Lee State Park features equestrian facilities about 20 minutes from Florence, South Carolina, with level, gravel campsites for visitors with or without horses. The park offers multiple trail systems connecting to camping areas, making it convenient for riders to access the surrounding woodland terrain. Insects are prevalent during warmer months due to the equestrian focus.
What to do
Explore woodland trails: At Lee State Park Campground, visitors can walk the short boardwalk area while enjoying natural features. "Nice short boardwalk area to explore. Loved the spring water," notes camper Tara M., highlighting one of the park's natural attractions.
Visit the artesian wells: These natural water features provide a unique geological experience within the park boundaries. "Check out the artesian wells and other nature spots," recommends camper Eddie, who found these natural features worthwhile despite the park's simplicity.
Attend special events: Seasonal entertainment occasionally enhances the camping experience. As one visitor mentioned, "there was a old timey band that played the night we arrived," providing unexpected cultural entertainment during their stay.
What campers like
Family-friendly environment: Cheraw State Park Campground receives praise for its accommodating atmosphere. "This location is small but big on activities for you and your family," notes Bryan H., who plans to return in autumn.
Lake access: Water features enhance several camping areas in the region. "The lake is beautiful. Awesome walking trail that takes you to the other side of the lake where there is a playground," shares Sara M., who appreciated these amenities during winter camping when the park was less crowded.
Wildlife viewing: Horse sightings provide a unique camping experience. "Was wonderful to wake up and see the horses. Also dog friendly which is a plus," reports Lauren V., who appreciated the animal-friendly environment.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the region maintain adequate spacing. At Cheraw State Park, "It felt very private even though there were people all around," according to MaryAnn P., who appreciated the sense of seclusion despite the campground being at capacity.
What you should know
Insect management: Summer brings increased insect activity, particularly at equestrian facilities. "Ok if you have never stayed with horses you can not be prepared for the flyes. they were swarms of them," cautions Swain K., emphasizing the correlation between horses and fly populations.
Weather considerations: Winter camping offers reduced crowds and continued access to natural features. At Cheraw State Park, one visitor noted, "Super cheap. We stayed four nights for under $100," highlighting the off-season value.
Bathroom facilities: Campground bathhouses receive consistent maintenance. "Bath house were clean and well maintained. Enjoyed my stay," reports Mitch M., confirming the upkeep of essential facilities.
Limited nearby amenities: Some parks have minimal commercial services. "Not much around the campground though. If you want peace and quiet, and don't need shopping or touristy stuff- this is for you," advises John, noting the remote nature of certain facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Utilize lake amenities: H. Cooper Black offers water features that enhance family outings. "Neat surprise. Pleasant primitive site now, overlooking ponds, meadows, forest," shares Phil R., describing the varied landscape that provides natural entertainment.
Consider group camping areas: Specialized group sites offer different experiences. "We stayed in the camp juniper group area this time, but have camped in the regular campground in the past," explains Trina W., noting that while group areas may lack direct lake access or bathrooms, they worked well for organized youth groups.
Pack for insects: Summer camping requires insect preparation, especially for children. "Only drawback would be this park is an equestrian park so you will most likely encounter flies during the warmer months," warns Eddie, suggesting families prepare accordingly.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: H. Cooper Black Jr. Field Trial Area provides comprehensive services for recreational vehicles. "The campground has full hookups and they have made lots of improvements the last few years and most are level and shaded," explains Brenda L., noting recent upgrades.
Site leveling: Terrain varies across regional campgrounds. "Sites were gravel and level," confirms Mitch M., indicating minimal setup challenges for motor homes or travel trailers.
Access considerations: Some parks have challenging interior roads. "Rough 'roads' inside park with big ruts that filled with rain," cautions Christina, who still found the destination worthwhile despite access challenges during their four-night stay.
