Best Camping near West Columbia, SC

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, West Columbia, SC has a lot to offer. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are West Columbia campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your South Carolina camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near West Columbia, SC (62)

    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground

    1. Dreher Island State Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    232 Photos
    297 Saves
    Chapin, South Carolina
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sesquicentennial State Park Campground

    2. Sesquicentennial State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    75 Photos
    122 Saves
    State Park, South Carolina

    Camping Information: Each site is packed sand and has individual water and 30 amp electrical hookups. 17 sites accommodate RV's up to 35 feet, others up to 30 feet. 14 sites are pull through. The campground is convenient to restroom facilities with hot showers. Nine sites are newly-improved. Amenities include: a large, level parking area, a campfire ring with grill and a lantern hook. Four sites are equipped with tent pads. These pads provide a sand surface and can accommodate tents up to 10 x 10 ft. Loop 1 is closed seasonally. Loop 2 is open year round. Primitive Group Area: A primitive group camping area is ideal for organized groups up to 50 people. (An organized group is defined as a group that holds regular meetings and has a lead officer or elected/appointed officials.) Central water is available. Walking distant to restrooms. Showers not available. Reservations are accepted. To make a primitive group camping reservation, contact the park directly. Minimum rate is $11-13.50 which allows up to 10 campers. The rate increases by $5-6.25 increments for each additional five campers up to a total of fifty campers.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park

    3. Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park

    28 Reviews
    100 Photos
    4 Saves
    Gadsden, South Carolina

    Overview

    This campground is located just off the park entrance road, approximately __ mile before the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, in a mixed pine/hardwood upland forest. This campground is located at a higher elevation than the floodplain and is not subject to the flooding events that occur regularly in other parts of the park.__

    Recreation

    Campers with reservations at the Longleaf Campground have easy access to the park___s 27 miles of hiking trails. Campers can reach the Harry Hampton Visitor Center by car or by hiking on the Longleaf Trail. At the visitor center you can access the Boardwalk and find information on other trails to plan your trip into the old-growth forest of Congaree National Park. Those who would like to explore and experience Congaree via canoe or kayak can launch from one of the park's two landings, located between 5-10 minutes by car from the campground.__

    Facilities

    Campers with reservations at the Longleaf Campground have easy access to the park___s 27 miles of hiking trails. Campers can reach the Harry Hampton Visitor Center by car or by hiking on the Longleaf Trail. At the visitor center you can access the Boardwalk and find information on other trails to plan your trip into the old-growth forest of Congaree National Park. Those who would like to explore and experience Congaree via canoe or kayak can launch from one of the park's two landings, located between 5-10 minutes by car from the campground.__

    Natural Features

    Located in a mixed pine/hardwood upland forest, campsites are surrounded by pines and other trees. Campsites are generally in shade for large parts of the day. An open field in the middle of the campground is available for use by campers throughout the day, and this location offers campers excellent opportunities for observing wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and the occasional southern fox squirrel.__

    Nearby Attractions

    Congaree National Park is located near many attractions including state parks, forests and parks. The city of Columbia is a short drive from the park and offers access to many attractions including museums, city parks and shopping.

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground

    4. Poinsett State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    118 Photos
    88 Saves
    Wedgefield, South Carolina

    In the High Hills of Santee, where the South Carolina Sandhills of the Midlands region meet the coastal plain region, you’ll find Poinsett State Park. Called the "mountains of the midlands," this mixed ecosystem yields a high degree of biodiversity and some of the most unique natural sightings in the park system, especially along the Palmetto trail which winds through the Manchester State Forest.

    The High Hills of Santee are dotted with the hiking and biking trails that wind through the park–some of which connect to the Palmetto Trail that leads hikers through the Manchester State Forest. Poinsett’s 10-acre lake makes for a serene setting, and can be used for fishing and johnboat rentals. The park also offers campsites, a fishing pond, a coquina bathhouse built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, pre-revolutionary grist mill ruins and rustic cabins.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rig Friendly RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rig Friendly RV Resort

    5. Big Rig Friendly RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    2 Photos
    8 Saves
    Cayce, South Carolina

    Columbia’s finest and most convenient RV Resort. Located only 3 miles from I-26, I-77 minutes from I-20, Downtown Columbia, the University of South Carolina and Lake Murray. Full hookups, full amenities, and large pull-thru sites. Open all year. Shaded sites with large yards.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Weston Lake Recreation Area

    8. Weston Lake Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    26 Photos
    22 Saves
    Columbia, South Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $33 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Broad River Campgound
    Camper-submitted photo from Broad River Campgound
    Camper-submitted photo from Broad River Campgound
    Camper-submitted photo from Broad River Campgound
    Camper-submitted photo from Broad River Campgound
    Camper-submitted photo from Broad River Campgound

    9. Broad River Campgound

    4 Reviews
    21 Photos
    26 Saves
    Chapin, South Carolina

    Broad River Campground and RV Park is conveniently located 20 minutes from downtown Columbia and 15 miles from Interstate 20 & 26. We are Exit #85 off Interstate 26, located next to Lake Monticello and only minutes from Lake Murray. We offer full hookups, 30 & 50 amp, for every size RV. Not to mention open spaces for that magnificent view.

    Broad River Campground and RV Park is located just 6 miles south of Plant V.C. Summer on HWY 215. Our location gives it all to you with a very short drive to and from work. We are conveniently located 6 miles from V.C. Summer and only 20 minutes from Columbia, Irmo and Chapin. If you want the best, come see us at Broad River Campground and RV Park! We are South Carolina’s favorite RV park and campground with a southern charm.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from River Bottom Farms Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from River Bottom Farms Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from River Bottom Farms Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from River Bottom Farms Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from River Bottom Farms Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from River Bottom Farms Family Campground
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Showing results 1-10 of 62 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near West Columbia

Recent Reviews in West Columbia

345 Reviews of 62 West Columbia Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Newberry / I-26 / Sumter NF KOA
    Dec. 15, 2024

    Newberry / I-26 / Sumter NF KOA

    Good travel through spot.

    I stayed at the campground for roughly a month or longer. The campground itself is well kept and clean. There is not much to do at the campground. Supplies can be picked up roughly 15 to 30 minutes away from the campground.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Newberry / I-26 / Sumter NF KOA
    Dec. 2, 2024

    Newberry / I-26 / Sumter NF KOA

    Very cute place in Kinard, SC

    Office was very friendly. They take you to your site which we always so appreciate. Hookups are modern, nice dog park, propane tank for easy fill ups. Fresh donuts anytime, pizza and chicken wings (bone in and bone out) til 6. Very clean and well maintained. Site was perfect for our 43’ Motorhome and dolly. Would definitely stay again.

  • Kim L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park

    Small campground, walk in only

    Ten site campground, all walk in. Sites 1 and 2 fairly short distance to walk. Campsites are spacious and clean. Pit toilets and solar powered device charger available in parking lot. Easy distance to access visitor center and main trails.

  • Chris C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Nov. 12, 2024

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Great 4 days

    Great camping fire temps. Weather was rainy towards the end but enjoyed the stay. Our site #3 was a pull through. A little to close to main road (about 6’) but that was the only issue otherwise not much to complain about. Water was cold and crystal clear.

  • Katrin M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Nov. 3, 2024

    Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park

    Big campground on the lake

    We camped here over the weekend with the pups. The state park has 2 different campgrounds. We decided for the Lakeshore one. It's pretty big with over 100 campsites. They have the usual amenities like fire pit, and picnic table with bench. Our was private, but the sites in the middle are not. The bathhouse was very clean with nice hot showers. The park has several trails, a visitor center, cabins on the water, at least 2 boat ramps with a bait shop. There are no trash cans near the campsites, there is one big dumpster at the entrance of the campground. It's about 1.30h to Folly Beach. We would definitely camp here again.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rig Friendly RV Resort
    Oct. 26, 2024

    Big Rig Friendly RV Resort

    Beautiful and spacious

    Great location! This RV Resort has great amenities and staff along with their location! Awesome gym and club house plus beautiful pool! Staff are very friendly and welcoming! Check them out!

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rig Friendly RV Resort
    Oct. 26, 2024

    Big Rig Friendly RV Resort

    Great campground!

    We found this campground while traveling through Columbia SC and made a late evening reservation. We were able to reserve online and even pick our camping spot. It has full hookups and we were able to find the spot easily even in the dark. The owner called to make sure we had no questions and to explain where to pick up our packet. She was very nice and made us feel welcomed. It appears that they are a new campground and will have even more amenities soon. It was also very quiet. We will definitely be staying here on our subsequent trips through SC. I highly recommend this campground!

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Oak RV Park
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Sandy Oak RV Park

    5 ⭐️ Hospitality— Great RV Park

    We called with very short notice looking for an overnight site. Though the campground was booked, the owners so graciously allowed us to park in the overflow parking which included water & electric. We even arrived at 10pm, and they were waiting at the gate for us! We were so pleased with the owner’s generosity and hospitality. We will definitely be back to take advantage of the swimming pond, paddle boats, fishing & playground!

  • Cindy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Beautiful and Peaceful

    This place offers lakefront views and surrounded by tall trees. The bathrooms are air conditioned and the water is hot. The only problem I had was the cleaning schedule of the women’s bathroom seemed to take place around 7:30ish in the morning.

  • Christina G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Aug. 25, 2024

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Beautiful Site

    Stayed for 2 nights at Tent Site 4 in early May and had wonderful weather! There was a big storm for about an hour after we set up camp, but the site drained well and it wasn't too buggy despite being right on the water. Loved the walkability, super easy walk on a slight decline from our parking space next to the stairs/path to the site. Two good spots for setting up a hammock. Loved watching the birds and occasional fish. Water and electric available and functioning on site. Quick walk to bathroom/shower.

    Overall a great experience!

  • Joy K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Outside Inn Campground
    May. 25, 2024

    Outside Inn Campground

    Perfect overnight stay

    This was the perfect place to stop for an overnight stay to break up the drive to FL. Our full hook-up site was almost perfectly level with a fire ring and picnic table. We stayed in a back-in site, which we were grateful for since they are all in the shade. Our grandson loved feeding the goats and donkey so make sure you bring some fruit and/or veggies. Claire was very communicative prior to our arrival and even stopped by our site after we settled in to see if we needed anything. They are expanding by adding a bathhouse and possibly more sites in the future. They have weekly movie nights and a couple of corn hole boards. I believe there's a walking trail as well but we didn't have a chance to check it out since we were in and out so quickly. If we had to list a con, I guess the only thing would be the bugs....but that's typical of the south in the summer so we were already prepared. We will definitely be stopping by again for a longer stay.

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Outside Inn Campground
    May. 18, 2024

    Outside Inn Campground

    Serene

    Country setting in a great little RV park that is just getting started. Full hook-ups. Easy access and parking. Owners were very hospitable and available. Sweet animals and love the farm feel. Definitely plan to stay again.

  • Tracie S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Wateree State Park Campground
    May. 12, 2024

    Lake Wateree State Park Campground

    Our Favorite Getaway

    This is one of our favorite spots! We can boat, fish, ride our golf cart, hang out by the fire and just enjoy the moment. It also has wonderful handicap accommodations. Hands down one of our favorites!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Poinsett State Park Campground
    May. 11, 2024

    Poinsett State Park Campground

    Great camp site!

    We stayed here for our son’s first birthday, in campsite 30! It was beautiful and we felt like we had plenty of privacy. Our site had a trail attached to the back of it which was really nice for hiking and it was perfect distance from the bathroom! On the topic of the bathroom, the toilets were CLEAN! And I mean we were there for 24 hours and the bathroom was cleaned at least twice. Really nice, they might look a little scary on the outside though but don’t mind that any bit.

    For people that love hammocks, site 29 (right next to ours) has a bunch of perfect hammock trees. If we go again we will try to stay in that spot! Great place to stay.

  • Chad L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wateree Lake RV Park & Marina
    May. 4, 2024

    Wateree Lake RV Park & Marina

    Just Right

    This location has 2 RV lots. Riverside is heavily wooded which provides a ton of shade on the hot summer days. Taylor Creek is newer with less trees providing lots of open space and great for Solar regeneration. Both sites are very clean and well maintained. Just a short walk to the lake.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Oak RV Park
    May. 3, 2024

    Sandy Oak RV Park

    Quick stop for the night

    Needed a quick stop and contacted them last minute. They had a pull thru spot and were great at accommodating us. Shower, bathroom and laundry. Wow!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Outside Inn Campground
    Apr. 30, 2024

    Outside Inn Campground

    Fun and relaxing!

    Had a one night stay. New hookups, easy access and being right next to the farm animals was very fun! The rooster was pretty expressive overnight too!

  • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alston Trailhead
    Apr. 24, 2024

    Alston Trailhead

    Nice free spot

    We enjoyed this free trailhead parking. No bathroom, and the train only woke us up once in the night. Only one other van there with us, so very quiet and peaceful. Lovely walk on the Palmetto trail in the morning. There are also “walk-in” campsites right behind the trailhead signs in the trees.

  • kevin C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Karen's Escape
    Mar. 28, 2024

    Karen's Escape

    Super great spot!

    Very flat wide open lot within minutes to the Aiken horse park and downtown. My only recommendation is to have it better marked so guests know exactly where it is upon arrival. Maybe a tiny little sign?

  • Logan S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Newberry / I-26 / Sumter NF KOA
    Mar. 16, 2024

    Newberry / I-26 / Sumter NF KOA

    Very Friendly and Cozy Campground with Plenty to enjoy

    The owners and host are amazing at what they do! They’ve planned so much for this campground that our kids have had 5 days of things to do each day. We’ll definitely return and mark this as a favorite campground.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Mar. 13, 2024

    Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park

    Small and peaceful under the pines

    We stopped heading south and north along I-95 to and from Florida.  Very easy off and on I-95.  Plenty of available spaces in off-season.  The campground is small and quiet.  Camp Host was very helpful. Sites were spaced reasonably far apart but there is no privacy between.  Not all sites have a water view, but most appeared fairly level. Not all sites have sewer access.  Our only complaint was lots of smoke from campfires and grills. Would stay again.

  • Paul R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dreher Island State Park Campground
    Mar. 1, 2024

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Beautiful Lakeside

    Stayed at TENT site 13. It sits with two other tent sites on a small peninsula at the bottom of Dreher Island State Park. It’s a nice large site with a large tent pad. There quite a few good trees to hang a hammock, which I camped in. Absolutely gorgeous sunrise, sunset, and when I was there the moon was full.

  • Nicole C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rig Friendly RV Resort
    Jan. 30, 2024

    Big Rig Friendly RV Resort

    Really nice place

    This place was well thought out when it was being built, lots of space, great level sites, nice dog park. Fitness center and laundry are new and nice.

  • Lynn M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Outside Inn Campground
    Jan. 16, 2024

    Outside Inn Campground

    Awesome Place to Camp

    Our stay at Outside Inn Campground was truly awesome! The sites are very nice, easy access, and they also have"buddy sites" for when you are traveling with others. The owners (Chris& Clair), their daughters (Macy and Caroline), and the varous animals were great! We definitely recommend every RVer add this place to their list!

  • Kristen S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park
    Dec. 7, 2023

    Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park

    Peaceful, good trails

    We were at site 46, which is near the entrance and the camp host. Short walk to the bathhouse directly behind. Site has good trees for a hammock and near a path down to the lake for fishing/picnic/swimming. Beware there is a sharp drop off across from the site, so make sure whoever is backing in has a spotter out front.



Guide to West Columbia

Camping near West Columbia, South Carolina, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: Lake Murray is a prime spot for fishing and boating. Many campers enjoy the serene waters and the chance to catch fish. One visitor at Dreher Island State Park Campground mentioned, "We spent 90% of our time on the lake swimming, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and enjoying one of the best lakes we’ve ever experienced."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Poinsett State Park Campground. A reviewer shared, "The park is better suited for small rigs, although we did see a couple large motor homes that struggled to navigate the narrow road, trees, and tight turns."
  • Wildlife Watching: Many campgrounds, like Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park, offer opportunities to see local wildlife. One camper noted, "Beautiful quiet place to camp, hike, or canoe/kayak."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Limited Privacy: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Andrew Jackson State Park Campground noted, "Sites seem too closed to each other."
  • No Cell Service: Many areas lack cell service, which can be a concern for some. A visitor at Poinsett State Park Campground mentioned, "There’s no wifi or cell service in the camping section."
  • Weather Considerations: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A reviewer at Dreher Island State Park Campground warned, "If you are camping here with a tent, you’ll want to stake your abode down with as many lines as you quite possibly can."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A parent at Lake Wateree State Park Campground said, "Great park with waterfront sites. Plenty of fishing areas."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A visitor at Sesquicentennial State Park Campground noted, "Many trails to hike on and many beautiful sites close to town."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Santee Lakes KOA mentioned, "Campground was clean. Very nice lake and swimming area."

Tips from RVers:

Camping near West Columbia, South Carolina, has something for everyone. From fishing and hiking to family-friendly activities, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions