Best Campgrounds near Pickens, SC

Camping around Pickens, South Carolina includes several state park options within a short drive. Table Rock State Park Campground draws many hikers who use the network of trails that cross the park's hills and forests. Lake Jocassee sits right next to campsites at Devils Fork State Park Campground, where fishing is particularly good in the clear, deep water. Families often choose Oconee State Park Campground because of its kid-friendly setup with play areas and places to eat together outdoors. Campers should store food properly since both deer and black bears live in these woods. Some activities throughout these parks require permits, so it's worth checking with rangers before planning your trip. During dry weather, fire bans sometimes go into effect - always follow these rules when they're active. You generally can't stay longer than two weeks at these campgrounds, as they rotate spaces to let more people enjoy them. Making reservations ahead of time is smart, particularly in summer and fall when these places fill up quickly. The campgrounds near Pickens work well for different types of outdoor trips, from active adventures to quiet weekends.

Best Camping Sites Near Pickens, South Carolina (344)

    1. Table Rock State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    Sunset, SC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 878-9813

    "The cabins have all of the amenities that you need for a week of hiking, biking, and exploring the South Carolina mountains. It's close to Caesar's Head or Dupont Forest."

    "South Carolina SPs currently have a ban on bringing in firewood, forcing me to buy some at the camp store, leading to my only criticism: The wood was still very green and required significant work to get"

    2. Devils Fork State Park Campground

    51 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 944-2639

    "The lake is amazing and it is called the Caribbean of South Carolina for a reason."

    "There are few places in the southeast that are as beautiful as the crystal-clear waters of Lake Jocassee!"

    3. Mile Creek County Park

    26 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 868-2196

    "Having lived in South Carolina most my life, I haven't seen it all.. but have seen a lot of it. Mile Creek Campground is a string of 3 islands connect by narrow straights and surrounded by water."

    "We mainly confined our time to our site and Lake Keowee, so this review is only commenting on those observations and not other areas or accommodations within the park."

    4. Keowee-Toxaway State Park

    24 Reviews
    Sunset, SC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 868-2605

    $7 - $26 / night

    "There are 3 trailside primitive campsites that are on a peninsula overlooking Lake Keowee."

    "The trail was relatively short, but the hills were bigger than expected. However, the payoff at the trailside campground is incredible. The sites are out on a point on Lake Keowee."

    5. Paris Mountain State Park Campground

    37 Reviews
    Taylors, SC
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 244-5565

    $100 / night

    "Though $38 a night and more than the other state parks surrounding south Carolina such as NC, AL, GA, MS. Bathroom was clean and showers were nice. Level campspots!"

    "I stayed at Trailside Camp Site #2, which is one of their remote, primitive sites at the North Lake and all I can say is wow."

    6. Davidson River Campground

    83 Reviews
    Pisgah Forest, NC
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 785-5337

    $37 - $84 / night

    "Gravel campsite with paved entrances, 30/50 electric, and picnic table. Situated on the edge of the beautiful Pisgah National Forest. Ranger station nearby. Brevard just outside gate."

    "It's located right at the entrance to the forest, close to amenities such as Walmart supercenter, gas stations, breweries, restaurants, a great BBQ place and an ice cream joint."

    7. Oconee State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-5353

    "This state park is located in a beautiful part of South Carolina. There are a range of fun hiking trails. The cabins are rustic, but with all the amenities you need for a trip to the mountains."

    "We spent 2 nights in one of the cabins in this beautiful state park during a road trip through South Carolina. And let me say, 2 nights was not enough! The cabin itself was very well kept."

    8. Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell

    29 Reviews
    Clemson, GA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 893-0678

    $36 - $76 / night

    "Most, but not all, sites have lake views.  During the time of our visit, only one area was open for camping (sites 25-58).  "

    "Very close to grocery store and dining. Fantastic water views and warm lake water. Boats in the distance, and we had our own private swimming spot with steps into the water."

    9. Black Forest Family Camping Resort

    17 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, NC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 884-2267

    "The cabins have electricity, but the water pump is outside and the bathrooms and showers are communal (but clean). There is a full size bed and two bunk beds in each one."

    "Very clean,natural, beautiful trees , and a nice location. It is run by a very nice family. We were close to amazing waterfalls and hikes in DuPont forest."

    10. Jones Gap State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, SC
    18 miles
    Website

    "This campground has 19 trail side sites that are all great and not far from the Middle Saluda River which runs through the middle of the park."

    "I used site 7 because an oncoming storm made me bug out of my trailside plans. Gorgeous site, a bit chilly by the river but beautiful and close enough to still use the park bathrooms!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 344 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Pickens, SC

1644 Reviews of 344 Pickens Campgrounds



Guide to Pickens

Camping near Pickens, South Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Table Rock State Park Campground. "The hiking is amazing. You can get 3 days of pretty heavy-duty hiking easily," shared a visitor.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Devils Fork State Park Campground. One camper noted, "There are plenty of small mouth bass to be claimed as well!"
  • Swimming: Take a dip in the cool waters at Oconee State Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "The lake was beautiful, staff was friendly, sites were nice and spacious."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Tight Campsites: Some campgrounds, like Oconee State Park Campground, have close quarters. A reviewer mentioned, "The sites are notoriously NOT level," which can make setting up a challenge.
  • Limited Cell Service: Expect little to no cell service at Smokemont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park. "No cell or TV service here," one camper noted.
  • No Alcohol Allowed: If you're planning to visit Devils Fork State Park Campground, keep in mind that alcohol is not permitted. A visitor appreciated the quiet atmosphere, saying, "If you don’t have a boat or want to rent one, there’s not much to do."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. Asheville East KOA has a pool and game room. "There is a pool, playground, gaga ball pit, and fishing," shared a parent.
  • Plan for Trash: Bring a portable potty if you're camping with little ones. A camper at Devils Fork State Park Campground mentioned, "Make sure you bring a good headband light or strong flashlight."
  • Explore Nature: Encourage kids to enjoy the outdoors. One family at Oconee State Park Campground noted, "We saw some waterfalls, and there are many in the area."

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Pickens, South Carolina, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Pickens, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, Pickens, SC offers a wide range of camping options, with 344 campgrounds and RV parks near Pickens, SC and 36 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Pickens, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pickens, SC is Table Rock State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 55 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pickens, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 36 free dispersed camping spots near Pickens, SC.

What parks are near Pickens, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Pickens, SC that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.