Pet friendly camping near Sunset, South Carolina offers diverse terrain across the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 85°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 30°F. Local campgrounds maintain several miles of pet-accessible trails that wind through hardwood forests dominated by oak, hickory and maple trees.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 25 minutes northwest at Davidson River Campground visitors can access numerous cascades. "There are miles and miles of hiking/running and mountain biking trails in the surrounding area, as well as numerous waterfalls. The campground is less than a mile from The Hub bike shop/Pisgah Tavern, a great bike shop offering rentals also," notes Carly E.
Fishing opportunities: Year-round trout fishing in local rivers and lakes where pets can often accompany anglers. "Known for trout fishing and hiking trails for all levels. Mountain streams offer fun for kids and kid-wannabes," explains Meridith M. about Oconee State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Multiple access points on Lake Keowee for dogs to swim while owners kayak or paddleboard. "Bring tubes and floats to relax in the water with, It's a great time!!" suggests Kirsten J. at Mile Creek County Park where "sites have fire ring and picnic table, most sites are shaded. Boat ramp, picnic area, 2 playgrounds for the kids, clean facilities with showers."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Varying separation levels depending on campground selection. "Sites are wooded and spaced far enough apart that you barely see or hear neighbors. Has plenty of things to do for everyone. Has store on site," describes Chris Y. about Black Forest Family Camping Resort.
River proximity: Direct water access from multiple campsites in the region. At Lazy J Campground, Ricky J. notes, "We did a spontaneous trip to the mountains and we found this nice camp site along the North Fork French Broad River and we camped right along the river. It felt like we were camping deep in the woods."
Backcountry experience: Trailside camping options for more adventurous pet owners. "Unlike other state park campgrounds, each spot is about a quarter mile from the next, so you feel like you have the mountain to yourself," explains Emily S. at Jones Gap State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Weather impacts accessibility to certain areas year-round. A reviewer at Davidson River Campground warns, "This area has become over run with tourists and the 'free' campsites have mostly been comandeered by squatters who rotate from site to site every 14 days... This place is packed most all of the summer now so you don't want to show up without a spot."
Wildlife awareness: Bears present in region requiring proper food storage. Multiple campgrounds display warning signs about bear activity and recommend keeping pets leashed at all times, especially during dawn and dusk.
Road noise: Some campgrounds affected by nearby traffic. Casey W. notes about Keowee-Toxaway State Park: "The only reason I dinged it from five stars is because of the road noise. Other than that this place is beautiful! Great hike to a beautiful lake!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple options for children to burn energy. "We took our pop up with our friends. Had a great time. Very clean," says Turner V. about Mile Creek Park, which features two separate playground areas at opposite ends of the campground.
Swimming areas: Natural water features accessible to families with dogs. "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," explains Jodi B. about Black Forest Family Camping Resort.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife observation throughout local parks. At Devils Fork State Park Campground, families can spot diverse bird species and aquatic life. "The lake views with the mountains in the background are perfect," says Sarah G.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain throughout the region. "Sites are kinda close but we felt very comfy with our two sites. Might have been able to get 2 tents on one site but 2 cars might have been tight," explains Ellen E. about Table Rock State Park.
Water pressure considerations: Variable quality across campgrounds. "The water pressure was not satisfactory and we couldn't take showers in our camper," warns Howell G. about Black Forest Family Camping Resort, suggesting RVers may want to arrive with full water tanks.
Power reliability: Check in advance about electrical hookups. Daniel G. cautions about Keowee-Toxaway: "Twice in one week this campground experienced a complete and total power outage each of which lasted for hours. The facilities were clean and rangers were nice, however the electrical infrastructure needs some work."
