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 (109)

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

    17 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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Recent Reviews near Laurens, SC

452 Reviews of 109 Laurens Campgrounds


  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

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

    Nice for almost free camping

    We stayed here for three nights in space number 17. Surprisingly it was quite level. The whole time we were there there was only usually about three or four other campers in the 21 spaces. Beware of 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. This is totally dry camping and there are two sets of vault toilets. 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. Hikes in the forest noted several downed trees, most likely due to the hurricane that occurred last year. Some of the trails were impassable.

  • madison F.
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Golden Grove Farm and Brew

    HIPPIES AND HOORAHS

    arrived around 2 - had live music at 7 so went to get drinks & dinner. had the MOST incredible time. EVERY single person - staff & locals - were the friendliest, most welcoming and inviting people we have ever met. it was such a fun night. food & drinks are also amazing. if you’re looking for a fun night out but also need a place to stay - COME HERE!!! will definitely be coming back if we’re in SC

    such a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere

  • madison F.
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Iron City Campground, Inc.

    great stop & stay

    nice campground. bathrooms and pool are CLEAN!!!! private bathrooms with showers. also has laundry ($) but has change for quarters in shop!! super big plus . also got a buddy site for the price of a normal one!

    not super crowded but still a nice community to be around :) 10 min drive into town as well. all sites have full hookups which was also super handy. not a bad price for what you get. only stayed two nights but would definitely stay again

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Springfield - Hartwell Lake

    Gorgeous view

    I believe every site is lake front. The view of the lake is amazing and perfect. Some sites have little beaches for access to the water. Others have rocks if you want to make your way down those. Mine had rocks covered with wire thats been cut or broken so wasn’t taking my chances there. This place is huge! There is no sewer at sites but water and electric up to 50amp

  • Sarah B.
    Jul. 5, 2025

    Croft State Park Campground

    Outdoor adventure awaits

    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. Lots of hiking and biking to be done which is always a great time.

  • Kevan  R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 22, 2025

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Needs Maintenance!

    SC state parks must have shortage of $$ or employees. I know they upgraded to full hook up RV sites in the Fishermen camp recently, but maybe, a little thought could have gone into grading and leveling. SMH Also, it’s a Sunday and the grounds look like they haven’t been mowed in weeks. Camper across from us brought a lawn mower 🤷🏼‍♂️. See attached pics. Fire ring is 5’ from the camper. Positive - the lake view.

    2nd SC park this year - SC DNR, do better.

  • Leslie W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 22, 2025

    April Valley RV Park

    45+, small dogs

    Tried to book but very select campground. Only people 45 and older and no kids. Dogs can only be under 30 lbs. looks nice otherwise

  • Jerry H.
    Jun. 17, 2025

    WyldStay Greenville

    Glamping on the farm - Highland Cows

    My wife and I stayed a couple weeks ago and had a blast.   We arrived and immediately met Pebbles (My wife's favorite of the Highland cows).  She was the sweetest cow and allowed us to pet, take pictures with her and of course feed her.   We also spent some time with the other cows and loved the experience as we interacted with them and all of the other animals, including the new sheep that recently arrived.   The camp site was way more then expected.   Large tents on a platform, with  everything you need to camp and enjoy the campgrounds and pastures.   Full bathroom onsite, great ponds to enjoy.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 15, 2025

    Paris Mountain State Park Campground

    Solid campground

    This is a beautiful park, with lots to do, and in close proximity to the endless supply of activities that can be found in the Greenville area.

    The campground was quiet and well shaded. Some of the sites needed a little rehab and weren’t very flat. The bathrooms were definitely older, but very clean.

    All in all, we enjoyed our stay and will probably stay here again!


Guide to Laurens

Camping sites near Laurens, South Carolina range from primitive forest service locations to full-service parks with lakefront access. The region sits at elevations between 500-800 feet in the Piedmont region, creating varied terrain for camping between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the coastal plain. Summer nighttime temperatures typically remain above 65°F even when daytime highs exceed 90°F, making evening campfires comfortable year-round at most locations.

What to do

Hiking trails access: The Palmetto Trail passes through Sedalia Campground, providing excellent day hiking opportunities. "If you're a road cyclist this is heaven, and some decent trail riding down to the lakes," notes one visitor who frequently camps at Sedalia.

Lake activities: Fishing and boating are popular at Lake Greenwood State Park Campground. "My brother and I went for our first camping trip. The lake was beautiful and clear, the grounds and trails on the park were quaint and well kept," reports a camper who visited in 2021.

Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Brick House Campground offer chances to spot deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. "This is a great temporary stop. I was there for two days. It has a pit toilet. This is a federal campsite. Rangers check the campsite every day and night," explains a camper who visited in late 2024.

What campers like

Affordable primitive camping: At just $5 per night, Brick House Campground offers exceptional value. "Easy access from I26. Spent a week here and really enjoying it. Has 21 spots. All have legal gravel pads, fire rings with grill bars. Vault toilets clean and trash containers serviced," writes a visitor who stayed in January 2021.

Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the area provide ample space between campsites. "Site 16... was a little damp due to a heavy rain but a great site. 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," notes a camper about their experience at Brick House Campground.

Clean facilities: Despite their rustic nature, toilet facilities at most campgrounds receive positive reviews. "This campground is run by the state and reservations have to be made through rec.gov. Check with them or the local ranger before headed out. It can get tricky through hunting season versus non hunting season," advises a visitor to Brick House Campground.

What you should know

Hunting season impacts: During fall and spring hunting seasons, campground dynamics change significantly. "Camp ground used by hunters alot. Horse trail and hinking here. Valt toilets," notes a visitor to Brick House Campground, indicating the increased activity during these periods.

Water access limitations: Not all campgrounds provide potable water. "The closest water is 5 or 6 miles in either direction, so pack plenty," warns a camper who stayed at Brick House Campground, highlighting the importance of bringing adequate water supplies.

Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. "Paved campsites. Clean bath houses. Nice shores, not too rocky. No red clay," mentions a visitor to Lake Greenwood State Park, noting the well-maintained site conditions compared to other locations in the area.

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.