Tent camping opportunities near Simpsonville, South Carolina provide access to the foothills region of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with elevations ranging from 900 to 3,500 feet. The area receives approximately 50 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forests and numerous streams. Weather can change rapidly in the mountain areas, with temperature differences of 10-15 degrees between valley camps and higher elevation sites.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: Jones Gap State Park offers several waterfall hikes from tent camping areas. "Check out Rainbow Falls a 90ft free falling waterfall that's about 2 1/2 miles from the campsites," notes a camper at Jones Gap State Park Campground.
Trail connections: Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area connects to larger trail systems. A camper at Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area Trailside Camping mentions, "My friend and I hiked the Raven Cliff Falls loop trail a while back and have added it to our list of top 10 favorite trails. I was really bummed about the removal of the cable crossing, but still loved the trail due to climbing ladders and walking along The Cathedral!"
Fishing access: Many campgrounds offer direct fishing opportunities. At Pine Point Primitive Campground, "The tent sites are close to the lake, and the site that I chose has a short trail down to it through the woods. However, it is a steep trail, and once you get down to it, the only thing you will be able to do is look at it or fish in it."
Water activities: Lake Jocassee provides clear water recreation options. A visitor to Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area shares, "Clean and clear water like we haven't experienced before. Beautiful water falls! Also Nicely taken care of facilities!"
What campers like
River sounds: Camping near moving water creates natural ambiance. A Jones Gap camper reported, "The river is a great soundtrack for a nights sleep," while another mentioned the site was "gorgeous, a bit chilly by the river but beautiful."
Site spacing: Many tent sites offer genuine seclusion from neighbors. At Sedalia Campground, a camper noted it's "Nice, quiet campground. Has fire pit and access to running water. No picnic tables and has vaulted toilets. But very nice place to get away from stress of life."
Flat tent pads: Several primitive sites feature properly leveled camping surfaces. A review of Pine Point Primitive Campground mentioned, "Best of all the remote sites had FLAT tent pads, which always make for a better night sleep!"
Accessibility without crowds: Wilderness feels without difficult access. A tent camper at Denver Downs Farm reported, "Very well maintained. We came here on Thanksgiving weekend because all other campgrounds were full. We were the only people here."
What you should know
Water planning required: Many tent camping areas near Simpsonville have limited water access. At Pine Point, "It is advisable to take your own water since the nearest water is almost a half mile away."
Varying terrain challenges: Some sites require careful navigation. A visitor to Asbury Hills Summer Camps noted, "My word of advice is to not take dogs that can't swim across the river; we saw a few couples who struggled to carry their pooches across the cable."
Bathroom facilities vary: Plan for primitive facilities or none at all. A camper at Sedalia mentioned it "has vaulted toilets," while another noted Pine Point requires significant walking: "There is one pit toilet for this campground, and from my site, it is almost a half mile away."
Weather preparedness essential: Mountain weather can change quickly. A Mountain Bridge visitor warned, "I strongly suggest wearing waterproof hiking boots/trail runners as there is lots of water on the trail and because the Dismal Trail is a steep climb to the lookout."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shorter access trails: Families with young children benefit from easier approaches. A camper at Jones Gap shared, "Love the privacy of this spot (#8) which is the closest walk in spot from the Parking area. We were able to hike in a ton of gear (coolers, dog bed, etc.) with a little work and a few trips."
Look for natural play features: Water access provides entertainment. A Jones Gap visitor noted, "Spot is right on the river and a great place to catch some sun on the rocks or rock hop. There are several hike options right from your site including a nice little waterfall."
Consider hunting seasons: Some campgrounds see increased use during hunting periods. A Sedalia camper warned, "Hunters use it a lot. Fall deer hunters spring turkey hunting. Often gets packed."
Check for group areas: Some campgrounds offer dedicated spaces for family gatherings. A Sedalia visitor mentioned, "There is a spacious grassy area in the middle of the campsites for whatever activities you want to engage in. There is also a large, separate grassy area for group camping."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Simpsonville aren't suitable for larger RVs. A visitor to Jocassee Gorges noted, "Not an easy place for first timers to get into. No swim access to the lake. Small campground loop."
Consider alternative accommodations: Some campgrounds offer cabins near tent sites. At Wilderness Cove Campground, a visitor reported, "My kid(12) and I had a great experience here: 2 nights in tents and 2 in a River Cottage. The tent camping is not quite 'roughing it': there's pretty reliable WiFi and the bath house is air conditioned and kept very clean."
Road access challenges: Some sites have difficult approach roads. A visitor to Wilderness Cove mentioned, "The drive down the mountain is a little nerve-wracking for a city boy, and my car's low clearance had me scraping my underside on some rocky bumps inside the property."
