Campgrounds near Taylors, South Carolina offer diverse terrain from mountainous settings to lakeside retreats within a 30-minute drive. Most sites in this region sit at elevations between 800-1200 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night even during summer months. The proximity to both the Blue Ridge Mountains and urban centers provides a mix of secluded natural camping and convenient access to services.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Jones Gap State Park Campground offers primitive tent sites with hiking trails leading directly from campsites. "Jones Gap gives you the feeling of really being deep in the Appalachians. The rushing river and dense foliage with tons of mountain laurel makes the air seem so fresh," notes John R., who recommends "hiking upstream and playing in the river."
Mountain biking excursions: Davidson River Campground provides direct access to mountain biking trails. Travis S. states, "Located right inside Pisgah National forest this campground is perfectly set for all adventures. If you're looking to ride the mtb trails you're in luck. They start literally across the davidson river from the campground."
Water recreation opportunities: Both fishing and swimming are available at multiple locations. According to Tye G. at Paris Mountain State Park, "Great hiking trails and easy access campsites. Mountain lake was a little small for kayaking, but we had fun." Most waterfront sites require advance reservations, especially during summer months.
What campers like
Forest immersion: Campers appreciate Jones Gap State Park for its natural seclusion. Emily S. shares, "Each spot is about a quart mile from the next, so you feel like you have the mountain to yourself. Awesome place!" Sites require a short hike in but provide more privacy than standard campgrounds.
Family-friendly amenities: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas. At Orchard Lake Campground, "They have swimming, a little zip line. My then 7 year old played on it all day they even have a game room," according to Renee R. The campground also features a swimming lake with slides and boat rentals.
Clean facilities: Travelers Rest-North Greenville KOA receives consistent praise for maintenance. Tim P. notes the campground offers "Level gravel sites with concrete patios. Some with yard swings. Very clean. Clean bathhouses. Cute camp store. Free library. Pool and other rec. Propane refills and wood$ delivery to site."
What you should know
Site levelness challenges: Multiple campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. Cindy R. explains about Paris Mountain State Park Campground: "Nice large sites but very unlevel due to mountain side. Would not stay again because we were so unlevel our refrigerator wouldn't work."
Road access limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted access roads. Bounding Around notes at Paris Mountain, "The road through the park back to the campground is pretty narrow at some points - we don't know how we would have managed if we had met another RV!"
Weather preparedness: Summer temperatures in the region regularly exceed 85°F during peak daytime hours, cooling significantly overnight. For fall visits, CJ C. recommends Table Rock State Park: "I stayed here over New Year's and did a ranger-led First Day Hike."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: For families wanting pet-friendly alternatives to tent camping, Pine Ridge Campground offers climate-controlled options. Jyll G. reports, "After car camping for a few days, my son and I came here to a surprisingly comfortable cozy and AIR CONDITIONED (!) cabin for 3 nights."
Activity planning: Schedule morning activities during summer months when temperatures are cooler. Myron C. notes at Travelers Rest KOA, "What is really unique about this KOA is that there is a nature trail through the woods. That is something I don't recall seeing at any other KOA."
Safety considerations: Campgrounds with water features require extra supervision. At Orchard Lake, Michelle S. shares, "This campground is wonderful! We found it out of an emergency stop and stayed for 5 nights. It is beautiful and has so much for the kids to do."
Tips from RVers
Road navigation: Access to several pet-friendly camping areas near Taylors requires careful driving. According to Matt R. at Paris Mountain, "This is a beautiful park, with lots to do, and in close proximity to the endless supply of activities that can be found in the Greenville area."
Site selection strategy: Croft State Park Campground offers two separate camping areas with different advantages. Creighton C. explains, "We camped here for a few days and loved this park. Plenty of hiking and fishing. We did not have to leave the park for anything. They have two different campgrounds and this park is geared towards horse back riding."
Connection availability: For RVers needing to work remotely, C O. notes about Travelers Rest KOA, "Cell coverage was great (att & Verizon), so we had no issues working our 9-5s. Love the bubbling creek next to our site, which was so pretty from our back window."
