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Best Campgrounds near Little Mountain, SC

278 Reviews

Camping near Little Mountain, South Carolina centers around lake-based recreation, with several established campgrounds situated along Lake Murray's shoreline. Dreher Island State Park Campground, located on a 348-acre island in Lake Murray about 15 minutes from Little Mountain, serves as the area's premier camping destination. The park features tent sites, RV hookups, and camper cabins with lakefront views. Alston Trailhead offers free primitive camping with walk-in sites tucked behind the trailhead signs, providing access to the Palmetto Trail. The surrounding region includes Brick House Campground in the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests, offering a more rustic camping experience with basic amenities and hiking trails.

Most campgrounds in the Little Mountain area are open year-round, though summer brings hot, humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Mosquitoes are prevalent near the lakes during warmer months, particularly at dusk. According to reviews, strong winds can affect lakeside camping at Dreher Island, requiring extra tent stakes during storms. Winter camping is mild with occasional freezing temperatures. Reservations are recommended for Dreher Island State Park, especially for weekend stays during peak summer season (May through September). Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with the exception of some remote forest locations.

The camping options near Little Mountain cater to various preferences and needs. Dreher Island State Park provides water-based recreation with fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. As one camper noted, "Access to the lake was a breeze from the site; easy to walk in the water and to get kayaks in and out." RV campers will find full hookup sites at several campgrounds, while tent campers have dedicated platforms at Dreher Island with electric hookups. For those seeking more seclusion, Brick House Campground offers quieter surroundings. A visitor reported, "Spent New Years at site 16 and it was a little damp due to heavy rain but a great site. Mostly away from everyone and was right next to a 9-mile loop hiking trail."

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Best Camping Sites Near Little Mountain, South Carolina (69)

    1. Dreher Island State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Chapin, SC
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 364-4152

    "This campground is a popular spot in South Carolina. Campsites are pretty close together but it's usually peaceful - lakeside sites, good fishing, but be prepared for the mosquitos!"

    "In my never-ending quest to discover the most perfect campground haven, after a rather intense amount of research, I landed on Dreher Island smack dab in the very center of South Carolina, where my daughter"

    2. Alston Trailhead

    5 Reviews
    Chapin, SC
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 771-0870

    "Lovely walk on the Palmetto trail in the morning. There are also “walk-in” campsites right behind the trailhead signs in the trees."

    "But we laughed, it was like being a kid where you could hear the train off in the distance and would ride your bike to go watch it pass."

    3. Broad River Campgound

    4 Reviews
    Chapin, SC
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 749-9100

    "They have an open area in a field and then a few sites more spread out with some trees scattered around. We got one of the spread out sites and quite liked our spot."

    "Very quiet park, bathrooms were closed to overnight guests so didn't get to see them. Full hook ups(including sewer) which were easy to access."

    4. Woodsmoke Family Campground

    4 Reviews
    Chapin, SC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 781-3451

    5. Prices Bridge Glampsite

    1 Review
    Prosperity, SC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 422-5674

    $50 - $250 / night

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

    16 Reviews
    Kinards, SC
    24 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."

    7. Sesquicentennial State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    State Park, SC
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 788-2706

    "The site was level with a gravel drive and parking area. Lots of pines all around but the site was clear enough for easy parking. No sewer hookups."

    "The park is in Columbia SC, and is a great choice for families who may want to do things outside the park. The park is super close to the Riverbanks Zoo."

    8. Big Creek RV Park

    1 Review
    Prosperity, SC
    18 miles
    +1 (803) 240-9531

    $20 - $40 / night

    "You can paddle out to the main lake from this location. Quiet setting. Give them a try and leave them some love!"

    9. Lake Greenwood State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Ninety Six, SC
    31 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."

    10. Kaleidoscope Farm

    1 Review
    Irmo, SC
    18 miles
    +1 (803) 414-9966

    $25 - $30 / night

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Recent Camping Photos near Little Mountain, SC

76 Photos of 69 Little Mountain Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Little Mountain, SC

278 Reviews of 69 Little Mountain Campgrounds

Guide to Little Mountain

Camping near Little Mountain, South Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: Many campers enjoy fishing and boating on Lake Murray. One visitor at Dreher Island State Park Campground said, "We spent 90% of our time on the lake swimming, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and enjoying one of the best lakes we’ve ever experienced."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Sesquicentennial State Park Campground. A camper mentioned, "Many trails to hike on and many beautiful sites close to town but far enough for minimal traffic sounds."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Lake Greenwood State Park Campground have spotted various wildlife. One reviewer noted, "Beautiful site right on Lake. Plenty of places to walk. Beautiful scenery."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Lake Wateree State Park Campground said, "The nicest shower house I have ever seen. This is the standard we base all other campgrounds."
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at Magnolia Family Campground shared, "The owners and host are amazing at what they do! They’ve planned so much for this campground that our kids have had 5 days of things to do each day."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A reviewer at Chester State Park Campground mentioned, "Driving into the park was beautiful. Big huge trees and winding roads."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may have limited amenities. A camper at Brick House Campground noted, "There is no running water. The closest water is 5 or 6 miles in either direction, so pack plenty."
  • Noise Levels: Depending on the location, noise can be an issue. One visitor at Weston Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "You may hear firing range training going on in the distance."
  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Broad River Campground said, "Spots were SUPER close together and no picnic tables, but great spot to stay for a night."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. A camper at Lake Wateree State Park Campground mentioned, "The staff and everyone around were super nice."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring your own supplies, as some campgrounds are far from grocery stores. A visitor at Lake Greenwood State Park Campground advised, "Not much near the site for supplies so bring your supplies if possible."
  • Safety First: Ensure your campsite is safe for kids. A camper at Dreher Island State Park Campground noted, "It was nice knowing that there are no alligators there."

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Little Mountain, South Carolina, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors and make some lasting memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Little Mountain, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, Little Mountain, SC offers a wide range of camping options, with 69 campgrounds and RV parks near Little Mountain, SC and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Little Mountain, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Little Mountain, SC is Dreher Island State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 47 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Little Mountain, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Little Mountain, SC.

What parks are near Little Mountain, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Little Mountain, SC that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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