Kershaw, South Carolina sits at approximately 500 feet elevation with a humid subtropical climate that features hot summers and mild winters. Annual rainfall averages 45 inches, creating lush woodland environments ideal for camping throughout most of the year. The surrounding Sandhills region offers a mix of pine forests and gentle rolling terrain that attracts both casual campers and those seeking specialized outdoor recreation.
What to Do
Trail riding opportunities: At H. Cooper Black Jr. Memorial Field Trial and Recreation Area, equestrians can access extensive trail networks. "Neat surprise. Pleasant primitive site now, overlooking ponds, meadows, forest. Fun to distantly observe horses and well trained retrievers playing and being trained," notes Phil R.
Kayaking and canoeing: Cane Creek Park offers water recreation options about 25 miles from Kershaw. Emily B. shares, "I load up my kayak once a month or so and paddle around the lake for hours. Trails, shelter areas, and bathrooms are always well taken care of."
Disc golf: Chester State Park features a championship disc golf course within an hour's drive from Kershaw. Keith K. mentions it has a "Small clean campground" with a "Championship Disc golf course" and a "very nice trail along the lake perimeter."
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Cheraw State Park maintains well-kept restrooms. MaryAnn P. reports, "The bathrooms and showers were amazingly clean and they had a giant heater you can turn on over the showers when it's cold outside!"
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the room to spread out at several nearby parks. Sara M. describes Cheraw State Park as having "Spacious sites that feel nicely private surrounded by evergreens which is a nice relief in winter to see trees with leaves."
Family activities: Sesquicentennial State Park offers child-friendly recreation options. Ruth J. notes, "I enjoy doing the trails and spotting dear. And there is a small water play area for children. They have paddle boats also."
What You Should Know
Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds in the region operate limited schedules. At Cheraw State Park, Sara M. points out, "When it isn't off season they have cheap boat rentals. Firewood is $6.50 per bundle."
Insect considerations: Horse-friendly campgrounds may have additional challenges. At Lee State Park, Swain K. cautions, "if you have never stayed with horses you can not be prepared for the flyes. they were swarms of them."
Permit requirements: Some recreation areas have specific access rules. At H. Cooper Black, John P. clarifies it's a "Large area where dog training sport hunting is permitted. Not a campground. However home to the largest rally race in the southeast!"
Weather preparedness: Electrical service can be unreliable during storms. Jeanette M. observed at Cane Creek Park, "both times we visited there was a storm and power went out for hours. Can't really do anything about that!"
Tips for Camping with Families
Free activities: Look for campgrounds with complimentary recreation. Sarah B. recommends Cane Creek Park: "The mini golf is free and a blast. The swim area is only open on Saturdays or you can drive to the day use side and be over there."
Nature education opportunities: Carowinds Camp Wilderness provides a wooded setting despite urban proximity. Gus S. explains, "Wooded perimeter so you feel you are away from the city."
Group camping options: Some parks accommodate larger family gatherings. Trina W. shares her experience at Cheraw State Park: "We stayed in the camp juniper group area this time, but have camped in the regular campground in the past."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple parks offer chances to see native animals. At Sesquicentennial State Park, Clean Slate D. notes it's "Quiet, lots of birds in the spring. Easy drive to Congaree, which we highly recommend."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: RV campers need stable parking. Mitch M. reports Lee State Park "Sites were gravel and level. Bath house were clean and well maintained."
Hookup availability: Most equestrian camping areas near Kershaw, South Carolina provide essential connections. At H. Cooper Black, Brenda L. notes, "The campground has full hookups and they have made lots of improvements the last few years and most are level and shaded."
Space for horse trailers: Specialized campgrounds accommodate larger rigs with additional equipment. Brenda L. describes H. Cooper Black: "If you have horses they have campsites with corrals at your back door that you can also rent. Many horse trails for riding as well."
Seasonal pricing variations: Off-season camping can offer significant savings. Sara M. recommends Cheraw State Park during winter: "Super cheap. We stayed four nights for under $100. 30/50 hookups and water. No sewer but very close dump station in campground."
