Tent campsites near Pawleys Island, South Carolina provide access to the region's coastal wetlands ecosystem, where elevations rarely exceed 10 feet above sea level. The Francis Marion National Forest stretches across 258,000 acres with primitive camping options that typically lack amenities like electricity or running water. Camping opportunities range from established campgrounds to secluded spots where visitors can experience South Carolina's diverse wildlife.
What to do
Kayaking and water activities: River Island Adventures offers water-based recreation with kayak rentals, paddleboarding, and tubing options. A camper noted, "This is a water adventure company that also has camping on the property. You can reserve a camp spot without signing up for any river activities, but camping does give you a little discount on activities if you do decide to rent a kayak or anything." The outfitter also organizes special night paddles that include s'mores.
Hiking the Palmetto Trail: Campgrounds in Francis Marion National Forest connect to portions of the Palmetto Trail system. One camper mentions that "the trail is being added to. At some point in the future, you can start at the ocean and walk across the state to the border of North Carolina and Georgia."
Historical site visits: While camping at Halfway Creek, visitors can take a short drive to see local historical landmarks. One reviewer recommends: "Something fun to do is to visit (gotta drive there) the Halfway Creek Church, constructed in 1941. You can also do a hike on one of the trails here."
What campers like
Privacy options: Campers appreciate the ability to find isolation in Francis Marion National Forest. One visitor shared, "My buddies and I drove our trucks off the normal road to find ultimate privacy. We didn't stay on a set camp ground, with no cell service and no one bothering us we got to simply relax."
Wildlife viewing: The natural environment supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Campers report frequent animal sightings throughout the forest areas. As one camper stated, "Nature is abundant, both flora and fauna."
Team-building activities: River Island Adventures offers unique group experiences beyond standard camping. According to a visitor: "They offer kayaking, paddleboarding, tubing, camping, glamping, night paddles with 6 different kinds of smores!! And the super cool Escape River Island which is 10 challenges like survivor or amazing race or escape room or something. Great team building!!!"
What you should know
Water availability: Most primitive camping areas in the forest have limited or no water facilities. One camper advises: "Bring lots of water and bug spray and some trash bags to pack your trash/T.P. out!"
Weather impacts: The low elevation of camping areas makes them susceptible to flooding after rain. Trails can become waterlogged, creating challenges for hikers and campers.
Facilities at River Island Adventures: This campground offers more amenities than the primitive forest sites. A camper reports, "They have a very clean port-a-john by the campsites, and a hot outdoor shower + a regular bathroom at their outpost across from the sites."
Campsite selection: For those wanting established spots in Francis Marion National Forest, Halfway Creek campground provides open areas for larger groups. One camper explains: "The actual camping area is wide open and grassy, but if you prefer more privacy, you can hike in a bit and pick a spot."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife safety: Teach children about local wildlife and proper behavior when encountering animals. A regular visitor explains: "Snakes are probably the worst thing you'll come across, however most want to get away from people unless they feel a need to defend."
Water activities: Francis Marion National Forest camping can be combined with swimming opportunities. One grandparent shared, "I have my grandchildren for the end of summer before they started back to school and we went camping for a little over a week. The children had a chance to go swimming and they love that."
Educational opportunities: Use the camping trip to teach outdoor skills. As one visitor noted about camping with grandchildren, "They learned a lot of things about nature and did some life skills."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many camping areas in Francis Marion National Forest are not suitable for larger RVs. The forest roads can be narrow, and designated camping areas typically lack RV hookups.
Alternative accommodations: For those wanting more comfort than tent camping near Pawleys Island, River Island Adventures offers glamping options alongside their standard tent sites. Staff attentiveness at these sites receives positive reviews, with one camper stating, "The workers were a joy to be around and very attentive. Our campsite was amazing."
