Tent camping near Pauline, South Carolina offers numerous primitive and developed sites amid the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet. The region experiences mild winters and warm summers, with spring and fall providing optimal camping temperatures between 50-75°F. Most sites are situated in mixed hardwood and pine forests that provide natural shade during summer months when temperatures can reach the mid-90s.
What to do
Water recreation at Wilderness Cove Campground: Located along Green River, this campground offers tubing opportunities during summer months. Campers note, "Space is limited" but the campground provides "extremely reasonable" rates for water activities.
Hiking nearby mountain trails: Jones Gap State Park Campground features multiple trail options directly from campsites. A camper describes: "We did a short day hike to check out the camp sites and look at the waterfalls. The trails and the park are so very well kept up!"
Mountain biking on forest roads: Surrounding national forest areas provide cycling opportunities on maintained gravel roads. One camper at Sedalia Campground notes: "If you're a road cyclist this is heaven, and some decent trail riding down to the lakes."
Bird watching in secluded areas: The quiet forest settings offer chances to spot regional birds. Early morning is best for viewing, particularly in spring months when migratory species pass through.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer significant space between sites. At Jones Gap State Park Campground, a reviewer explains: "Unlike other state park campgrounds, each spot is about a quart mile from the next, so you feel like you have the mountain to yourself."
River sounds for sleeping: Several campgrounds feature sites near flowing water. A camper at Jones Gap observed: "It sits about 50 yards up the hill from the main river running through the valley... The river is a great soundtrack for a nights sleep."
Natural features near campsites: Primitive Camping By the Creek offers direct access to natural features. A camper shares: "The campsite has a pretty creek and forest. On the campsite there is a lot of firewood to use, in a shed to keep it dry. There are log seats around a nice campfire with a picnic table."
Clean facilities despite primitive settings: Even basic campgrounds maintain sanitation. At Sedalia Campground, a visitor found "one of the cleanest pit toilets I think I have ever seen."
What you should know
Hunting seasons affect availability: Fall and spring hunting seasons impact camping experiences. A reviewer at Sedalia Campground warns: "Quite calm. Hunters use it alot. Fall deer hunters spring thurkey hunting. Often gets packed."
Water access limitations: While creek access exists at some sites, potable water isn't always available. Some campsites require campers to carry in water supplies.
Road conditions to remote sites: Some locations have challenging access roads. At Wilderness Cove Campground, a camper cautions: "The drive down the mountain is a little nerve-wracking for a city boy, and my car's low clearance had me scraping my underside on some rocky bumps inside the property."
Reservation systems vary: Each camping area has different booking requirements. Check ahead as popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities for kids: Some locations offer extras for younger campers. At Primitive Camping By the Creek, a parent shared: "My daughter and I decided to camp at the last minute. This place was close to the interstate but still very secluded. Plenty of firewood and next to a creek."
Consider accessible hike-in options: Crowders Mountain State Park Campground offers family-appropriate walk-in sites. A visitor explains: "This was a pretty good place to camp. There is a hike to the campsite from the parking lot so we definitely got our workout in bringing our gear in... The hikes here are really awesome and the facilities are nice and clean!"
Pack for variable terrain: Most tent camping near Pauline requires preparation for uneven ground. A reviewer at Jones Gap notes: "The pad that has been cleared isn't perfectly level, but it's fine. There are however a few large buried rocks that keep it from being as smooth as you might expect."
Look for creek-accessible sites: Water features provide natural entertainment for children. Sites along creeks allow for supervised water play during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Small RV considerations: Hippie Holler and similar sites accommodate smaller recreational vehicles but have space limitations. A reviewer appreciated the "quiet" atmosphere, noting it felt "safe, understood and able to relax completely."
Limited hookup options: Most camping areas near Pauline offer primitive camping with few or no hookups. RVers should prepare for boondocking conditions at most locations.
Pack in/pack out requirements: Many forest camping areas have strict trash policies. Come prepared to carry out all waste as trash receptacles may not be available at all sites.
Dry camping preparedness: For RVers at Sedalia Campground, a reviewer suggests: "Overall, it is a great area for primitive camping and for dry camping if you are in a small RV."
