Camping near Irmo, South Carolina offers diverse options within a region known for its mixed pine-hardwood forests and moderate climate averaging 215 sunny days per year. The area sits at elevations between 200-350 feet above sea level, creating accessible terrain for various camping styles. Several campgrounds accommodate equestrians, though specific facilities and restrictions vary throughout the region.
What to do
Disc golf at Chester State Park: This small campground features a championship disc golf course alongside its scenic lake setting. "There is a paved walkway down to the lake to a sitting area and a dock," notes Myron C. about Chester State Park Campground.
Kayaking and paddling: The lakes near Irmo provide excellent flat-water paddling opportunities. At Sesquicentennial State Park, campers appreciate the accessible water recreation: "Very nice area to kayak in, I love all the Lilly pads," mentions Tara M. about Sesquicentennial State Park Campground.
Hiking forest trails: The Sumter National Forest contains multiple trail networks. At Brick House Campground, Jacob L. notes the convenient trail access: "Spent new years at site 16 and it was a little damp due to a heavy rain but a great site. Mostly away from everyone and was right next to a 9 mile loop hiking trail."
What campers like
Unexpected urban proximity: Despite feeling remote, some parks are surprisingly accessible to urban amenities. "Built to celebrate the Sesquicentennial of South Carolina in the 30's. At one time on the furthest outskirts of Columbia SC. It is now firmly in the muddle of the Metro area," explains J Terrell M.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region typically maintain their restrooms well. At Lake Greenwood State Park, Barry B. observed: "Restroom/bath houses are never far off, and we're clean, with 2 shower stalls each. Almost every camper there had big pull behinds, so they have their own showers, leaving the bath houses mostly private."
Affordable camping options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the national forest campgrounds. One camper at Brick House Campground noted: "5.00 to me is great for the peace and quiet," while another mentioned it's "cheap primitive camping with several RV pull-throughs."
What you should know
Horse facilities limitations: For equestrian camping near Irmo, South Carolina, facilities vary widely. Woods Ferry Campground includes horse-specific amenities: "Woods Ferry is a campground mainly for campers who have horses. There are corrals at many of the campsites," reports Myron C. about Woods Ferry Campground.
Weather considerations: South Carolina summers can be challenging for tent campers. "Since South Carolina is hot during this time of year, I was a bit uncomfortable, especially since I was on a slope," notes one Woods Ferry camper, highlighting the importance of site selection.
Military-only options: Some campgrounds restrict access to military personnel. At Falcons Nest FamCamp, Jeff B. clarifies: "Must have access to Shaw afb to stay. $20 per night. No long term prices. No stay limit."
Tips for camping with families
Water play opportunities: Children enjoy the water features at many parks. Ruth J. mentions: "I love going to this campground, I enjoy doing the trails and spotting dear. And there is a small water play area for children. They have paddle boats also."
Group activities: The parks accommodate educational outings. CeCelia L. shares: "I took a group of 8 wild middle schoolers here and we had a blast hiking the trails, boating, and unplugging for a while!"
Wildlife viewing: Lake Greenwood State Park offers accessible nature experiences. According to Frankie E., "My family loves this campground! It's clean and has a Great Lake to swim in," making it suitable for families wanting water recreation.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Sesquicentennial, campers suggest specific sites: "We were in spot 79. It was a pull through and the living space was separated a bit more. It was across from the bathhouse which is quite convenient."
Utilities and hookups: Most campgrounds provide varied hookup options. Keith K. observes at Chester State Park: "Stayed 1 night, sites are close to each other. Small cabins available, walk-in campsites and restrooms are clean and updated."
