at primitive sites. "Bring lots of water and bug spray and some trash bags to pack your trash/T.P. out!" recommends Courtney B. about camping at Halfway Creek, where no disposal services are available.
Seasonal timing: Early fall offers the best conditions for family tent camping near Hollywood. Summer heat and humidity can be intense, while winter brings cooler temperatures that may require more substantial camping gear for children's comfort.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most Francis Marion National Forest camping areas have minimal RV infrastructure. Electric hookups are available at select locations, but water hookups are rare, requiring self-sufficiency.
Access restrictions: Large RVs face challenges navigating forest roads to tent camping areas. The campsites are generally not big-rig friendly, with narrow access roads that work better for smaller camper vans and pop-ups rather than full-sized motorhomes or fifth wheels.
Alternative parking: Some tent campers with vehicles find creative solutions. "You can park in a lot just outside the camping area--some people sleep in their cars there," notes Courtney B. about Halfway Creek's arrangements for those with small RVs who prefer staying near their vehicles.
