Best Campgrounds near Laurens, SC

The Laurens, South Carolina area features several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, with options ranging from primitive sites to full-service RV parks. Lake Greenwood State Park Campground offers tent and RV camping with boat-in access points, while the Newberry/I-26/Sumter NF KOA in Kinards provides cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping areas. Brick House Campground in the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests offers a more rustic experience with primitive camping sites but still accommodates both tents and RVs. Green Acres provides a smaller, intimate camping environment with just four sites within walking distance of Lake Greenwood.

Most developed campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, though spring and fall typically offer the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities. Summer humidity can be significant, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August. Facilities vary considerably, with state parks like Lake Greenwood and Croft offering more amenities including showers, electric hookups, and dump stations, while forest service sites like Brick House and Sedalia Campgrounds provide minimal services beyond vault toilets and fire rings. Reservations are recommended for developed sites, especially during weekends and holidays. "Practically boondocking! The only amenity is pit toilets. No water, no electric. Only 23 sites, spaced a good distance apart. Each site has a fire pit and picnicking area," noted one visitor about Brick House Campground.

Water access represents a significant draw for many campgrounds in the region. Lake Greenwood State Park and Lake Greenwood Motorcoach Resort provide direct water access, with the latter featuring "views of the lake from almost every site," according to visitor feedback. Sedalia Campground attracts outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate primitive camping near hunting areas and hiking trails, including access to the Palmetto Trail. Several campers mentioned the clean facilities at various sites despite their rustic nature. The KOA in Kinards stands out for family-friendly amenities including a pool, playground, basketball court, and organized activities. During hunting seasons, particularly in fall and spring, forest service campgrounds like Brick House can become quite busy with hunters, changing the normally quiet atmosphere of these more remote camping areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Laurens, South Carolina (107)

    1. Brick House Campground (Sc) — Francis Marion And Sumter National Forests

    16 Reviews
    Kinards, SC
    19 miles

    $5 - $150 / night

    "Mostly away from everyone and was right next to a 9 mile loop hiking trail. Had a great stay in our roof top tent and will be back"

    "Quick last minute camping trip we didn’t want to drive hours away from home. This was fairly close and one of the few places to all booked up for the weekend."

    2. Lake Greenwood State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Ninety Six, SC
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 543-3535

    "It’s a primitive, tucked in the woods spot on the lake. The camp sites are wonderfully spaced out. We stayed in sites you had to park and walk to, but the walk was very short."

    "This review is neither negative or positive. Just how it is, so you know before you go. The park is clean and nearly every camp spot is shaded. All roads and camp spots are paved and have fire pits."

    3. Newberry / I-26 / Sumter NF KOA

    6 Reviews
    Kinards, SC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 697-1214

    "Supplies can be picked up roughly 15 to 30 minutes away from the campground."

    "Becci was able to move some things around so we could continue to camp here for a few days while our truck is being repaired.

    This park is owned by a few couples."

    4. Croft State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    White Stone, SC
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 585-1283

    "37 ft pull behind and we stayed at the upper campground (not the lakeside) close to the trail that takes you down to the creek for a swim."

    "Head back to the end of the camping loop away from the office and find a trail that leads down to a nice swimming creek. Great place for exploring all over the park."

    5. Pine Ridge Campground

    12 Reviews
    Pauline, SC
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 576-0302

    $40 - $55 / night

    "Was able to contact them for anything via text or walk into office when open. Beautiful restrooms kept clean and had a combination lock on them. Will definitely stay there again when in the area."

    "There is an acre of catch and release pond, a playground and jump pad for kids, a pool, some trails, several things to do."

    6. Green Acres

    1 Review
    Greenwood, SC
    13 miles
    +1 (803) 351-0241

    $75 / night

    7. Paris Mountain State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    Taylors, SC
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 244-5565

    $100 / night

    "Though $38 a night and more than the other state parks surrounding south Carolina such as NC, AL, GA, MS. Bathroom was clean and showers were nice. Level campspots!"

    "I stayed at Trailside Camp Site #2, which is one of their remote, primitive sites at the North Lake and all I can say is wow."

    8. Sedalia Campground

    4 Reviews
    Cross Anchor, SC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 561-4000

    "Has fire pit and access to running water . No picnic tables and has vaulted toilets . But very nice place to get away from stress of life . Definitely will be back"

    "If you're a road cyclist this is heaven, and some decent trail riding down to the lakes. Just be aware that there are no picnic tables. Still it's cheap and close to where we live in Spartanburg."

    9. Lake Greenwood Motorcoach Resort

    2 Reviews
    Ninety Six, SC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 992-4700

    $63 - $98 / night

    "It is quiet here, the lake is beautiful and the people are friendly. "

    "Views of the lake from almost every site, large pool, and lots of friendly people."

    10. Fireside RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Woodruff, SC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 453-1229

    $40 - $50 / night

    "The grass is very nice instead of dirt or gravel pad next to you.

    No picnic tables and the WiFi was just useable. I had 2-3 bars of AT&T LTE Wireless signal."

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Showing results 1-10 of 107 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Laurens, SC

451 Reviews of 107 Laurens Campgrounds



Guide to Laurens

Camping near Laurens, South Carolina, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. A review for Devils Fork State Park Campground stated, "Restrooms/shower was fairly modern and very clean - hot water available."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Hamilton Branch State Park Campground mentioned, "Neighboring sites are spread out nicely."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the parks. One reviewer at Kings Mountain State Park said, "The park is very pretty with all the trees, but the campsites themselves are very unlevel and laid out very awkwardly."

What you should know:

  • Alcohol policies: Some campgrounds, like Devils Fork State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A camper noted, "SC state parks don’t allow alcohol so it was pretty quiet and no loud, drunk people."
  • Site conditions: Be prepared for varying site conditions. A review for Kings Mountain State Park mentioned, "The electric and water are in odd spots on each site."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may have fewer amenities. A visitor at Petersburg - J Strom Thurmond Lake said, "There was also a lot of poison ivy."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. One camper at Elijah Clark State Park Campground mentioned, "Great playgrounds for kids, plus mini golf and kayak rentals."
  • Plan for meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A family at Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell shared, "The campground was quiet at night."
  • Safety first: Keep an eye on kids near water. A visitor at Dreher Island State Park Campground noted, "The site was reasonably level although it was slanting slightly towards the lake."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Dreher Island State Park Campground mentioned, "The site was tight for our 33ft travel trailer."
  • Use leveling blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A camper at Kings Mountain State Park advised, "Most sites were shady. There is NO privacy at any site."
  • Book in advance: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly. A visitor at Table Rock State Park Campground said, "I would definitely go back!"

Camping near Laurens, South Carolina, provides a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a great choice for families and outdoor lovers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find campgrounds near Laurens?

Several excellent campgrounds are located within driving distance of Laurens. Lake Greenwood State Park Campground offers spacious sites with lake access and is one of the closest options to Laurens. For those willing to drive a bit further, Calhoun Falls State Park Campground provides beautiful lakeside campsites with spectacular sunset views over the water. The park features large, private sites and is considered a hidden gem in the region. Additional options include Newberry/I-26/Sumter NF KOA near Kinards and Pine Ridge Campground near Roebuck, both offering full hookups for RVs and basic amenities for tent campers.

Are there mountain campgrounds near Laurens?

Paris Mountain State Park Campground is the premier mountain camping destination accessible from Laurens, featuring scenic surroundings and quiet, level campsites. The park offers clean bathrooms, nice showers, and free firewood with donation. For those willing to explore further into the mountains, Dreher Island State Park Campground provides a unique island camping experience with lakeside sites in a peaceful setting. Though not technically in the mountains, its hilly terrain and lake views create a mountain-like atmosphere. Both parks require reservations, with Paris Mountain charging around $38 per night. The Sumter National Forest also offers more primitive mountain camping options within driving distance of Laurens.

What tent camping options are available in Laurens?

Tent campers near Laurens have several quality options to consider. Chester State Park Campground offers tent sites, though be aware that some areas may be rocky, so you'll want to scout your spot carefully. Springfield - Hartwell Lake is another popular destination with 79 campsites featuring water and electric hookups in a scenic Virginia pine forest setting. The campground spans 60 acres and provides comfort stations for campers. Tent campers should also consider Parsons Mountain Recreation Area, which offers a more rustic experience beside a small lake with swimming and fishing opportunities. Most sites in the area require reservations, especially during peak season.