Tent campsites near Greenville, South Carolina range from primitive river spots to secluded mountain sites within 30-60 minutes of the city. The elevation of camping areas varies from around 1,000 feet to over 3,000 feet in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, creating temperature differences of 5-10 degrees cooler than Greenville proper. Most primitive sites in the region require campers to carry gear distances between 0.25-0.5 miles, with some backcountry options requiring longer hikes of 1-2 miles.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Several tent camping areas near Greenville offer access to local waterfalls within short hiking distances. At Burrells Ford, campers can take "a short hike to King Creek Falls" which includes crossing "a log footbridge" and navigating "a huge downed tree" as noted by reviewer Myron C. The falls area provides cooling relief during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
Trout fishing: The cold mountain streams around Greenville offer productive fishing opportunities directly from campsites. Jason D. mentions that Burrells Ford sites are "right on the Chatooga River" which is "stocked with trout" and notes that "fishing license is required but both SC and GA are acceptable as the river is the state line."
Hiking trail networks: Multiple trail systems interconnect throughout the camping areas surrounding Greenville. The Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area Trailside Camping gives access to "wonderful trails with breath taking views and technical climbs," according to Maddi P., who adds that the area stands out as somewhere she "recommend[s] to all of my camping and hiking friends."
What campers like
River sound and scenery: Tent campers consistently mention the calming effects of waterside camping spots. At Jones Gap State Park Campground, Kevin G. describes the experience at site #10, saying "It sits about 50 yards up the hill from the main river running through the valley" and "The river is a great soundtrack for a nights sleep."
Site privacy and spacing: Unlike developed campgrounds, the walk-in tent sites around Greenville provide unusual levels of seclusion. Emily S. notes that at Jones Gap, "unlike other state park campgrounds, each spot is about a quart mile from the next, so you feel like you have the mountain to yourself. Awesome place!"
Proximity to water sources: Many tent sites are positioned to provide both scenic value and practical water access. Sara M. describes her Jones Gap site as a "Gorgeous site, a bit chilly by the river but beautiful and close enough to still use the park bathrooms!" She also mentions the helpful staff and clean facilities despite the primitive nature of the camping.
What you should know
Trail difficulty to sites: Access trails to tent sites vary considerably in difficulty. Pine Point Primitive Campground at Table Rock offers an "easy half mile, on a trail, with slight ups and downs," according to Kirsten J., who advises "I don't recommend rolling anything down the trail (no stroller, wagon, etc.) but instead, be ready for a short walk."
Limited facilities: Most tent sites have minimal amenities. Myron C. reports that at Pine Point, "It is advisable to take your own water since the nearest water is almost a half mile away. There is a fire pit, a picnic table, a lantern pole, and a tent pad."
Weekend crowding: Popular areas can become busy during peak times. At Burrells Ford, RC S. observes that "During peak season (summer, Spring Break) it will be slightly crowded, but there's usually still room to camp and it doesn't normally get rowdy or loud." They also note that "If there has been a lot of camper traffic, it will be difficult to find firewood."
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for kids: Some tent sites are more suitable for families with young children. Laura C. specifically recommends Jones Gap's spot #8 as "the closest walk in spot from the Parking area," noting "We were able to hike in a ton of gear (coolers, dog bed, etc (with a little work and a few trips) and it was worth it for the seclusiveness. Having both toddler and dog we knew we couldn't go far but this still felt like we were in the middle of nowhere."
Stream safety: Mountain streams can pose hazards, especially after rain. When visiting Asbury Hills Camp, Maggie J. cautions that visitors should "not take dogs that can't swim across the river; we saw a few couples who struggled to carry their pooches across the cable."
Education opportunities: Many camping areas include natural features that engage children. Diana C. notes that Jones Gap "ranger station has a nice picnic area with a little store, a bath house with flush toilets and hot showers, and an old retired fish hatchery to explore."
Tips from RVers
RV restrictions: Most primitive camping areas near Greenville aren't suitable for RVs. At Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area, Candy H. warns the area is "Not big rig friendly" and has a "Small campground loop" with "Forested and moderately strenuous hiking trails."
Alternative camping styles: Some locations near Greenville offer both tent and cabin options. At Wilderness Cove Campground, Dave reported that his family split their stay with "2 nights in tents and 2 in a River Cottage" and found that "The tent camping is not quite 'roughing it': there's pretty reliable WiFi and the bath house is air conditioned and kept very clean."
