Tent campsites near Irmo, South Carolina provide access to unique forest ecosystems in both national park and forest lands. Camping options range from sites that flood during heavy rains to higher elevation options in surrounding areas. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing, requiring appropriate seasonal gear.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: Congaree National Park offers exceptional wildlife viewing beyond the boardwalk trail. According to one camper at Longleaf Campground, "We saw other wildlife around the campground too. A lizard during a walk during the day. Many frogs during the rain at night."
Cycling routes: The roads surrounding Sedalia Campground in the Sumter National Forest provide excellent terrain for road cyclists. One visitor notes, "If you're a road cyclist this is heaven, and some decent trail riding down to the lakes."
Palmetto Trail access: Sedalia Campground serves as an overnight stopping point for Palmetto Trail hikers. A reviewer explained, "The Palmetto Trail runs through it, so if you are thru-hiking, this would be a good place to camp for the night."
Hunting access: National forest campgrounds provide strategic bases for seasonal hunting. According to a Sedalia Campground visitor, "Hunters use it alot. Fall deer hunters spring thurkey hunting. Often gets packed."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: The secluded nature of forest camping near Irmo appeals to those seeking peace. A camper at Longleaf Campground shared, "This one was a huge relief. Sites were spread out, but also the vibe was less 'party all night' and more 'sleep and then explore the park during the day.' Exactly my kind of vibe!"
Convenient amenities: Despite primitive settings, some campgrounds offer basic facilities. A visitor to Sedalia noted, "I was glad to see that it had running water and one of the cleanest pit toilets I think I have ever seen."
Level sites: Terrain can vary significantly between campgrounds. The sites at Blythewood Acres are noted for being "level and waiting for your RV" with "Water, sewer, power and dump station on site."
Uncrowded camping: Many sites remain relatively empty even during peak seasons. One camper at Sedalia Campground remarked, "It's been quiet the times that we've been there."
What you should know
Site proximity to parking: Walk-in distances vary significantly at different campgrounds. At Longleaf Campground, one camper reported, "Ten site campground, all walk in. Sites 1 and 2 fairly short distance to walk."
Insect protection essential: Bug activity intensifies during warmer months. A visitor warned, "Bring bug spray!" while another mentioned being "eaten alive by deer flies everywhere you go."
Terrain challenges: Uneven ground can make setup difficult. A camper at Bluff Hike In Campground must hike approximately one mile from the parking area to reach campsites.
Seasonal flooding: Low-lying areas frequently experience water issues. One camper reported, "The first night got a lot of rain and storms and several of the campers from sites farther back left saying they were flooded out."
Basic services: Amenities vary by location. A Longleaf visitor noted, "There's a two-stall pit toilet in the parking lot and trash/recycling cans. Att signal was 1 bar, no signal problems."
Tips for camping with families
Equipment transportation: Consider bringing a wagon for gear when using walk-in sites. A camper shared, "If you don't want to walk far, get campsite #1. It's right next to the parking lot and closest to the bathrooms."
Communal areas: Some campgrounds feature shared spaces for group activities. At Sedalia Campground, "There is a spacious grassy area in the middle of the campsites for whatever activities you want to engage in. There is also a large, separate grassy area for group camping."
Nearby supplies: Local stores provide essential items. According to one visitor, "There is a convenience store with sandwiches, ice, beer, and groceries in Gadsden 8 min away which was convenient."
Ranger responsiveness: Park staff address safety concerns promptly. One camper who reported an uncomfortable encounter noted, "I appreciated how responsive the rangers were regarding our concern."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds near Irmo primarily accommodate tent camping. Blythewood Acres is one of few locations with RV hookups, offering both water and sewer connections.
Size restrictions: Large rigs face significant limitations. A camper noted most forest service campgrounds are best suited for "dry camping if you are in a small RV."
Solar charging: Some campgrounds offer modern amenities despite primitive settings. At Longleaf, one camper mentioned, "Pit toilets and solar powered device charger available in parking lot."
