Best Tent Camping near Slater, SC

The Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area and Jones Gap State Park provide secluded tent camping opportunities near Slater, South Carolina. Jones Gap State Park Campground features 19 trailside tent sites situated along the Middle Saluda River, while Pine Point Primitive Campground offers a more remote experience within Table Rock State Park. Both areas are characterized by their natural beauty and access to extensive trail networks through the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Most primitive tent sites require a short hike from parking areas, with distances ranging from 0.25 to 1 mile on moderately difficult trails. Jones Gap's tent pads are spaced approximately a quarter mile apart, providing significant privacy between campsites. Each site typically includes a cleared tent pad, fire ring, and in some cases, a lantern pole. Facilities are minimal, with toilets and water sources often located back at visitor centers. Campers should plan to carry in all necessary supplies and pack out all trash, as most areas operate under Leave No Trace principles.

The tent sites at Jones Gap offer exceptional proximity to waterways, with many campsites positioned within earshot of the Middle Saluda River. This provides both scenic value and convenient water access, though filtering is necessary. Sites are generally surrounded by dense mountain laurel and hardwood forest, offering natural privacy screens during warmer months. The elevation provides cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, making these tent sites particularly appealing during summer. Fall camping offers spectacular foliage viewing opportunities, while spring brings abundant wildflowers and active wildlife. A recent review noted, "The sites are really spread out and most are near a stream. You feel like you have the mountain to yourself."

Best Tent Sites Near Slater, South Carolina (45)

    1. Jones Gap State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, NC
    8 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."

    2. Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area Trailside Camping — Caesars Head State Park

    2 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, NC
    9 miles
    Website

    $4 - $20 / night

    "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."

    "Wonderful trails with breath taking views and technical climbs plus discrete camping."

    3. Asbury Hills Summer Camps

    2 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, NC
    9 miles
    Website

    "This trail was lots of fun! My friend and I decided to go here on a whim and it didn’t disappoint."

    4. Pine Point Primitive Campground — Table Rock State Park

    2 Reviews
    Sunset, SC
    11 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. "

    5. The Bike Farm

    6 Reviews
    Penrose, NC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 577-3673

    $24 - $110 / night

    "No generators allowed. But clean campsites and plenty of toilets. There's even a primitive hot shower. The people are very friendly both the campers and the people who operate the camp."

    "If what you are looking for is a great place to get out in nature and get away from the crowds you’re in the right spot."

    6. Kennedy Korner

    2 Reviews
    Travelers Rest, SC
    9 miles
    +1 (864) 423-5369

    7. Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area

    5 Reviews
    Sunset, SC
    22 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."

    8. Wilderness Cove Campground | Outdoor Adventure Retreats

    3 Reviews
    Saluda, NC
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 341-2344

    $35 - $299 / night

    "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.  Their website is very accurate. "

    "The tent camping is not quite"roughing it": there's pretty reliable WiFi and the bath house is air conditioned and kept very clean."

    9. Sakanaga

    Be the first to review!
    Cleveland, SC
    4 miles
    Website

    $10 - $20 / night

    10. Cherryfield Creek Luxury Campsite

    1 Review
    Rosman, NC
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 553-5836

    $300 - $2500 / night

    "I want to welcome Josh, your host, to our platform. Right on the border of Pisgah National Forest. This property can accommodate large groups and offers fire-pits at each site."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 45 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Tent Camping Reviews near Slater, SC

1408 Reviews of 45 Slater Campgrounds


  • Courtney B.
    Aug. 1, 2020

    Devils Fork State Park Campground

    Loved it so much, we've planned another trip there!

    We had a wonderful time camping at Devil's Fork State Park. Our group took up rustic tent sites T1, T3, and T5. On the map, these sites seem not ideal, as they are not on the water. However, they are more isolated, more wooded (plenty of trees for hammocking), and seemingly larger than the other tent sites. They are a short walk from the tent-camper parking area, a short walk from the two water spigots in the parking area, and a short walk from the restrooms. The bonus is that, behind sites T1 and T3, is a jumping rock into a gorgeous cove of Lake Jocassee with beautiful blue-green water. It's a great place to enjoy kayaks, rafts, and other inflatables. 

    While site T13 books up quick because of its waterfront location on the point, the walk from the parking lot is no joke. 

    Notes about the rustic tent sites: They have been recently renovated. Each has a picnic table and a fire ring. Only 1 vehicle is allowed to park, per site, unless you pay for the extra vehicle and park in the overflow lot. There is no electricity, and two water spigots located in the parking area. The entire camping area (25 tent sites and 59 RV sites) share 2 restrooms (which were muddy and gross while we were there). No generators are allowed in the tent area. We did have a bear visit us multiple times in one night, putting teeth puncture marks in our cooler. And if the bear don't get ya, the raccoons will!

  • J
    Jul. 19, 2016

    Black Forest Family Camping Resort

    Cabins without the amenities

    These cabins may not be for everyone. They are pretty bare bones. The cabins have electricity, but the water pump is outside and the bathrooms and showers are communal (but clean). There is a full size bed and two bunk beds in each one. Outside, there is a a picnic table and a fire ring for each cabin. I think the mattresses are hard, so I usually bring a sleeping bag to pad it. So it can be seen as a step up from tent camping for people who don't like that kind of roughing it.

    There is a heated swimming pool and they do lots of things for kids like ice cream socials. They have a little shop in case you forget some necessities.

    This campground is close to Dupont Forest, with lots of mountain biking, hiking, and waterfalls. For $50 a night, it's a pretty good deal.

  • S
    Aug. 28, 2018

    Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina

    Great, quiet campground with clean restrooms and hot showers

    We took our 5 and 3 year old sons camping here this past weekend and had a great time.

    Site: Our site was on the Hard Times loop which offered huge, flat gravel pads (our site was an RV site but also perfect for tent camping since it's pea gravel and not paved). If you have a 6-person or larger tent, opt for a gravel RV site, as you'll get tons more room than the "tent-only" sites which have the tent pad surrounded with railroad ties.

    Facilities: Powhatan really takes care of their facilities. Restrooms were cleaned multiple times per day and the showers are clean and the water was actually hot - awesome after a day of hiking before jumping in the sleeping bag. Gate house sells ice and firewood too.

    Activities: Tons of trails within Bent Creek but are mainly geared towards mountain bikers. Had to be on constant alert with my kids and dog, as the bikers absolutely bomb down these trails. Similar to hiking in Dupont but with a heavier concentration of mountain bikers. This was the only downside of camping here but there are some great hiking-only trails off the BRP just 30 min away. I wish the trail system worked its way through the campgrounds, as we had to walk a ways down the main paved road to access any trailheads.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2021

    Appalachian Pond Campground

    Back to Nature Campground to Get Away from it All

    For tent campers, I would rate this campground with five stars. For RV campers, I would rate it with one star. There are no hookups for RV campers, but there is a place to park a small RV camper that is self-contained. I loved this campground. It is everything you need for tent camping. It is remote in the mountains of western North Carolina and has lots of shade. It has a small pond, it is quiet, and the owners are very nice. One of the owners apologized for the grass being so high, but I assured him it was all right(and it wasn’t really that high). 

    There are several tent sites back in the woods, but they are spacious and not on top of each other. Some of them have access to running water, and at least one has electricity.  There is also a small cottage by the pond, and a camper that can be rented.   At night, all you will hear are crickets, the wind through the trees, birds, and frogs—just the way I like it. This campground truly is off the beaten path. 

    As far as facilities, it has a shower. There is a portable toilet across the path. Although it sounds primitive, which it is, the quaintness of the shower house and the fact that it has both a shower and a portable toilet is good enough unless you are looking for luxury accommodations. This campground may be remote, but it is not far from many hiking trails and sites, including but not limited to Purchase Knob, Hemphill Bald, the old Ferguson Cabin, Cataloochee Valley, the Great Smoky Mountains, and much more. 

    An additional feature is the old barn owned by the same people, which can accommodate special events, such as weddings and other venues in a beautiful rural setting. Would I recommend this campground? Absolutely!!!!… especially for tent campers.

  • Napunani
    Jun. 23, 2022

    Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina

    Shade, Shade and more Shade!

    PROS 

    Discounted camp fee with senior pass 

    Reserved 169 days prior to arriving 

    Friendly and helpful gate attendant 

    Nearly 100% shade at each site 

    Excellent dark sky viewing 

    Private sites with large space along with vegetation between sites 

    Very quiet 

    Asphalt parking pad surrounded with bean size gravel 

    Concrete picnic table 

    Metal fire pit with cooking grate 

    2 hook lantern pole 

    Electric at water connection for heated water hose connection 

    Recycle bins in campground loop 

    Trash dumpsters immediately out of campground loop 

    Firewood for sale but gate attendant told us to buy at Ingles (grocery store) where it is $3 bundle cheaper and we did! 

    Next to North Carolina Arboretum 

    Close to Asheville Outlet Mall and Camping World 

    CONS 

    3 bear sitings a day prior to our arrival in campground, according to gate attendant 

    No overnight gate closure even tho RULES proved at check-in stated gates closed at 10pm, but no open hours in RULES

     Lakeview site 38 not level 

    Up hill sewer connection at Lakeview site 38 

    Fire ring not cleared of ash upon our arrival 

    Non-moveable concrete picnic table and beyond camper awning 

    2 toilets and 2 showers for entire Lakeview Loop (21 campsites). There were lines! 

    Low hanging tree branches over roadways and roadside tree branches over roadways so it was a maneuvering obstacle challenge to not scrape camper roof and sides Campground roads narrow with tight curves along with roadway asphalt dropped off to steep shoulders; could be challenging to novice rig drivers (as we witnessed that more than once) 

    Two-and- a-half-mile drive on a twisty hilly road through residential neighborhood to get to the campground 

    No WiFi 

    1 bar Verizon

  • Thomas R.
    Oct. 28, 2021

    Sarah's Creek Campground (Clayton, Ga) — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest

    Amazing place

    We arrived Late afternoon took the road about 3 1/2 miles to our site which has a small waterfall actually there are three waterfalls here next to our site the one that can be seen easily the other two a little bit harder to get to by foot but we’ll worth the walk. The was water extremely cold couldn’t stay in it for more than five minutes. Most roads up here are only dirt and helpful if you have 4 Wheel Dr. to get to certain secluded areas we saw blackbear no venomous snakes but did come across a few black racers. As for firewood you can scrounge around there for branches and such but better to buy the wood out on the main stretch in Clayton the town outside of warwoman wildlife management area. We paid $125 for a 8 foot bed of semi seasoned split wood also known as a cord that lasted us the 4 days of tent camping. There are a few places before you head into warwoman wildlife management area that sell wood for a nites fire. There were no bugs and the temperatures were in the low 50s at night and mid 70s during the day. The fall leaves where a little late to show there true colors but still beautiful. Most sites have bear proof food containers that you can utilize and very heavy well built picnic tables. We had a restroom near us that is like portable toilets with toilet paper provided. No internet service but did find certain areas on the roads up there that you could use your cell phone. The only running water is the creeks and no electricity. Everyone we meet had kids and that was during the weekend. No body was camping there during the weekdays.

  • Tommy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2022

    Coneross Park Campground

    Lakeside campground

    This campground is huge. A lot of the campsites are close together, but we snagged a site along the west side of the campground, where there’s a little more privacy and seclusion.

    Being right on the water was amazing, the water was so warm and being able to swim from your site is pretty cool. This site had some stairs leading from the parking spot to the site, then slopes down to the lake.

    Dogs need to always be on leash and there’s no alcohol allowed, which is a bit of a bummer.

    Spigots and bathhouse was convenient, except no soap by the sinks.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2020

    Table Rock State Park Campground

    State Park with Beautiful Views

    Table Rock State Park is a large park with at least three“campgrounds.” One is a primitive campground, and one is a traditional campground. I did not get to explore the third campground, but I believe it is a traditional campground as well. The site I stayed at, site 56, was level, except for the approach; however, the pad was rough gravel. I put down two tarps under my tent to help eliminate the roughness inside the tent. The site was shaded and wasn’t too close to my camping neighbors, but the biggest problem was dealing with the ants—big black ants, small black ants, and other tiny ants. There was no lantern pole, but there was a fire pit and a picnic table. The bath house was only a short walking distance away. There is no lack of things to do, and the trail system is extraordinary. The main attraction, I would guess, is Table Rock Mountain, but there are other things to do. There is a swimming beach and a diving platform. Beside the beach are picnic tables, including a picnic shelter with a standing grill. The visitors center/store was well stocked with souvenirs and supplies, and there is a laundry next to it. Sometime during the night when I had to go to the restroom, I discovered that there was not water. The next morning, I turned on the faucet at my campsite, and it sputtered out brown water at first and then it came out clear. I said that to say this. There was a problem and they dealt with it quickly. That impressed me. The heat and humidity was almost unbearable, but nothing can be done about that during the summer. If you camp in a tent during the summer, make sure to take and extension cord and a fan. Overall, this is a great place to camp during vacation, but the cost is a little more than I expected to pay for a tent site. Costwise, I’m not sure I would want to pay that much for camping for a whole week. It rivals the national campground franchises. However, if cost doesn’t concern you, it really is a good place to camp.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 31, 2020

    Burrells Ford

    Nice Place to Get Away from the Crowds

    To get to this campground, you have to drive two and a half miles down a forest road, and then you hike about a third of a mile to the campsites. You have to backpack in and take everything you need. Make sure to take lots of water or a good water filter. When I first arrived, I was a little disappointed that the pit toilet was not open(I think perhaps due to the pandemic). The hike to the campsites is an easy, slightly downhill roadbed. When I went, it was the perfect time for the black-eyed susans to bloom, so it was a pretty hike. 

    This is a primitive campground, so there is no electricity, drinking water, or sewer hookups. However, it is peaceful, and if you want to get away from the conglomeration of RVs and tent campers, this is great. 

    When I got to my campsite, I was surprised to find a nice large picnic table and lantern pole. Most hike-in sites don’t have these amenities. There was also a hanging system for food since this place is in bear country. The thing I did not like was the gravel pad. It is a good thing I had a freestanding tent that didn’t require tent stakes. The site was really a good one with trees all around and the sounds of the creek, which is a tributary of the Chatooga River. 

    I was the only camper, which from what I understand is unusual. This is partly because school had started and it was during the week. This made it easy to gather firewood, but the wood was wet because of the recent rains. Fortunately, I had a little alcohol stove to cook my meals. 

    The reasons people come to this campground are because of access to water for fishing, the solitude, and King Creek waterfall. The trail to the waterfall is over a half mile (my estimation), and you have to cross a log footbridge. There was a huge downed tree that you also have to cross, but you have to be careful since the log was slimy. 

    Overall, this is a pretty good place to camp, but you can’t just run to your car if you forget something. Well, I guess you could, but it would be a third of a mile slightly uphill. All of your private hygiene has to be done backcountry also, which is not a problem if you are accustomed to backpacking.


Guide to Slater

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Slater, SC is Jones Gap State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 16 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 45 tent camping locations near Slater, SC, with real photos and reviews from campers.