Best Campgrounds near Whitmire, SC

The Sumter National Forest provides several mixed-use campgrounds near Whitmire, South Carolina, with varying amenities and settings. Brick House Campground offers primitive camping with fire rings and toilets but no drinking water, while Woods Ferry Campground caters to equestrian campers with horse corrals at many sites. Located approximately 25 miles southeast, Dreher Island State Park Campground sits on Lake Murray and accommodates tents, RVs, and cabin camping with lakefront views. The area balances developed campgrounds with more remote forest sites suitable for different camping styles.

Reservations are recommended for most established campgrounds in the region, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when Lake Murray attracts numerous visitors. The Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests manage several campgrounds with varied amenities—some feature only vault toilets and limited services while others provide water hookups. Summer heat and humidity can be intense, making spring and fall more comfortable for tent camping. Access roads to primitive sites may become muddy after heavy rains, potentially requiring higher clearance vehicles. According to one visitor at Woods Ferry Campground, "It was difficult for me to find Woods Ferry, but after talking with a park official, I finally got there. It is off the beaten path, so it is quiet."

Waterfront camping areas receive consistently high ratings, particularly at Dreher Island State Park where nearly every campsite has either direct lake access or views. The lake serves as the primary attraction for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and boating. Campers report that sites can be close together in some developed campgrounds, though shaded locations help mitigate South Carolina's summer heat. Sites at Lake Greenwood State Park feature paved driveways with electrical and water hookups, appealing primarily to RV campers. One reviewer noted, "All roads and camp spots are paved and have fire pits. Some have water and power (30 and 50 amp), some have sewer." More primitive camping areas like Sedalia Campground offer quieter experiences but fewer amenities, with access to hiking trails and natural settings being the main draws.

Best Camping Sites Near Whitmire, South Carolina (75)

    1. Brick House Campground (Sc) — Francis Marion And Sumter National Forests

    16 Reviews
    Kinards, SC
    7 miles

    $5 - $150 / night

    "Mostly away from everyone and was right next to a 9 mile loop hiking trail. Had a great stay in our roof top tent and will be back"

    "Quick last minute camping trip we didn’t want to drive hours away from home. This was fairly close and one of the few places to all booked up for the weekend."

    2. Newberry / I-26 / Sumter NF KOA

    6 Reviews
    Kinards, SC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 697-1214

    "Supplies can be picked up roughly 15 to 30 minutes away from the campground."

    "Becci was able to move some things around so we could continue to camp here for a few days while our truck is being repaired.

    This park is owned by a few couples."

    3. Sedalia Campground

    4 Reviews
    Cross Anchor, SC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 561-4000

    "Has fire pit and access to running water . No picnic tables and has vaulted toilets . But very nice place to get away from stress of life . Definitely will be back"

    "If you're a road cyclist this is heaven, and some decent trail riding down to the lakes. Just be aware that there are no picnic tables. Still it's cheap and close to where we live in Spartanburg."

    4. Dreher Island State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Chapin, SC
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 364-4152

    "This campground is a popular spot in South Carolina. Campsites are pretty close together but it's usually peaceful - lakeside sites, good fishing, but be prepared for the mosquitos!"

    "In my never-ending quest to discover the most perfect campground haven, after a rather intense amount of research, I landed on Dreher Island smack dab in the very center of South Carolina, where my daughter"

    7. Chester State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Chester, SC
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 385-2680

    "Tucked away just outside the historic cut of Chester, SC this park has a lot to offer, hiking trails, exploring, fishing, kayaking its great. It's our favorite little get away."

    "The lake from the campground has a fairly new access via a ADA compliant walkway with lighting leading to swings, benches and Adirondack chairs surrounding a rock fire pit."

    8. Croft State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    White Stone, SC
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 585-1283

    "37 ft pull behind and we stayed at the upper campground (not the lakeside) close to the trail that takes you down to the creek for a swim."

    "Head back to the end of the camping loop away from the office and find a trail that leads down to a nice swimming creek. Great place for exploring all over the park."

    9. Lake Greenwood State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Ninety Six, SC
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 543-3535

    "It’s a primitive, tucked in the woods spot on the lake. The camp sites are wonderfully spaced out. We stayed in sites you had to park and walk to, but the walk was very short."

    "This review is neither negative or positive. Just how it is, so you know before you go. The park is clean and nearly every camp spot is shaded. All roads and camp spots are paved and have fire pits."

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Recent Reviews near Whitmire, SC

370 Reviews of 75 Whitmire Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Eden in Lancaster SC

    4.5 STARS Peaceful area.

    This is a nice place to stay for a peaceful and quiet getaway. It’s a good place to relax. The owner is very nice and accommodating to your needs. You’re about 10 minutes away from the town of Lancaster, South Carolina.

  • madison F.
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Iron City Campground, Inc.

    great stop & stay

    nice campground. bathrooms and pool are CLEAN!!!! private bathrooms with showers. also has laundry ($) but has change for quarters in shop!! super big plus . also got a buddy site for the price of a normal one!

    not super crowded but still a nice community to be around :) 10 min drive into town as well. all sites have full hookups which was also super handy. not a bad price for what you get. only stayed two nights but would definitely stay again

  • Clean Slate D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Sesquicentennial State Park Campground

    Beautiful campground

    Well spaced sites with good amenities. Set in the woods, making it easy to forget you're in Columbia! Quiet, lots of birds in the spring. Easy drive to Congaree, which we highly recommend.

  • Sarah B.
    Jul. 5, 2025

    Croft State Park Campground

    Outdoor adventure awaits

    37 ft pull behind and we stayed at the upper campground (not the lakeside) close to the trail that takes you down to the creek for a swim. Lots of hiking and biking to be done which is always a great time.

  • Kevan  R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 22, 2025

    Dreher Island State Park Campground

    Needs Maintenance!

    SC state parks must have shortage of $$ or employees. I know they upgraded to full hook up RV sites in the Fishermen camp recently, but maybe, a little thought could have gone into grading and leveling. SMH Also, it’s a Sunday and the grounds look like they haven’t been mowed in weeks. Camper across from us brought a lawn mower 🤷🏼‍♂️. See attached pics. Fire ring is 5’ from the camper. Positive - the lake view.

    2nd SC park this year - SC DNR, do better.

  • Jerry H.
    Jun. 17, 2025

    WyldStay Greenville

    Glamping on the farm - Highland Cows

    My wife and I stayed a couple weeks ago and had a blast.   We arrived and immediately met Pebbles (My wife's favorite of the Highland cows).  She was the sweetest cow and allowed us to pet, take pictures with her and of course feed her.   We also spent some time with the other cows and loved the experience as we interacted with them and all of the other animals, including the new sheep that recently arrived.   The camp site was way more then expected.   Large tents on a platform, with  everything you need to camp and enjoy the campgrounds and pastures.   Full bathroom onsite, great ponds to enjoy.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 16, 2025

    Iron City Campground, Inc.

    Great stopover place

    We were here one night. CG is nice, they have some seasonal sites and a lot of other sites. There are some new sites along the pond on the lower level. They also had buddy sites, perfect for a 2+ campers to gather as a group. Nice dog park, nice playground.

    We would stay here again.

  • Keith K.
    Apr. 24, 2025

    Chester State Park Campground

    Small clean campground

    Stayed 1 night, sites are close to each other. Small cabins available, walk-in campsites and restrooms are clean and updated. Very nice trail along the lake perimeter and Championship Disc golf course.


Guide to Whitmire

Camping near Whitmire, South Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Hamilton Branch State Park Campground, provide direct access to the lake. One visitor mentioned, "Every campsite is on the lake!" This makes it easy to enjoy fishing or kayaking right from your site.
  • Hiking: Trails are abundant in the area. A camper at Kings Mountain State Park noted, "Lovely shaded campground. Boat rentals at Lake York. National Military Battlefield nearby." This gives you a chance to explore both nature and history.
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Dreher Island State Park Campground enjoyed spotting birds and fish. One reviewer said, "Loved watching the birds and occasional fish."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathhouses. A visitor at Croft State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathhouse is clean and well maintained."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpfulness of the park rangers. A camper at Kings Mountain State Park said, "The park rangers are all nice, respectful, and keep the place clean."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the generous space at sites like those at Dreher Island State Park Campground, where one reviewer noted, "It’s a nice large site with a large tent pad."

What you should know:

  • Site Conditions: Some sites may not be level. A camper at Andrew Jackson State Park Campground pointed out, "The sites are not all level, so pay attention to the description on the park website."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A visitor at Kings Mountain State Park mentioned, "The trading post check-in is in the campground!" This can be confusing for first-time visitors.
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of local wildlife. A camper at Croft State Park Campground warned about yellow jackets, saying, "The yellow jackets were out of control."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. One camper at Iron City Campground, Inc. said, "As of April 2024, they have added a nice playground."
  • Safety: Many campgrounds have security measures in place. A visitor at Cane Creek Park noted, "The park ranger regularly patrols, making it feel safe."
  • Activities for Kids: Campgrounds like Sesquicentennial State Park Campground offer trails and splash pads, making it a fun spot for families. One camper said, "The staff was very welcoming and helpful, large plots."

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Check site descriptions for level ground. A camper at Hamilton Branch State Park Campground mentioned, "The shade provided by the trees was a welcome respite from the summer heat."
  • Electric Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Dreher Island State Park Campground appreciated the "water and electric available and functioning on site."
  • Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with convenient dump stations. A camper at Kings Mountain State Park noted, "The dump stations also need a lot more gravel."

Camping near Whitmire, South Carolina, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With beautiful sites and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Whitmire, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, Whitmire, SC offers a wide range of camping options, with 75 campgrounds and RV parks near Whitmire, SC and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Whitmire, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Whitmire, SC is Brick House Campground (Sc) — Francis Marion And Sumter National Forests with a 4.1-star rating from 16 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Whitmire, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Whitmire, SC.