Camping sites near Pomaria, South Carolina spread across the Piedmont region at elevations ranging from 300-500 feet above sea level. The area features a mix of hardwood forests and pine stands surrounding the numerous waterways, with fall foliage typically peaking in late October to early November. Winter camping offers a quieter experience with average daytime temperatures in the 50s-60s°F, while spring brings wildflowers and more moderate conditions.
What to Do
Paddling opportunities: Dreher Island State Park offers excellent kayaking and paddleboarding on Lake Murray's 50,000 acres. "My daughter and I, as well as the family who joined us, spent 90% of our time on the lake swimming, paddle-boarding, kayaking and enjoying one of the best lakes we've ever experienced," reports one visitor.
Hiking trails: Explore the extensive trail system behind Broad River Campground. "There are a bunch of trails behind the campground. I don't think a lot of people knew the scope of how extensive the trail system was - but it was really pretty back there and we explored and found a lot of beautiful little places," notes a camper.
Wildlife viewing: The Sumter National Forest area offers excellent opportunities for spotting local wildlife. "We love staying at this campground, you will see deer, you can go fishing, swimming hiking. It has a little something for everyone," shares a Dreher Island camper.
What Campers Like
Lakefront camping: Lake Greenwood State Park offers prime waterfront sites. "Lakefront sites are well worth the extra cost. Campsites are a bit tight, but the lakefront sites have great views," notes one camper. Most sites are shaded and include fire pits.
Affordable options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the value of Brick House Campground in Sumter National Forest. "Easy access from I26. Spent a week here and really enjoying it. Has 21 spots. All have level gravel pads, fire rings with grill bars... 5.00 to me is great for the peace and quiet," one visitor shares.
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the maintenance at area campgrounds. "Very quiet and very well maintained!! Clean and friendly people camping in the winter time," reports a Lake Greenwood State Park visitor, while another adds, "Paved campsites. Clean bath houses. Nice shores, not too rocky. No red clay."
What You Should Know
Train noise: Some camping locations experience railroad disruption. At Alston Trailhead, "The only problem is the train. It woke us up at least 4 times last night. You can see the train from your campsite," warns one camper. Another notes, "This place is nice and quiet. Except for being snuggled up to a train track."
Site selection strategies: Tent campers should research site surfaces carefully. "If you are into tent camping, you will have to pitch the tent on gravel or pavement," notes one Lake Greenwood visitor. At Dreher Island, one camper recommends "T-4 through T-7, where there's 4 platforms perfectly set-up for large tents... and T-11 through T-14, which are nothing except 'pure tent camping bliss.'"
Weather precautions: Strong winds can affect lakeside campsites. "If you are camping here with a tent, you'll want to stake your abode down with as many lines as you quite possibly can. Ultimately, we tied our cabin tent down with more than 20 lines," advises a Dreher Island camper.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Sesquicentennial State Park offers excellent facilities for children. "I took a group of 8 wild middle schoolers here and we had a blast hiking the trails, boating, and unplugging for a while!" reports one visitor. Another mentions "a splash park for kids and a lake for boating and fishing."
Camping education: The state parks offer excellent learning opportunities. "Lake Murray at Dreher Island spans 50,000 acres and offers excellent fishing for largemouth bass, stripers, and crappie," notes one visitor. The park also offers "a tackle loaner program – that's right! You don't even have to bring your own fishing pole and gear."
Family-oriented campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "They have a play ground and basketball hoop for kids. A pool. All of the spots we saw have fire pits. There's a small zip line for kids," describes a visitor to Newberry/I-26/Sumter NF KOA.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds provide easier access than others. "We were just traveling to Florida and needed someplace to spend the night without unhooking. The site was perfect and the campground was wooded and lovely. Easy in and out," notes a Woodsmoke Family Campground visitor.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for potentially uneven sites. "To date, our most unlevel site we have found," reports one RVer about Woodsmoke Family Campground. At Brick House Campground, however, a camper notes, "Easy access from I26... All have level gravel pads."
Seasonal planning: Year-round camping options exist but with varying conditions. "Summer stays booked. Books up 13 months in advance holiday weekends," warns a Lake Greenwood visitor. Winter camping offers less crowded conditions, with one visitor noting, "Very quiet and very well maintained!! Clean and friendly people camping in the winter time."
