Best Tent Camping near Central, SC

Tent camping near Central, South Carolina provides access to several wilderness areas within Sumter National Forest and nearby state parks. Burrells Ford in Sumter National Forest offers walk-in tent sites along the Chattooga River, with established camping areas approximately one-third to three-quarters of a mile from the parking area. Jones Gap State Park Campground features tent-only walk-in sites that provide exceptional privacy, with each site spaced about a quarter mile apart. Pine Point Primitive Campground in Table Rock State Park offers hike-in tent camping with flat tent pads near a lake, while Denver Downs Farm provides a more open field setting for tent campers seeking easier access.

Most primitive tent campgrounds in the region require campers to pack in all necessary supplies. Burrells Ford provides vault toilets at the parking area but no drinking water, making a water filter or carrying water essential. Many backcountry tent sites include fire rings, lantern poles, and some have food hanging systems for bear safety. Pine Point Primitive Campground has drinking water available but requires a half-mile walk to access it. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with winter temperatures occasionally dropping below 20°F, particularly along river corridors where cold air settles. Summer brings hot, humid conditions that can make tent camping challenging without proper ventilation.

The backcountry tent camping experience near Central offers notable solitude and natural settings. According to reviews, Jones Gap State Park provides "private walk-in sites with a creek running through the park" and is considered by some visitors to be "the most beautiful of all" camping areas in the state. Campers at Burrells Ford noted the campground offers "several different camping options" including spots near the river that are "fairly level and clear for tents." The Chattooga River and its tributaries provide fishing opportunities directly from many tent sites. Primitive tent camping in this region rewards those willing to hike in with gear, offering secluded natural settings away from developed areas and vehicle noise.

Best Tent Sites Near Central, South Carolina (60)

    1. Denver Downs Farm

    1 Review
    Pendleton, SC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 305-1268

    $30 / night

    "Just a giant field to set up and camp. There is no water or any hookups. You will need to pack in and pack out everything.

    Very close to I-85 and easy to get to. Feels very safe."

    2. Burrells Ford

    18 Reviews
    Highlands, SC
    26 miles
    Website

    "Campground Review:

    In March 2017, our family of 6 went on our 1st overnight backpacking trip. A friend had recommended the Chattooga River Trail in South Carolina."

    "Trail/Campground Review:

    The East Fork trail at the end of Burrells Ford is quite an easy trail! "

    3. Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area

    5 Reviews
    Sunset, GA
    18 miles
    Website

    "This small primitive campsite is located near the NC side of Jocassee."

    "My only complaint was that the grounds could have been cleaner but I’m sure part of the blame is on the poor weathers we have been having for the past few weeks."

    4. Jones Gap State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, SC
    30 miles
    Website

    "Love the privacy of this spot (#8) which is the closest walk in spot from the Parking area."

    "Tent camping only. Nice, private walk-in sites. Creek runs through park. Definitely no call service. Only an emergency call box if anything goes on at night. It's a pack in pack out park."

    5. Grapevine

    6 Reviews
    Long Creek, SC
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 561-4000

    "It is right next to the Chauga River, which makes it really nice for swimming and fishing. I actually saw some people cooking up fish in their campsite that they caught that day."

    "Vault toilet was clean and maintained. Most campsites are River side"

    6. Pine Point Primitive Campground — Table Rock State Park

    2 Reviews
    Sunset, SC
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 878-9813

    $20 / night

    "Pine Point Primitive Campground is found in SC and considered part of Table Rock State Park. A handful of sites are offered, each with a tent-pad, picnic table and firepit. "

    7. Riley Moore Falls Campsite

    1 Review
    Long Creek, SC
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-9568

    "Trail to river is well maintained and about 1 mile. It is a steep climb out. Multiple options as it is dispersed, just note restrictions on distance from river and trail."

    8. Scotland Pond

    Be the first to review!
    Easley, SC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 918-7915

    $20 - $25 / night

    9. Sumter National Forest Big Bend Campground

    2 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-9568

    "Packing up in the morning and a fisherman showed up to walk down the hill. Otherwise, saw no one. Very nice large area to spread out, if you have a group."

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Showing results 1-10 of 60 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Central, SC

1260 Reviews of 60 Central Campgrounds



Guide to Central

Tent camping near Central, South Carolina offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy fishing and hiking at the scenic Sumter National Forest Big Bend Campground, where you can find solitude and explore the surrounding woods.
  • Experience the tranquility of the Grapevine, located near the Chatooga River, ideal for those who appreciate the sounds of nature and want to unwind by the water.
  • For a more adventurous outing, visit the Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area, which offers kayaking and hiking opportunities amidst stunning waterfalls and pristine landscapes.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $20

Campground amenities to enhance your stay

  • The King Creek Primitive Campsites provide a secluded experience with fire rings and picnic tables, perfect for a cozy evening under the stars.
  • For those who prefer a more maintained environment, the Whispering Pines offers drinking water and toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay while still enjoying the outdoors.
  • At the Sandy Beach Campsite, you can set up camp right next to the Chattooga River, providing easy access to swimming and fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Central, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Central, SC is Denver Downs Farm with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Central, SC?

TheDyrt.com has all 60 tent camping locations near Central, SC, with real photos and reviews from campers.