Equestrian camping options extend throughout Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests in the Union, South Carolina region. Several campgrounds in this area accommodate horses with specialized facilities at varying levels of development. The surrounding forests feature rolling terrain at elevations ranging from 500 to 700 feet, creating diverse riding conditions through hardwood forests and pine stands.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Brick House Campground offers access to several trails, with one camper noting, "There are several loop trails you can take that are really close, and the palmetto trail runs right through there, so longer options are available."
Fishing nearby: Chester State Park Campground provides lakeside recreation. As one visitor observed, "The lake is breathtaking. There are tournaments through out the year, as well as boating, kayaking, & fishing."
Hiking on mixed-use trails: Crowders Mountain State Park Campground features trails for all skill levels. A camper shares, "The trails are strenuous but views are amazing! Its definitely worth it and right outside town, not far out."
Disc golf course: Chester State Park Campground also features "Championship Disc golf course" according to a recent visitor who added that the park has a "Very nice trail along the lake perimeter."
What campers like
Affordability: Primitive camping at Brick House Campground costs $5 per night. One visitor appreciated that "It's $5 a night. It's also only a short drive from where we live in Spartanburg."
Privacy and seclusion: Woods Ferry Campground provides isolation for those seeking quiet. A camper mentioned, "Nobody else was there when I was there this past summer and so I was able to let my dogs roam freely."
Well-maintained facilities: Lake Greenwood State Park Campground receives high marks for upkeep. One camper stated, "The park is clean and nearly every camp spot is shaded. All roads and camp spots are paved and have fire pits."
Ranger presence: Many campers appreciate the safety of regular ranger patrols at Brick House Campground, with one noting, "Rangers check the campsite every day and night. Great place to camp."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Woods Ferry Campground offers minimal amenities. A camper reported, "The shower/bath houses that belonged to the camping area have been decommissioned and the only bathrooms, which are new, are therefore quite a distance because they're now in the day-use only area."
Seasonal conditions: Most equestrian campgrounds near Union become busy during hunting season. At Brick House Campground, visitors should be prepared for crowds as "Arrived after hunting season, informed was busy then."
Pack sufficient water: Water sources are scarce at primitive campgrounds. One visitor to Brick House Campground advised, "The closest water is 5 or 6 miles in either direction, so pack plenty."
Variable site conditions: Kings Mountain State Park campground has topography challenges according to one camper who noted, "Many camping sites are very much in need of leveling. Sites slope from left to right, front to back, and some slope in both ways."
Tips for camping with families
Check site suitability: For family camping with equestrian needs, look beyond the standard sites. At Woods Ferry Campground, "There is a separate section for group camping. However, I think it caters to groups of horse campers, as there are corrals at the campsites."
Consider nearby alternatives: Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort offers family-friendly amenities without the rustic challenges of equestrian camps. A camper recommends it as "Private but great for families and bike ridding. Private pool game room. Laundry and camp store."
Plan for insects: Horse campgrounds near Union, South Carolina typically have more biting insects due to animal presence. At Woods Ferry, a visitor warned, "I did get chiggers from the whole experience."
Prepare for limited connectivity: Most equestrian campgrounds in the national forest have minimal or no cell service. Bring physical maps and entertainment options that don't require internet access.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven surfaces. A camper at Kings Mountain mentioned, "The sites are close together, poorly maintained, and most are very small."
Access considerations: For RVers considering horse camping facilities near Union, South Carolina, road conditions can be challenging. At Brick House Campground, a visitor warned, "Beware of the giant pothole when turning off the 66 onto the Brickhouse Road. We hit it and it jarred the trailer so much it broke our back window."
Camping during off-peak periods: For better site selection at equestrian campgrounds, avoid hunting seasons when larger rigs are common. One RVer at Brick House Campground found, "Easy access from I26. Spent a week here and really enjoying it. Has 21 spots. All have legal gravel pads, fire rings with grill bars."
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