Camping sites near Little Mountain, South Carolina primarily center around water-based recreation with forest alternatives also available. The area sits in the midlands region at around 682 feet elevation, where summer temperatures often reach the mid-90s with high humidity from June through August. Fall camping conditions typically feature mild temperatures in the 60-70°F range with lower humidity, making it the preferred season for many tent campers.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Palmetto Trail passes through Alston Trailhead, offering excellent day hiking opportunities. "Beautiful trailhead, lots and lots of bikepackers. It's so cool to have somewhere like this in our own backyard," notes one visitor.
Water activities: Lake Murray provides numerous swimming spots and boat launches. "Nice swimming and fishing lake. Nice views and waterfront lots," reports one camper at Dreher Island State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Anglers can catch multiple species at Lake Greenwood. "The lake was beautiful and clear, the grounds and trails on the park were quaint and well kept," writes a visitor to Lake Greenwood State Park Campground.
Wildlife observation: Nature enthusiasts can spot deer and various bird species throughout the area. "I love going to this campground, I enjoy doing the trails and spotting dear," mentions one camper about Sesquicentennial State Park Campground.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Different campgrounds offer varying degrees of seclusion. At Brick House Campground, campers appreciate the isolation: "Mostly away from everyone and was right next to a 9-mile loop hiking trail."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. "Clean bathhouse. Stand was unpacked but level! Staff were friendly and very welcoming," reports a visitor to Sesquicentennial State Park Campground.
Budget options: Several locations offer affordable camping alternatives. "This is a great temporary stop. It has a pit toilet. This is a federal campsite. Rangers check the campsite every day and night," notes a camper at Brick House Campground, which costs $5 per night.
Lake access: Waterfront sites remain highly sought after. "Lakefront sites are well worth the extra cost. Campsites are a bit tight, but the lakefront sites have great views," comments a visitor to Lake Greenwood State Park Campground.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railway disruptions. At Alston Trailhead, a camper reports: "The only problem is the train. It woke us up at least 4 times last night. You can see the train from your campsite."
Site levelness: Prepare for potentially uneven terrain at certain campgrounds. One visitor to Woodsmoke Family Campground noted it was "To date, our most unlevel site we have found."
Seasonal considerations: Fall and spring offer the most comfortable camping weather. Summer brings intense heat and humidity with temperatures regularly above 90°F, while winter nights can occasionally drop below freezing.
Campsite spacing: Site proximity varies considerably between locations. "Very close to neighbor site, with fire pit being extremely close," reports a camper at Woodsmoke Family Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water play areas: Children enjoy designated swimming zones during summer months. At Sesquicentennial State Park Campground, "There is a small water play area for children. They have paddle boats also."
Open recreation spaces: Some campgrounds feature fields for games and activities. One camper at Broad River Campgound mentions: "They have an open area in a field and then a few sites more spread out with some trees scattered around."
Dog-friendly options: Pets are welcome at most campgrounds, with some offering dedicated dog areas. "They have a dog park that we used a lot and also there are a bunch of trails behind the campground," notes a visitor to Broad River Campground.
Safety considerations: Most campgrounds are well-monitored. "The park staff are friendly. The vibe is residential/family oriented," reports a camper about Broad River Campground, adding "Felt safe. Felt reserved."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are available at multiple locations. At Dreher Island State Park Campground, campers note the "tent sites, RV sites. Clean bathhouses."
Reservation timing: Popular RV sites fill quickly during peak seasons. For weekends at Dreher Island, a reviewer points out it "Books up 13 months in advance holiday weekends."
Pull-through accessibility: Some campgrounds offer easier access for large rigs. "Our site #3 was a pull through. A little too close to main road (about 6') but that was the only issue," mentions a visitor to Dreher Island State Park Campground.
Overnight stops: Several campgrounds serve well for transit stays. "We were just traveling to Fl and needed someplace to spend the night without unhooking. The site was perfect and the campground was wooded and lovely. Easy in and out," reports a camper about Woodsmoke Family Campground.
