Camping options near Inman, South Carolina range from accessible RV parks to more primitive tent sites. The area sits at approximately 850 feet above sea level in the foothills region, with multiple campgrounds within a 35-mile radius. Summer temperatures typically reach highs in the upper 80s while winter nighttime lows can drop to the low 30s, making spring and fall popular camping seasons.
What to do
Water activities on mountain lakes: At Orchard Lake Campground, campers can enjoy kayaking, canoeing and swimming in the pond with built-in attractions. As one visitor noted, "We went kayaking and swimming daily. There is a slide in the middle of the pond that my son loved."
Mountain biking trails: The Davidson River Campground serves as an excellent base for mountain bikers. "The campground was quiet and well shaded... Located right inside Pisgah National forest this campground is perfectly set for all adventures. If you're looking to ride the mtb trails you're in luck. They start literally across the davidson river from the campground."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access, with many providing rentals if you don't have your own gear. A camper at Davidson River Campground mentioned, "Plenty of Biking in area and close to the parkway. Close to all the waterfalls in the area and if you forget anything, Brevard NC is only a mile away."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Pine Ridge Campground consistently receives praise for its maintenance standards. One visitor commented, "The bath houses and park are always really clean. Bath house clean and laundry facility great!" Another noted, "This was a wonderful campground. Very nice management. Beautiful restrooms kept clean and had a combination lock on them."
Shaded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural tree cover at Croft State Park Campground. According to one review, "Spent many weeks here over the past few years. Its a clean and well maintained park with beautiful trails and lake." This natural setting provides relief during hot summer months.
Winter camping accessibility: Several campgrounds in the region remain open year-round with varying levels of services. A winter visitor to Croft State Park reported, "Our first camping, and in December, no less. Few campers, but spacious sites. I collect local fallen tree limbs to burn. Lots of them around! Great hiking trails."
What you should know
Site levelness varies significantly: Many campsites in the foothills region require leveling equipment. A camper at Paris Mountain State Park Campground observed, "Liked the campground. No amenities per day except bathroom/showers. Nice large sites but very unlevel due to mountain side. Would not stay again because we were so unlevel our refrigerator wouldn't work."
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. Availability at the more highly-rated campgrounds is limited without advance planning, particularly for weekend stays from April through October.
Campground noise levels: Sound carries in valley locations. One camper at Emberglow Outdoor Resort noted, "It was so noisy with kids and dogs echoing in the valley, and we could even hear the neighboring cabins talking while sitting around their campfire."
Tips for camping with families
Look for on-site activities: Emberglow Outdoor Resort offers multiple recreation options. As one visitor shared, "Great place for kids with jump pad, swingset, slides, climbing dome, pool, a creek to explore, hiking trails, and more! We planned to explore the area but ended up staying the entire time in the campground."
Consider campgrounds with weekend programming: Some locations offer structured activities. A visitor to Emberglow noted, "There was a food truck on Friday night and a band on Saturday night," while another mentioned, "Emberglow hosted a 5K. It was a great time."
Check water feature accessibility: Lakes and streams provide natural entertainment for children. One camper at Croft State Park explained, "We enjoyed the short hike to wade in the stream!" while another mentioned, "Nice hiking around lake, fishing, and boat rental. Saw some turtles while paddling."
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow approach roads. An RVer staying at Paris Mountain State Park reported, "The road through the park back to the campground is pretty narrow at some points - we don't know how we would have managed if we had met another RV! We have a 31' Class A and we managed fine."
Site length considerations: Always verify actual site dimensions before booking. A review of Spacious Skies Peach Haven mentioned, "Manager was clueless of the requirements for a 32 foot class C with a tow vehicle. Tried to put us in two different campsite that a mini ultra lite would have found adequate."
Sewer hookup placement: At some campgrounds, hookup locations may require extra equipment. One RVer reported, "The sewer outlet at our site was placed in the back of our site and I needed a hose about 35' long to reach it."
