Woods Ferry and Brick House campgrounds provide equestrian camping opportunities near Winnsboro, South Carolina. These facilities in the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests allow riders to access connected trail systems without traveling far from their camping areas. The terrain varies from flat to gently rolling with sandy loam soil that can become challenging after heavy rainfall periods.
What to do
Trail riding access: Woods Ferry Campground offers direct access to equestrian trails from the camping area. "It is off the beaten path, so it is quiet. Apparently, there had been a lot of rain recently, and the area showed it," notes Myron C., who stayed at the campground.
Hiking opportunities: The 9-mile loop trail at Brick House Campground provides options for both hiking and horseback riding. Jacob L. reports, "Spent new years at site 16 and it was a little damp due to a heavy rain but a great site. Mostly away from everyone and was right next to a 9 mile loop hiking trail."
Kayaking and water activities: Sesquicentennial State Park Campground provides water recreation options just 30 miles from Winnsboro. "I camp at Sesqui very often. I live in downtown Columbia, so its only a short drive away. Love the bike and hiking trails. Very nice area to kayak in, I love all the Lilly pads," writes Tara M.
What campers like
Secluded camping areas: The horse campgrounds around Winnsboro typically have sites spaced well apart. "Only 23 sites, spaced a good distance apart. Each site has a fire pit and picnicking area. Trails nearby. Horses and other pets allowed," Karen F. notes about Brick House Campground.
Affordable camping: Budget-conscious equestrian campers appreciate the reasonable rates at national forest campgrounds. "5.00 to me is great for the peace and quiet," shares Michael W. about his experience at Brick House Campground, where the primitive facilities come with minimal fees.
Clean facilities: Despite being primitive, campers note the maintenance of facilities. "This is a great temporary stop. I was there for two days. It has a pit toilet. This is a federal campsite. Rangers check the campsite every day and night," Robert D. reports about his stay at Brick House Campground.
What you should know
Water availability: Bring your own water supplies when camping at the equestrian campgrounds. As richardhoerz explains about Brick House: "There is no running water. The closest water is 5 or 6 miles in either direction, so pack plenty."
Seasonal considerations: The camping experience varies significantly with the seasons. "This time of year (hunting season) was full of bigger rigs and generators. The few spots that weren't taken when we first got here eventually got scooped up by about 20 Boy Scouts," reports Samantha S. about her fall visit to Brick House Campground.
Insects after rain: Biting insects can be problematic, especially following rainfall. Adam S. notes about his experience at Woods Ferry: "I did get chiggers from the whole experience." This aligns with the prevalence of horseflies in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Educational wildlife viewing: Chester State Park Campground offers family-friendly camping with nature observation opportunities. "It's a small comfortable campground in a beautiful State Park. The lake is breathtaking. There are tournaments through out the year, as well as boating, kayaking, & fishing," writes Chris W.
Kid-friendly water play: For families wanting water recreation near Winnsboro, Ruth J. recommends Sesquicentennial State Park: "I love going to this campground, I enjoy doing the trails and spotting dear. And there is a small water play area for children. They have paddle boats also."
Group camping options: Woods Ferry includes a separate section for group camping that works well for family gatherings with horses, featuring multiple corrals in a single area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should choose their sites carefully at equestrian campgrounds. "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," notes Michael W. about Cane Creek Park which is approximately 45 miles from Winnsboro.
Level campsite importance: Many equestrian campgrounds near Winnsboro have uneven terrain. As Myron C. observes about Woods Ferry: "Selecting my campsite was my mistake. It was sloped, but there are a few others that were not sloped."
Pull-through availability: Some sites accommodate larger RVs with convenient access. "There are a couple pull-through spots. We were the only campers there," reports Allyse about Brick House Campground.
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