Tent campsites near Patrick, South Carolina provide access to the Carolina Sandhills ecosystem where longleaf pine forests and sandy soil define the landscape. Summer temperatures typically reach into the 90s with high humidity, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for tent camping. The area receives approximately 45 inches of rainfall annually, creating periodic challenges for campers during wet weather.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Lumber River State Park at Chalk Banks Access offers excellent kayaking conditions. "Easy parking nice boat ramp for the kayaks," notes Danny R., who visited during Memorial Day weekend for fishing and paddling.
Fishing excursions: The Lumber River provides good fishing access directly from the Chalk Banks campground. Joe S. reports, "The lumber river access is ideal to kayak and fish," making it convenient for campers to combine water activities.
Educational programs: Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge offers unique learning experiences for groups. Janet R. explains, "For the purpose of environmental education programs and research activity, school groups and youth groups are welcome to visit the preserve for ranger led programs and can stay overnight at special rustic group campsites."
Wildlife observation: The refuge provides opportunities to study local species in their natural habitat. Groups camping at Carolina Sandhills are "required to do some kind of service learning project while in residence, and/or submit a list of species observed or studied while in residence," according to Janet R.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Tent sites at Chalk Banks are notably spacious. "The tent sites are some of the better spread out ones that I've seen," writes S.H. S., adding that "having cell coverage is immensely appreciated considering you're basically in the middle of nowhere."
Clean facilities: Despite limited amenities, campers appreciate the maintenance. Makenzie T. found that "each campsite was clean, had plenty of space on level ground to set up camp, a fire pit, and very clean toilet."
Natural setting: The pine forest environment creates a peaceful atmosphere. Joe L. describes, "These campsites are in a beautiful pine woods forest. Many sites have a pretty mossy pathway near the tent platform."
Abundant firewood: Natural resources for campfires are readily available. Cody T. notes, "There is a lot of wood to gather for your fire but if you want to buy firewood then you'll have to drive to the speedway about 10 minutes down the road."
What you should know
Gate access restrictions: Chalk Banks enforces specific hours for gate access. Jay B. warns, "When the website says the park closes at 'posted times', they mean 9pm. We know this because we got there at 9:05 and the gate was locked tight."
Limited facilities: Sandhills Campground B offers truly primitive camping. Marvin D. cautions, "No bathrooms, no water spigots, no camp store, nothing like that. Bring all your own EVERYTHING."
Vehicle requirements: Some camping areas have challenging access roads. For Sandhills Campground B, "Make sure you have 4 wheel drive or a vehicle with good clearance, as it's all dirt roads in and around and leading to here," advises Marvin D.
Water source etiquette: The single water source at Chalk Banks requires considerate use. Jay B. observed that "The people in the group site however, utilized the one water spigot as a bath house, yep, full on bathing, dish washing, you get the picture, even after being told by the staff not to."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection: Certain sites at Chalk Banks offer better family accommodations. Tammie S. points out, "Extra large and private campsites. One of the campsites has a hammock stand. The group site is huge."
Wildlife education: Family groups can arrange educational experiences at Carolina Sandhills Wildlife Refuge. John P. mentions a special event: "The first weekend in March most of the roads in the refuge are closed and is staged out for the Sandblast Rally. Tons of fun for a volunteer and a great excuse to be outdoors."
Insect protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic during warmer months. Bruce H. advises, "I'm a fan of this place it is beautiful and quiet sites are primitive but well cared for nice security features bring mosquito repellent."
Water activities: The river access provides family-friendly recreation options. Makenzie T. notes, "There was a path walkable to the river, and each campsite was clean, had plenty of space on level ground to set up camp."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: The Chalk Banks campground accommodates different camping styles. Marvin D. explains, "The right hand side of the campground is set up for RV's (pull through sites). The left hand side is for tent camping."
Seasonal availability: Chalk Banks typically has good availability outside major holidays. Joe L. reports, "The campground ranger said they only fill up on the 4th of July."
Security features: Campers appreciate the safety measures in place. Cody T. notes, "Once we arrived, the ranger came by and greeted us and gave us the code for the front gate since it is locked from 8 pm to 8 am."
Supply planning: No nearby stores means RVers must bring everything needed. Joe L. advises, "There is no general store nearby so bring wood and supplies in with you."
