Lee State Park Campground accommodates equestrians with 23 campsites spread across a forested area near Olanta, South Carolina. Located at 487 Loop Road in Bishopville, the park offers year-round camping with gravel pads that can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet in length. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, while winter nights can drop below freezing between December and February. The campground connects directly to a network of wooded trails suitable for both day rides and extended exploration.
What to do
Explore artesian wells: The natural spring wells throughout Lee State Park Campground offer a unique geological feature for campers to discover. "Love the spring water," notes Tara M., highlighting these natural water sources that maintain a constant temperature year-round.
Enjoy the pond: Families can take advantage of the swimming pond at Cheraw State Park Campground located 67 miles northeast of Olanta. "A cute little beach area with kayak and canoe rentals. Day area open from 8am to sunset," explains John P., describing the recreational options available.
Watch retriever training: Observe professional dog handlers working with retrievers at H. Cooper Black. "They host many retriever tests on the weekend and they are fun to watch," reports Brenda L., highlighting an activity unique to this specialized recreation area.
What campers like
Quiet, shaded sites: The campgrounds provide peaceful settings with ample tree cover. "Sites are gravel and level. Bath house were clean and well maintained. Enjoyed my stay," shares Mitch M. about his experience at Lee State Park, emphasizing the tranquil atmosphere.
Wildlife viewing: Cheraw State Park Campground offers excellent bird watching opportunities. "Bird sanctuary so birders will LOVE this campground! There is also a really nice museum type of visitor's center," mentions Bran P., pointing out the natural attractions for wildlife enthusiasts.
Dog-friendly environment: Most equestrian campgrounds near Olanta welcome pets. "Also dog friendly which is a plus," notes Lauren V. about Lee State Park, making it convenient for campers traveling with both horses and dogs.
What you should know
Insect considerations: Horse presence creates specific camping conditions. "If you have never stayed with horses you can not be prepared for the flies. They were swarms of them," warns Swain K. about Lee State Park, highlighting a common challenge during warmer months.
Limited amenities: Some campgrounds offer basic services. "Not much around the campground though. If you want peace and quiet, and don't need shopping or touristy stuff- this is for you," explains John about Cheraw State Park, setting appropriate expectations for supplies and services.
Reservation requirements: Sites fill quickly during peak seasons, particularly at specialty campgrounds. "We were lucky enough to catch a great view of Jupiter merging with Saturn last night. Super cheap. We stayed four nights for under $100," shares Sara M. about off-season availability at Cheraw.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Park staff enhance the camping experience for children. "The ranger is very friendly, and made the kids' visit even better!" reports Trina W. about Lee State Park, highlighting the educational opportunities available.
Swimming options: Cheraw State Park offers family-friendly water activities. "There is a lake with a swimming area that was also well-maintained and clean, it has a boardwalk that goes around a large portion of the lake that connects the campground with the beach area," describes MaryAnn P.
Short hiking trails: Multiple walking paths accommodate various ability levels. "Awesome park with many trails and a pond for the kids to swim!" notes Chris S., pointing out recreational options suitable for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose camping spots based on your specific needs. "Some have water and electric hookups and some are more rustic. There are plenty of large spaces for RVs with lots of room around them for privacy," advises MaryAnn P. about Cheraw State Park Campground.
Winter camping advantages: Off-season visits offer unique benefits. "Spacious sites that feel nicely private surrounded by evergreens which is a nice relief in winter to see trees with leaves," explains Sara M., highlighting the year-round appeal of horse campgrounds near Olanta.
Hookup availability: Most equestrian campgrounds provide essential RV connections. "The campground has full hookups and they have made lots of improvements the last few years and most are level and shaded," reports Brenda L. about H. Cooper Black, describing recent upgrades.
