Located 20 miles northeast of Greenville in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greer offers diverse camping options ranging from RV parks to state forests with primitive sites. The area sits at elevations between 950 and 1,100 feet, creating moderate temperatures that extend the camping season from early spring through late fall. Campgrounds near Greer typically report high weekend occupancy rates from May through September, with midweek stays more readily available.
What to Do
Mountain biking at Paris Mountain State Park: Campers can access multiple trail systems suitable for various skill levels. "This is a great dog friendly park with clean trails, plenty of parking, and friendly staff. Now is the time to go as it is less crowded and the leaves are changing color," notes Maddi P. about Paris Mountain State Park Campground.
Fishing at Croft State Park: The lake and streams within the park offer bass and trout fishing opportunities with South Carolina fishing licenses required. "We camped here for a few days and loved this park. Plenty of hiking and fishing. We did not have to leave the park for anything," shares Creighton C. about Croft State Park Campground.
Waterfall hikes at Table Rock: The park features several trails leading to waterfalls within reasonable hiking distance. "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," explains John B. who camped at Table Rock State Park.
What Campers Like
Private, secluded campsites at Jones Gap: The park's walk-in sites offer more privacy than typical campgrounds. "The spots are clean and well maintained. As you're in a state park, you have the added benefit of a fire ring and tent pad... each spot is about a quart mile from the next, so you feel like you have the mountain to yourself," states Emily S. about Jones Gap State Park Campground.
River access for cooling off: Many campsites provide direct access to streams and rivers. "Jones Gap gives you the feeling of really being deep in the Appalachians. The rushing river and dense foliage with tons of mountain laurel makes the air seem so fresh. I love just coming here and hiking upstream and playing in the river," shares John R. about Jones Gap State Park.
Extremely clean facilities at several parks: Multiple campgrounds maintain above-average cleanliness standards. "Very pretty campground in the fall. Operators live onsite and were friendly. Bathhouses were very clean, but the lights are on motion detectors which weren't sensitive enough to pick you up in the shower," notes a camper at Travelers Rest-North Greenville KOA.
What You Should Know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Greer region have uneven terrain. "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," explains Cindy R. about Paris Mountain State Park Campground.
Seasonal crowding at popular parks: Reservations are essential during peak times. "This is a good campground if you are trying to enjoy the Pisgah National Forest. This area has become over run with tourists and the 'free' campsites have mostly been comandeered by squatters who rotate from site to site every 14 days," advises Anna R. about Davidson River Campground.
Limited primitive camping options: Most established campgrounds cater to RVs and developed camping. "Jones Gap 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," notes Fain H., highlighting one of the few walk-in tent camping options near Greer.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water recreation options for kids: Several parks offer swimming and boating opportunities. "We stayed 2 nights. We went kayaking and swimming daily. There is a slide in the middle of the pond that my son loved. When it rained the game room had a movie on and lots to do inside," shares Amanda M. about Orchard Lake Campground.
Choose campgrounds with dedicated play areas: Some parks feature specialized recreation facilities for children. "This is a great campground to camp with ur family. They have swimming, a little zip line. My then 7 year old played on it all day they even have a game room," reports Renee R. about Orchard Lake Campground.
Short hiking trails for younger children: Look for parks with easier trail options. "Variety of campsites available to suit any camping style. Great for families, as there are drive up camp sites with fire pits and plenty of space, and spread out so it still feels like you have privacy. Lots of great hikes," recommends Clair M. about Table Rock State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for level parking: Choose sites carefully to avoid leveling issues. "We were in Site 31 and were able to get level with no issues. The park has a lot of trails and scenery and is a great place for riding a bike. All in all, pretty campground that is super peaceful," advises a camper at Travelers Rest-North Greenville KOA.
Pet-friendly camping infrastructure: Look for parks with designated dog areas. "This is a well-maintained park with very friendly staff and guests. Spacious dog park, fresh gravel in the spots, fire pit area with string lights," mentions Matthew B. about GSP RV Park, highlighting amenities for pet owners near Greer, South Carolina.
Campground accessibility issues: Some parks have challenging access 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," cautions a camper at Travelers Rest-North Greenville KOA.
