Tent camping near Slater, South Carolina offers primitive wilderness experiences at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 feet in the Blue Ridge foothills. The area features numerous clear-running streams and waterfalls with water temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than air temperature year-round. Weather patterns in this region can change quickly, with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months and occasional frost even in late spring.
What to do
Hike to Rainbow Falls: Trek 2.5 miles from Jones Gap campsites to see this impressive 90-foot waterfall. "Be sure to check out Rainbow Falls a 90ft free falling waterfall that's about 2 1/2 miles from the campsites," notes a visitor to Jones Gap State Park Campground.
Explore mountain streams: Many campsites sit near clean, clear mountain water perfect for fishing or cooling off. According to one camper at Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area Trailside Camping, "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!"
Try technical trail challenges: The Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area offers demanding climbs and unique trail features. "Wonderful trails with breath taking views and technical climbs plus discrete camping. It's a trip I recommend to all of my camping and hiking friends," shares an experienced hiker.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Jones Gap, the tent camping spots are distinctly separate. "I've now camped at spots 3, 4, and 9. This is my favorite place to camp in the state. The spots are clean and well maintained. As you're in a state park, you have the added benefit of a fire ring and tent pad, but no picnic table," one camper explains at Jones Gap State Park Campground.
Riverside camping locations: Many prefer sites positioned along waterways. A visitor noted, "I used site 7 because an oncoming storm made me bug out of my trailside plans. Gorgeous site, a bit chilly by the river but beautiful and close enough to still use the park bathrooms!"
Cooler temperatures: The elevation provides relief from summer heat. At Pine Point Primitive Campground, a camper shared, "This is one of three 'campgrounds' that I know of, that are within Table Rock State Park. This particular one is primitive, and you have to hike in to it... The best part about this campground is that it is away from the sounds of traffic, and your nearest neighbor, if you have one, will be a tent camper about 200 feet away."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most primitive tent sites have minimal amenities. "It is advisable to take your own water since the nearest water is almost a half mile away. There is a fire pit, a picnic table, a lantern pole, and a tent pad," notes a camper at Pine Point Primitive Campground.
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, securing a spot ahead of time is essential. At Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area, a regular visitor advises, "I would recommend reserving campsites plenty of time ahead as it gets filled up quickly, especially on holidays and during the summer."
Hiking distance to sites: Be prepared to carry gear. "This trail was lots of fun! My favorite thing about the boy/Girl Scout campsites was that it was along a river and was very large. It would be a great campsite for those who have a big group or just like the space," explains a camper at Asbury Hills Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites close to facilities: For younger children, select locations with shorter walks to toilets. At Jones Gap, a parent 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) and it was worth it for the seclusiveness. Having both toddler and dog we knew we couldn't go far but this still felt like we were in the middle of nowhere."
Pack for variable weather: Temperature swings of 20+ degrees between day and night are common. "The elevation provides cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, making these tent sites particularly appealing during summer," noted a seasonal camper.
Plan water access carefully: Streams may look inviting but can be challenging for small children. At Asbury Hills Camp, a visitor cautioned, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: True wilderness camping near Slater mainly accommodates tents. "Not big rig friendly. Lots of opportunities for kayaking, hiking. Not an easy place for first timers to get into. No swim access to the lake. Small campground loop," warns a visitor to Jocassee Gorges.
Consider nearby alternatives: For RV camping, look slightly farther from wilderness areas. At Wilderness Cove Campground, about 30 miles from Slater, a camper mentioned, "Camped at Wilderness Cove in August 2020 for 2 nights. Very clean, small, quiet campground. Tents only, they do have some cabins for rent. Nice clean bath house. Was able to access wifi near the tubing office. Prices are extremely reasonable."
Road conditions: Forest service roads may be challenging for larger vehicles. "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," notes a visitor, suggesting RV owners check road conditions before attempting access.