The Little Mountain area offers camping options spanning forest service land, state parks, and private campgrounds. Located in central South Carolina where the piedmont region transitions to coastal plains, the area has a moderate climate with hot summers and mild winters. Local campsites range from primitive backcountry spots to developed facilities with full RV hookups.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Brick House Campground provides access to several loop trails within walking distance of 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," notes Jacob L.
Paddle sports: Lake Greenwood State Park offers excellent water access for kayaking and canoeing. "The lake was beautiful and clear, the grounds and trails on the park were quaint and well kept," says Adam W., who visited with his brother.
Fishing opportunities: Riverfront access makes certain sites perfect for anglers. At Saluda River Resort, visitors can enjoy "great fishing" directly from the campground as Patricia A. mentions, "If your looking for a place to completely relax this is the place. It sits on the Saluda River, great fishing."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Sesquicentennial State Park campsites provide adequate room even during busy periods. According to L O., "Site 46 is not terribly even, but it's well situated inside the loop. The park is clean, the tent pad is a good size, and the amazing aroma of pine is one of the natural highlights."
Cleanliness of facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and common areas. Barry B. observed at Lake Greenwood State Park, "Restroom/bath houses are never far off, and we're clean, with 2 shower stalls each. Almost every camper there had big pull behinds, so they have their own showers, leaving the bath houses mostly private."
Value for cost: Basic forest service campgrounds offer affordability with minimal amenities. Michael W. explains about Brick House Campground: "5.00 to me is great for the peace and quiet. Arrived after hunting season, informed was busy then. 4 or 5 come and go."
What you should know
Seasonal visitor patterns: Hunting seasons affect campground availability and atmosphere. Samantha S. notes about Brick House Campground: "This time of year (hunting season) was full of bigger rigs and generators. The few spots that weren't taken when we first got here eventually got scooped up by about 20 Boy Scouts."
Water availability: Not all campgrounds have drinking water on site. richardhoerz cautions, "There is no running water. The closest water is 5 or 6 miles in either direction, so pack plenty."
Reservation requirements: Systems vary between locations. For Woodsmoke Family Campground, Mark B. advises, "Call for reservations. They keep only 5 sites open for one to two openings. They have a lot of full time people."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Several parks offer child-friendly swimming areas. Ruth J. mentions at Sesquicentennial, "I love going to this campground, I enjoy doing the trails and spotting dear. And there is a small water play area for children. They have paddle boats also."
Guide
