The Pickens area in upstate South Carolina features several well-developed campgrounds including Table Rock State Park, Devils Fork State Park, and Paris Mountain State Park. The region's mixed-use facilities accommodate tent campers, RV travelers, and cabin guests, with most campgrounds maintaining bathroom facilities, electric hookups, and water access. Table Rock State Park offers both standard campground loops and primitive hike-in sites, while other nearby options like Mile Creek County Park provide lakefront recreation opportunities. The mountainous terrain creates diverse camping environments ranging from developed sites with full amenities to more secluded backcountry options within a 30-mile radius of Pickens.
Road conditions throughout the region remain well-maintained for accessing established campgrounds, though some primitive sites require short hikes from parking areas. "Table Rock is one of the largest state parks in the state of SC and has a TON to offer in terms of hiking. We stayed in the primitive hike-in tent only camp sites, not the 'regular' campground," noted one visitor. Most campgrounds in the area operate year-round, with summer and fall weekends experiencing heaviest use. Cell service varies significantly by location, with some campgrounds like White Oaks offering reliable coverage while others have limited connectivity. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak seasons, particularly for popular lakeside sites and cabins which often book months in advance.
Several visitors highlight the region's natural features as primary attractions beyond the campsites themselves. The hiking trails at Table Rock State Park receive particular praise for their scenic views and challenging terrain. Campers frequently mention the quality of facilities, with one noting that "the bathrooms were dated, but clean. Hot showers." The area's lakes provide additional recreational opportunities, with paddleboard and kayak rentals available at locations like Table Rock's lake. Wildlife sightings commonly include deer, squirrels, and birds. Site privacy varies considerably between campgrounds and specific sites, with some visitors noting that primitive sites can be "VERY close together," while others found certain numbered sites at Table Rock to offer more seclusion. The region balances accessibility with natural immersion, making it suitable for both weekend camping trips and longer outdoor explorations.
"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"
"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!"
$15 - $116 / night
"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."
$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."
$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."
$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."
"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."
$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."
"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."
"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!"
TravelerWe really liked this campground. Sites were pretty well spread out, it was quiet, there were lots of trails to take our dogs on. We saw lots of mountain bikers, must be biking paradise too!
ScoutNice campground. Bathhouse is basic but very clean. Sites are on the small side with lots of tent campers.
TravelerThe site was level, trails to hike, clean park but a little pricey.
TravelerCamped in f150 with RTT, stayed at site 13 with plenty of room for any overlanding or tent campers. Sites 1-5 fairly close in section 1. Sites 6-13 good for tent or overlanding, sites 14-21 are clumped together at the end for tent/overlanding rig/campers. Small creek crossing, but very easy to cross. We saw a few trailer campers, nothing over 20 feet, and there was plenty of room, but the road is rough coming in, so doable if you’re brave.
Road is marked well off the main road, but is narrow with few pull off opportunities for passing. 1 mile of blacktop with 1* mile of hard pack gravel.
Single vault bathrooms and bear trash cans are at sites 1-5 and another at site 14-21, 5-10 minute walk either way from middle campsites.
Fire rings and picnic tables, well marked sites.
Site 22 is the last site we could find before crossing a more cumbersome creek crossing, just above sites 17-21. Creek accessible from most every campsite, with a few of the sites on the other side of ride (see rec.gov for waterfront specific sites)
Busy road for motorcycles/off road vehicles, but overall peaceful.
Reservations required, no service until almost back to town, so reserve ahead before heading to camp. Cash/envelope/paper tag system no longer present (seems to be the new norm)
GuideThe park is in a great location near Greenville and it's beautiful, but there are things to consider. It's a small campground with just a few sites. Many of which are not even close to level and they're all fairly small. In addition, the road is narrow and winding, so overall it's not the best choice for .medium to large rvs. The bathroom/ shower was clean but the stall door locks are both broken so the doors don't close. The staff is very nice and it's very peaceful. It's a great park for tent camping or small rvs like teardrops. There aren't many camping options near Greenville. I hope the state invests in upgrades for this valuable park.
ScoutThe camp host was unprofessional, rude, and threatened to call the sheriffs department because he said we were talking too loud. We were not loud and are filing a complaint. We have been coming here for years but will not pay to be treated this way.
ScoutOur tent camping trip at Black Rock Mountain State Park was absolutely beautiful. The park sits high in the mountains and offers incredible views, peaceful surroundings, and the kind of quiet that makes you slow down and really enjoy nature.
The campground itself was well kept, and everything felt organized and welcoming. One thing that really stood out was how friendly and helpful the staff were. Everyone we interacted with was kind and made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived.
The bathrooms were very clean, which always makes a big difference when you’re tent camping. It’s clear the park staff takes pride in maintaining the facilities.
Between the fresh mountain air, scenic views, and peaceful atmosphere, it was the perfect place to unplug and enjoy the outdoors. We would absolutely come back again and recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing mountain camping experience. 🏕️🌄
ScoutBig Rig friendly. Clean well managed
TravelerFour sites, only one will take a small camper under 18 feet. Tent sites in need of maintenance..
Camping near Pickens, South Carolina offers varied terrain with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 3,400 feet across multiple state parks and recreation areas. The region experiences mild winters with occasional snow at higher elevations and humid summers with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through August. Most primitive sites require advanced reservations with seasonal availability limited at certain campgrounds during winter months.
Waterfall hunting: 4 miles from Devils Fork State Park you'll find accessible cascades with swimming opportunities. "There are many waterfalls in the area and many places to hike. There are a couple of small towns not far away and Greenville isn't a long drive," notes one Table Rock State Park visitor.
Mountain biking: 25 minutes from Mile Creek County Park leads to extensive trail systems. "We also learned this is some really amazing mountain biking 25 minutes away in the Clemson Experimental Forest... the Isaqueena Trail system. Ranges from easy/intermediate to advanced when you get to the lower waterfall area in the southern part of the forest," reports a Mile Creek County Park camper.
Paddling: Lake Keowee access offers clear water recreation with multiple entry points. "The lake is gorgeous. Boat ramp and trailer parking. Kayak rentals available," notes a visitor at Devils Fork State Park.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more separation than others. "Sites are wooded and spaced far enough apart that you barely see or hear neighbors," explains a camper at Black Forest Family Camping Resort.
Water proximity: Many sites feature direct lake access. "Each campsite has wonderful views of the water. There is a playground by the entrance and near the farthest campsites as well," shares a camper from Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell.
Cabin accommodations: Options range from rustic to full-amenity structures. "The cabin itself was very well kept. There was air conditioning, 2 bedrooms, 1 full kitchen, 1 full bathroom, and a fire place," describes a visitor at Oconee State Park.
Reservation timing: Popular sites book months in advance. "We booked our trip in February so we got all the spots we wanted. We had 5 spots in a culdesac surrounded by the lake on all sides," shares a Mile Creek County Park camper.
Site leveling challenges: Mountain terrain creates uneven spots. "Liked the campground. No amenities per day except bathroom/showers. Nice large sites but very unlevel due to mountain side. Would not stay again because we were so unlevel our refrigerator wouldn't work," warns a visitor at Paris Mountain State Park.
Weather variability: Prepare for rapid changes, especially at higher elevations. "Make sure that if you hike during the winter to give yourself plenty of time to finish the trail and to wear good trail shoes since ice can be expected," advises a Table Rock State Park camper.
Look for water-based recreation: Beaches and swimming areas provide entertainment. "We loved our stay here! Highly recommend a trip here during late fall season, the weather was perfect and it wasn't crowded. Bathrooms were very clean and easy to access," reports a visitor at Mile Creek County Park.
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Some sites offer multiple play areas. "There are 3 trailside primitive campsites that are on a peninsula overlooking Lake Keowee. Although only one of them is considered on the shore, they are all within walking distance (down a little hill) from the shore," explains a visitor at Keowee-Toxaway State Park.
Consider short hiking options: Trails under 1 mile work best for young children. "This is a great campsite for 1st time backpackers. The site is approximately 1 mile from the state park office. The trail is moderately difficult with lots of rocks," shares a Jones Gap State Park visitor.
Road access limitations: Some campgrounds have narrow approach roads. "The road through the park back to the campground is pretty narrow at some points - we don't know how we would have managed if we had met another RV! We have a 31' Class A and we managed fine, but I did hear some people with larger trailers having a harder time," warns a Paris Mountain State Park visitor.
Water pressure varies: Bring pressure regulators when camping in the area. "Pleasant campground, lots of room between sites. The water pressure was not satisfactory and we couldn't take showers in our camper," notes a Black Forest Family Camping Resort visitor.
Site selection matters: Research carefully before booking. "We walked the next branch of the campsite which was not open, and found that sites 3-24 are much more to our liking with regards to elbow room and privacy. Our next trip to this park will be on that branch," advises a visitor at Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the popular campgrounds near Pickens, SC?
The Pickens area offers several outstanding campgrounds within a short drive. Table Rock State Park Campground is a favorite, offering access to stunning mountain hiking trails and full amenities. It serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions like Caesar's Head. Another popular option is Paris Mountain State Park Campground, known for its scenic setting, level campsites, and clean facilities. Both parks showcase the natural beauty of South Carolina's mountains while providing comfortable camping experiences.
What tent camping options are available in the Pickens area?
Tent campers near Pickens have excellent options to choose from. Oconee State Park Campground offers beautiful tent sites in a mountainous setting with access to multiple hiking trails. The park provides a genuine outdoor experience while still maintaining amenities tent campers appreciate. For those willing to drive a bit further, Mount Pisgah Campground in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville offers a cool mountain retreat with gorgeous scenery. Both locations provide the perfect backdrop for an authentic tent camping adventure.
Are there any camping spots with lake access near Pickens?
Mile Creek County Park offers exceptional lake access camping near Pickens. Located on a series of connected islands surrounded by water, most sites provide stunning views of Lake Keowee with the Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop. For another great lakeside option, Devils Fork State Park Campground sits on Lake Jocassee, often called the "Caribbean of South Carolina" due to its crystal-clear waters. The park offers excellent facilities and water recreation opportunities including boat rentals for exploring the lake.
Are there any campgrounds with swimming pools near Pickens?
Willow Valley RV Resort offers a swimming pool among its amenities and is accessible from the Pickens area. This family-friendly campground features 80 graveled sites that accommodate RVs, along with facilities like a playground, basketball court, and laundry services. While a bit of a drive from Pickens, it's worth considering for those specifically wanting pool access. Lake Hartwell State Park Campground doesn't have a pool but offers swimming in the lake as an alternative, with easy access from I-85, making it convenient for campers looking for water recreation.
Keep Exploring
