Equestrian enthusiasts seeking horse camping near Blythewood, South Carolina will find limited options within the immediate area. Blythewood sits at approximately 450 feet above sea level in the Sandhill region, characterized by gently rolling terrain and pine forests. While dedicated horse corrals aren't available at most nearby campgrounds, several parks offer trail access and camping facilities that can accommodate visitors bringing their own portable containment systems.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Sesquicentennial State Park in Columbia offers multiple trails through pine forests about 10 miles from Blythewood. One camper notes, "I love the bike and hiking trails. Very nice area to kayak in, I love all the Lilly pads" (Tara M.). The park has over 12 miles of trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
Water recreation: Cane Creek Park in Waxhaw provides lake activities just 35 miles from Blythewood. A regular visitor shares, "I load up my kayak once a month or so and paddle around the lake for hours. Trails, shelter areas, and bathrooms are always well taken care of" (Emily B.). The park rents kayaks and canoes during summer months.
Disc golf: Chester State Park Campground features a championship disc golf course about 45 miles from Blythewood. A recent visitor confirms, "Small clean campground...Very nice trail along the lake perimeter and Championship Disc golf course" (Keith K.). The 18-hole course winds through wooded terrain and offers free play with your own equipment.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Sesquicentennial State Park Campground offers quiet camping despite being in Columbia. A camper remarks, "Set in the woods, making it easy to forget you're in Columbia! Quiet, lots of birds in the spring. Easy drive to Congaree, which we highly recommend" (Clean Slate D.). Sites are spaced to provide buffer between neighbors.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. At Cane Creek Park, campers appreciate that "The bathhouse is in good shape and clean" (Robert D.). Another camper mentions, "Clean bathrooms and hot showers" (David E.), making this a reliable option for those wanting basic comforts.
Family activities: Parks offer recreation beyond horse trails. One visitor to Sesquicentennial notes, "There is a small water play area for children. They have paddle boats also" (Ruth J.). The splash pad operates seasonally from late May through early September with lifeguards on weekends.
What you should know
No dedicated horse facilities: While several parks permit horses on trails, none of the campgrounds near Blythewood offer dedicated horse corrals or equestrian camping facilities. Some campgrounds like Lee State Park have horse trails but require bringing your own containment systems.
Seasonal considerations: Summer camping comes with challenges. One camper at Lee State Park warns, "Only drawback would be this park is an equestrian park so you will most likely encounter flies during the warmer months" (eddie). Bug spray with DEET is essential during warmer seasons.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. A Cane Creek visitor notes, "This campground is owned by Union County, NC with a good rate for residents. As such, it can be difficult to get in at times and usually requires a reservation well in advance" (Rick B.). Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead for weekend stays.
Tips for camping with families
Free recreation options: Cane Creek Park offers complimentary activities for children. As one parent shares, "The mini golf is free and a blast. The swim area is only open on Saturdays or you can drive to the day use side and be over there" (Sarah B.). This makes budget-friendly family outings possible.
Unplugged experiences: Brick House Campground provides a more primitive setting for families wanting to disconnect. A group leader recounts, "I took a group of 8 wild middle schoolers here and we had a blast hiking the trails, boating, and unplugging for a while!" (CeCelia L.). The campground has no cell service in many areas.
Level sites: When tent camping with kids, seek out flatter ground. One camper advises, "Tent campers would have a hard time finding a suitable site that would not be too rocky" at Chester State Park (Myron C.). Request specific site recommendations when making reservations.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Most established campgrounds near Blythewood offer electric and water. A visitor to Sesquicentennial notes, "Busy park, but if you're visiting the Columbia area a fine place to stop. They have a dog park and our pup loved getting to run off leash. Campsites are pretty close together and some are a little on top of each other but we were in spot 79. It was a pull through and the living space was separated a bit more" (Anna).
Military options: Active duty and retired military personnel have additional camping choices. Falcons Nest FamCamp in Sumter offers affordable stays. One camper reports, "Very nice campground. Lots of trees. Must have access to Shaw afb to stay. $20 per night. No long term prices. No stay limit" (Jeff B.). Valid military ID required for entry.
