Campsites near Kinards, South Carolina offer varying levels of seclusion within the Sumter National Forest area. The region sits at elevations ranging from 400-500 feet and features a mix of hardwood forests and lake access points. Winter temperatures typically remain mild with highs in the 50s, making year-round camping viable at many locations, though summer humidity can be significant from June through September.
What to do
Hiking the Palmetto Trail: The Palmetto Trail passes through several camping areas near Kinards. At Brick House Campground, campers can access a 9-mile loop hiking trail directly from the campground. "Site 16...was right next to a 9 mile loop hiking trail. Had a great stay in our roof top tent and will be back," reports Jacob L.
Lake activities on Lake Greenwood: Water recreation options abound at Lake Greenwood State Park Campground, which provides boat access and swimming areas. "The lake was beautiful and clear, the grounds and trails on the park were quaint and well kept," notes Adam W. The park maintains clear shorelines that are "not too rocky. No red clay," according to Jessica P.
Island camping adventures: For a unique experience, Goat Island offers boat-only access camping with minimal light pollution. "Goat island can only be accessed by boat but with 5 separate spots it's a pretty neat island to camp at. There are picnic tables and fire pits at each site, but no other accommodations," explains Jay J. Another visitor adds, "It was a nice peaceful kayak trip out to the island where they had a fire pit and picnic table waiting."
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Several forest campsites offer affordable rates for primitive camping. "It's $5 a night. It's also only a short drive from where we live in Spartanburg," mentions one reviewer about Brick House Campground. Similarly, Sedalia Campground maintains low rates, with one camper noting, "It's cheap and close to where we live in Spartanburg."
Spacious sites with privacy: Sedalia Campground provides primitive camping with good site separation. "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," explains Myron C. The campground includes "a communal fire pit" in the group camping area.
Lakefront views: Waterfront camping with direct views is highly valued by visitors to Dreher Island State Park Campground. "Nearly every single campsite here has either direct lake access or, at a minimum, a brilliant lakeview," notes Stuart K. The island setting creates a distinctive camping environment where "you will see deer, you can go fishing, swimming hiking."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Sumter National Forest Woods Ferry Campground only operates "April 1 to October 31," requiring off-season planning. At Brick House Campground, hunters heavily use the area during hunting seasons: "Camp ground used by hunters alot. Horse trail and hiking here. Valt toilets," reports Wolf R.N.
Water access limitations: Many primitive sites lack potable water. At Brick House Campground, "There is no running water. The closest water is 5 or 6 miles in either direction, so pack plenty," advises richardhoerz. Similarly, Sedalia Campground has running water but limited other amenities: "Has fire pit and access to running water. No picnic tables and has vaulted toilets."
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. For Brick House Campground, one camper warns about "the giant pothole when turning off the 66 onto the Brickhouse Road. We hit it and it jarred the trailer so much it broke our back window." Forest roads generally receive less maintenance than main highways, particularly after storms.
Tips for camping with families
Campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities: Newberry/I-26/Sumter NF KOA offers structured activities for children throughout their stay. "They've planned so much for this campground that our kids have had 5 days of things to do each day," explains Logan S. The campground includes "a play ground and basketball hoop for kids. A pool. All of the spots we saw have fire pits."
Water safety preparation: When camping at lake sites, bring appropriate flotation devices for children. Lake Greenwood State Park Campground provides swimming areas but no lifeguards. One visitor notes it's "a Great Lake to swim in" while another mentions the "beautiful grounds, great facilities" make it suitable for family outings.
Weather contingency plans: Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly. At Dreher Island, campers should "stake your abode down with as many lines as you quite possibly can" as "winds can be strong." Having indoor activities planned helps during rainy periods, with one camper noting, "Weather was rainy towards the end but enjoyed the stay."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Brick House Campground accommodates various RV sizes despite being primitive. "Has 21 spots. All have level gravel pads, fire rings with grill bars. Vault toilets clean and trash containers serviced. Access for bigger rigs too," reports Michael W. The campground features "a couple pull-through spots" according to Allyse.
Full-hookup options: For those needing complete services, options exist but are limited. At Lake Greenwood Motorcoach Resort, campers enjoy "Views of the lake from almost every site, large pool, and lots of friendly people." However, some resorts restrict certain camping styles, with Moon Landing Campground specifying "No tent camping no fishing and no swimming."
Supply planning: Limited services near primitive campgrounds require advance preparation. For Brick House Campground, Lisa M. notes: "Nearest town was Whitmire about 7 miles away. Minimal facilities. Clinton and Newberry are both about 15 miles away and they both have plenty of shopping facilities."
