The Camden area offers camping options within a 30-mile radius with varying terrain from forested hills to riverside settings. Campgrounds near Camden stay open year-round due to the mild southeastern climate, though winter temperatures can drop to the 30s overnight. Some sites provide electrical outlets rated for heaters during colder months.
What to do
Water recreation at Lake Wateree: Sesquicentennial State Park Campground offers a small water play area and paddle boats. "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," notes Ruth J.
Mountain biking trails: Some of the best places to camp near Camden, South Carolina provide dedicated biking paths. Poinsett State Park Campground features mountain biking trails suitable for various skill levels. One visitor mentioned, "This is a good place to stay to mountain bike, there are two trails in Poinsett and Manchester State Forest is nearby."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing spots exist within 30 minutes of Camden. "Good camp for rv or tent camping. Plenty of trails, splash park for kids and a lake for boating and fishing," reports Rick B. about Sesquicentennial State Park. Morning hours typically yield better catches according to locals.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: Campers appreciate the tree cover at many sites near Camden during hot summer days. "Really nice shaded campground and very reasonably priced. Clean bathhouse. Staff were friendly and very welcoming," says Sue W. about Sesquicentennial State Park.
Proximity to Congaree National Park: Longleaf Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring the national park. "Easy walk to visitor center from campground. On the path after crossing the road, we saw the synchronous fireflies! There were even a few at our site," shares a camper named Kelly.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer chances to spot local wildlife. "Well spaced sites with good amenities. Set in the woods, making it easy to forget you're in Columbia! Quiet, lots of birds in the spring. Easy drive to Congaree, which we highly recommend," notes Clean Slate D.
What you should know
Limited phone service: Cell coverage varies widely among top camping destinations near Camden, South Carolina. "No WiFi and rarely did we have cell service but that's not a bad thing!" reports Ramona K. about Lake Wateree State Park Campground.
Distance to supplies: Many campgrounds require planning ahead for provisions. "The park is about 25 minutes from any stores, but they keep their shop extremely well stocked," advises Jen G. about Lake Wateree State Park.
Insect preparation: Bugs can be problematic, particularly in warmer months. "Definitely bring a wagon for packing your stuff in and prepare to be eaten alive by deer flies everywhere you go! The heat in June is also pretty bad," warns Jacinda S. about Longleaf Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water activities: Several parks feature designated swimming areas for children. "We took a group of 8 wild middle schoolers here and we had a blast hiking the trails, boating, and unplugging for a while!" reports CeCelia L. about Sesquicentennial State Park.
Educational wildlife opportunities: Lee State Park Campground offers unique animal encounters. "Hosts were super nice, even when we got in late. Was wonderful to wake up and see the horses. Also dog friendly which is a plus," shares Lauren V.
Tent location strategies: For families with young children, consider proximity to restrooms. "We stayed in campsite 30! It was beautiful and we felt like we had plenty of privacy. Our site had a trail attached to the back of it which was really nice for hiking and it was perfect distance from the bathroom!" advises Alisa H. about Poinsett State Park.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pad considerations: Weston Lake Recreation Area offers solid parking surfaces. "Very nice concrete pads; large sites with fire pit, grill, and picnic table. Gravel roads have washed out areas but not terrible. Very open and quiet," reports Joy B.
Hookup positioning: Check utility connection locations before setting up. "I was in a spot that had the Hookups at opposite end of concrete pad and opposite side. I ended up buying an additional 20 ft. of dumping tubing ($60)," cautions Troy P. about Weston Lake Recreation Area.
Site selection for larger rigs: Some camping areas near Camden accommodate bigger RVs better than others. "There isn't any concerns getting back here, the biggest rigs will not have any problems. All sites are large concrete pads, FHU. Most sites are spaced very well," notes Thomas H.
