Private woodland camping is abundant in the Upstate South Carolina region surrounding Slater-Marietta, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 feet. The area experiences moderate temperatures with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows near 30°F. Camping options include traditional tent sites, RV spaces with hookups, and yurt accommodations featuring canvas or wooden structures built on platforms.
What to do
Fly fishing excursions: North Mills River Campground provides direct access to excellent trout fishing spots. One camper noted, "This is a great campsite if you like fishing! We stayed here and were close to some amazing spots to fish!" The campground is located where local Trout Unlimited groups have invested in upgrading walkways and fence lines to protect the river ecosystem.
Waterfall exploration: Several waterfalls are within a 30-minute drive of Keowee-Toxaway State Park. "We only paid $12 for a one night stay at the campsite. The site overlooked the water and had a good amount of privacy/space from the other campers," a visitor mentioned about the primitive camping options that offer both hiking and paddling access.
Mountain biking: The extensive trail systems near Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground connect directly to camp. A cyclist observed, "I went mountain biking from the campground and had an awesome stay. The river was nice to have close to the site and it was a fun spot to stay." Many trails are accessible without needing to drive anywhere.
What campers like
Secluded yurt camping: Yurt camping near Slater-Marietta provides more privacy than standard campgrounds. One visitor to Yak Eco Camp reported, "We got to whole campground to ourselves. The pond is so amazing and the owner (Kim) mentioned an eco friendly sauna and water trampoline coming soon."
Winter solitude: Many campgrounds in the region remain open year-round with reduced rates during off-season. A North Mills River visitor wrote, "We were the only campers there. It was very quiet. The stream ran right by the campsite so listening to the stream as we went to bed was wonderful."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention bathroom quality as a standout feature. At Lake Powhatan, a guest reported, "The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There are numerous hikes that are on the grounds or just outside. The staff was very helpful and friendly."
What you should know
Bear precautions: Bear activity is common throughout the region. A Davidson River camper shared, "During our visit, our hosts spent the good part of one morning chasing a bear away due to someone leaving trash on their site." Most established campgrounds provide bear boxes for food storage.
Site selection: Many campgrounds have significant variations between sites. At Oconee State Park, a visitor advised, "Campsites are often uneven with alot of tree roots running throughout. It does require consideration before parking your trailer or RV."
Variable cell service: Reception can be spotty depending on location and carrier. A camper at Adventure Village noted, "We have an iPhone 11 and Samsung S20+ on Verizon. Phones would show 1 bar 4G LTE, but we could not get anything data related to come through well."
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Several campgrounds feature small lakes with swimming areas that are perfect for kids. At Table Rock State Park, a visitor shared, "Variety of campsites available to suit any camping style. Great for families, as there are drive up camp sites with fire pits and plenty of space, and spread out so it still feels like you have privacy."
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specialized recreation for children. The Travelers Rest KOA includes "a fire truck playground and the Johnson Creek Mining Company water tower and trough," according to one reviewer who wished their grandson had been with them.
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning experiences. Near Keowee-Toxaway, a visitor recommended, "I also highly recommend stopping by the local fish hatchery, not only educational but fascinating as well!"
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with electric hookups have sewer connections. Davidson River Campground provides a dump station, but one RVer cautioned, "The dump site is very tight, and lacking. That was the only thing on this campground I feel needed some work."
Road conditions: Some access roads require careful navigation. At Adventure Village, an RVer warned, "The exit is up a curved hill. We used 4 wheel drive with a 36 foot fifth wheel. It wasn't a problem."
Seasonal considerations: Off-season camping offers value but with limitations. At Lake Powhatan, a camper noted, "Not all loops are open this time of year, but there was no issue getting a site - even at 10PM. The bathrooms are clean and the showers are hot (no adjustment possible on temperature)."
