Best Dispersed Camping near Anderson, SC

Dispersed camping opportunities near Anderson, South Carolina include several primitive sites within the Sumter National Forest. Blue Valley Dispersed Camping features approximately 10-15 drive-up sites with fire rings and lantern posts, most situated along creeks or small rivers. Mountain Rest Mountain Top provides hilltop camping with access to hiking trails leading to waterfalls. Blackwell Bridge offers riverside camping along the Chauga River with year-round trout fishing. Several campers note that these sites provide excellent seclusion and natural soundscapes, with one visitor describing Blue Valley as having "wonderful creek/river by every campsite" and "very little traffic on the dirt road."

Access to most dispersed sites requires moderate clearance vehicles. Forest roads are typically narrow, uneven, and sometimes muddy after rainfall. According to reviews, Mountain Rest Mountain Top has "a one-way gravel road" where "4x4 is recommended but I made it down in a 2x4 fullsize pickup." No drinking water, toilets, or trash services are available at these locations. Campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Fire rings exist at most established sites, though fire restrictions may apply during dry periods or high fire danger.

The Chattooga River corridor offers additional camping options including Sandy Beach Campsite, accessible by hiking trail. For a unique experience, Goat Island provides boat-in camping with five separate sites equipped with picnic tables and fire pits. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer days being warm but nights potentially cool even in July. The region experiences considerable rainfall, which can affect site conditions and access roads. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation systems in place. Practice Leave No Trace principles when visiting these primitive camping areas.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Anderson, South Carolina (11)

    1. Blue Valley Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Highlands, NC
    47 miles
    Website

    "Location is actually about 1.5. Miles further than shown on map. Just keep going. Stayed for a week. About 7 campsites with fire rings. Great trails and people camping near were respectful."

    "Almost all near a creek of some sort. Hiking trails near by. No facilities. Room for larger groups ~40 people max for the biggest site ~6 for the smallest"

    2. Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    3 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-5353

    "We arrived pretty late, close to midnight after hitting a lot of traffic traveling from Fl."

    "Great spot with room to turn around. Shaded and at trailhead of a trail down to creek and near a second trail to a waterfall. Had a few people during the day but evenings were totally quiet."

    3. Blackwell Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Long Creek, SC
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-9568

    "Access is rough, (moderate clearance vehicles required). Also, as courtesy - cruise the bridge and see if people are down there first, (both sides).

    Sweet backcountry spot!"

    4. Blackwell Bridge

    2 Reviews
    Long Creek, SC
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-9568

    "Couple things to know you don't need 4wd to get to the campsite. I do want to say though that the road down to the spot is a little wonky so be prepare for bumpy road."

    5. Falls Creek

    2 Reviews
    Long Creek, SC
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-9568

    "Decent site(s) near chatooga river. Moderate clearance vehicle required, (or hike it)."

    6. Goat Island

    2 Reviews
    Ninety Six, SC
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 942-8560

    "Goat island can only be accessed by boat but with 5 separate spots it’s a pretty neat island to camp at. There are picnic tables and fire pits at each site, but no other accommodations."

    7. Sandy Beach Campsite

    1 Review
    Tamassee, SC
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 476-9700

    "Right next to the Chattooga river. You're on the beach."

    8. Glen Falls Backcountry Campground

    1 Review
    Highlands, NC
    48 miles
    Website

    "The backcountry site is located near the far trailhead at Glen Falls located at the end of a forestry road."

    9. King Creek

    1 Review
    Highlands, SC
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (843) 336-3248
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Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Anderson, SC

20 Reviews of 11 Anderson Campgrounds



Guide to Anderson

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Anderson, South Carolina, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Anderson, South Carolina

  • Be prepared for rough access roads; for instance, reaching Blackwell Bridge may require a vehicle with moderate clearance due to uneven terrain.
  • Always pack out what you pack in; many sites, like King Creek, have been noted for litter, so maintaining cleanliness is essential for preserving the natural beauty.
  • Bring your own water and supplies, as facilities are minimal; for example, Falls Creek does not offer water hookups or restrooms.

Top activities while free camping near Anderson

  • Fishing is a popular activity, especially at Blackwell Bridge, where the nearby river is open for trout fishing year-round with no restrictions on lures or sizes.
  • Hiking trails abound in the area; Mountain Rest Mountain Top provides access to trails leading to scenic waterfalls and creek views.
  • Enjoy the tranquility of nature while camping at Goat Island, where you can kayak to your site and experience peaceful solitude surrounded by water.

Scenic spots for dispersed campers

  • The Sandy Beach Campsite offers a unique riverside experience, allowing campers to set up right on the beach next to the Chattooga River.
  • For those seeking a secluded environment, Falls Creek features multiple tent spots in a quiet area, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
  • If you're looking for a backcountry experience, Earl’s Ford dispersed provides a remote setting with minimal traffic noise, ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Anderson, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Anderson, SC is Blue Valley Dispersed Camping with a 4-star rating from 8 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Anderson, SC?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Anderson, SC, with real photos and reviews from campers.