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Best Campgrounds in South Carolina

2,273 Reviews

With four distinct geographical environments, South Carolina offers a wide variety of terrain, natural history, and climate in one relatively small state. With the option to drive from the mountains to the Atlantic coast in a few hours, camping in South Carolina is a great choice for those who want variety without a ton of travel time.

The state’s far northwest corner is home to mountains that rise above the foothills, appearing blue against the horizon. The Blue Ridge, arguably the most famous stretch of the Appalachians, provide a welcome respite from the hot South Carolina summers. In autumn, The Blue Ridge Mountains draw visitors from around the country to take in the breathtaking fall displays of color across the mountainsides. And no matter what season, camping in South Carolina would not be complete without a trip to iconic Table Rock or Sassafras Mountain – the highest point in the SC Blue Ridge Mountains.

A few hours south of the Blue Ridge, campers can set sail on Lake Murray, enjoy world-renowned fishing, or enjoy beach-front camping at Dreher Island State Park. The lake, a reservoir for the entire midlands area of the state, covers roughly 50000 acres and has 500 miles of shoreline. Lake Murray, which is a prime spot for fishing, has hosted 3 national fishing tournaments in the last 15 years and is home to several species of bass, crappie, bream, and other sport fishing favorites.

The stunning South Carolina coast is less than 3 hours from state capitol, Columbia, and boasts more than 200 miles of Atlantic coastline beauty. With more campgrounds up and down the coast than you can shake a stick at, trust The Dyrt to help you find the best camping in South Carolina!

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Best Camping Sites in South Carolina (347)

    1. Myrtle Beach State Park Campground

    94 Reviews
    Myrtle Beach, SC
    Website
    +1 (843) 238-5325

    $35 - $75 / night

    "We'd never been to South Carolina before and had no idea what to expect. We were thoroughly smitten with the coast and the city of Myrtle Beach, but we really loved camping in the state park."

    "All of them have electric hook ups, a fire pit, picnic bench and close by water spigots. Unfortunately some of the campsites are very small and close together."

    2. Huntington Beach State Park Campground

    75 Reviews
    Murrells Inlet, SC
    Website
    +1 (843) 237-4440

    $95 / night

    "One of the cleanest campgrounds I’ve been to in South Carolina. And only a short walk from the beach"

    "Huntington Beach State Park South Carolina. Stayed a week. Great campground. Trails, easy access to the most amazing beach. The nicest washroom facilities and laundry."

    3. Edisto Beach State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Edisto Island, SC
    Website
    +1 (843) 869-2756

    "It's South Carolina in the summer, so there are mosquitoes."

    "The campsite pad has a plug and faucet right next to you and you're on the other side of a sand dune from the beach. The restrooms are close by to every site."

    4. Hunting Island State Park Campground

    64 Reviews
    Edisto Island, SC
    Website
    +1 (843) 838-2011

    "First South Carolina camp."

    "Campground Review: We cycled, kayaked, hiked and watched gorgeous sunrises over the Atlantic at this beautiful campground on the coast of South Carolina."

    5. Campground at James Island County Park

    59 Reviews
    Folly Beach, SC
    Website
    +1 (843) 795-4386

    $43 - $269 / night

    "When making reservations at James Island County Park we had modest expectations, but we were going to tour Charleston most of the time, so we decided anything close to the city would be good enough."

    "The park does allow pets and has a dog park with a beach; it seems like the pups were having a marvelous time playing chase on the beach.This is a County Park with trails for walking or leisure biking."

    6. Table Rock State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    Sunset, SC
    Website
    +1 (864) 878-9813

    "The cabins have all of the amenities that you need for a week of hiking, biking, and exploring the South Carolina mountains. It's close to Caesar's Head or Dupont Forest."

    "South Carolina SPs currently have a ban on bringing in firewood, forcing me to buy some at the camp store, leading to my only criticism: The wood was still very green and required significant work to get"

    7. Ocean Lakes Family Campground

    53 Reviews
    Jamestown, SC
    Website
    +1 (843) 238-5636

    "Playgrounds, summer concerts, dining etc is close by too. It buts up against Myrtle Beach Resort so our friends stayed there while we camped sometimes."

    "We just finished our stay at Ocean Lakes Family Campground in Myrtle Beach, SC. We enjoyed it and will return."

    8. Devils Fork State Park Campground

    51 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    Website
    +1 (864) 944-2639

    "The lake is amazing and it is called the Caribbean of South Carolina for a reason."

    "There are few places in the southeast that are as beautiful as the crystal-clear waters of Lake Jocassee!"

    9. Pirateland Family Camping Resort

    54 Reviews
    Jamestown, SC
    Website
    +1 (843) 238-5155

    "It is situated right next to the beach. There is an indoor pool and a big splash park on the grounds. There is a big shower house, laundry facility, and an arcade club house."

    "It Is All About Close Proximity To The Beach (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

    (71 yr olds in 17’ trailer with a desire for a campsite that has at least some visual privacy - after the trailer is in the spot"

    10. Dreher Island State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Chapin, SC
    Website
    +1 (803) 364-4152

    "This campground is a popular spot in South Carolina. Campsites are pretty close together but it's usually peaceful - lakeside sites, good fishing, but be prepared for the mosquitos!"

    "In my never-ending quest to discover the most perfect campground haven, after a rather intense amount of research, I landed on Dreher Island smack dab in the very center of South Carolina, where my daughter"

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Recent Camping Photos in South Carolina

687 Photos of 347 South Carolina Campgrounds

Recent Reviews in South Carolina

2273 Reviews of 347 South Carolina Campgrounds

Guide to South Carolina

Camping in South Carolina offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in this charming state.

What to do

  • Explore the lakes: Many campgrounds, like Dreher Island State Park Campground, are right by the water. Campers love the chance to kayak and fish. One reviewer said, “We spent 90% of our time on the lake swimming, paddle-boarding, and kayaking.”
  • Hiking and biking: Trails are abundant, especially at places like Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park. A visitor noted, “There are a couple of hiking trails and a short nature trail, both accessible from the Islanders Camp Circle.”
  • Wildlife watching: Campers often spot various birds and other wildlife. One camper at Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park mentioned, “Great day adventure... the nature facility provides knowledge of the area and the wildlife.”

What campers like

  • Scenic views: Campgrounds like Lake Wateree State Park Campground offer stunning waterfront sites. A happy camper shared, “Site #1 on the lake. Level paved driveway lots of shade. Great campground.”
  • Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Poinsett State Park Campground said, “The toilets were CLEAN! And I mean we were there for 24 hours and the bathroom was cleaned at least twice.”
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention helpful rangers and hosts. A visitor at Colleton State Park Campground noted, “The rangers are very helpful and the camp host was terrific.”

What you should know

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Brick House Campground, have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, “There is no running water. The closest water is 5 or 6 miles in either direction, so pack plenty.”
  • Seasonal crowds: Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. One camper at Santee Lakes KOA said, “Very crowded and was a one-night stop for many RVs!!”
  • Weather considerations: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. A camper at Dreher Island State Park Campground shared, “There was a big storm for about an hour after we set up camp, but the site drained well.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids, like playgrounds. One reviewer at Sesquicentennial State Park Campground mentioned, “Has a splash pad and kayak rentals.”
  • Plan activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. A camper at Cypress View Campground noted, “The campground has hiking/biking trails. Lake views from our site.”
  • Pack snacks: Having food on hand can make family camping easier. One camper at Lake Wateree State Park Campground said, “Not much near the site for supplies so bring your supplies if possible.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A visitor at Andrew Jackson State Park Campground mentioned, “Sites are paved, but don’t expect completely level.”
  • Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Colleton State Park Campground offer full hookups, which many RVers appreciate. A camper said, “Every site is full hookup.”
  • Be mindful of road conditions: Some campgrounds have rough roads. A reviewer at Poinsett State Park Campground noted, “Roads were really heavy with potholes, so not the friendliest for RVs.”

Camping in South Carolina is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful scenery!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in South Carolina?

According to TheDyrt.com, South Carolina offers a wide range of camping options, with 347 campgrounds and RV parks in South Carolina and 15 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in South Carolina?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in South Carolina is Myrtle Beach State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 94 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in South Carolina?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots in South Carolina.

What are the best parks in South Carolina?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 463 parks in South Carolina that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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