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Best Dispersed Camping in South Carolina

26 Reviews

South Carolina offers several dispersed camping options across its diverse landscapes, from coastal areas to mountain regions. Primitive sites such as Mountain Rest Mountain Top, Halfway Creek, and Guilliard Lake provide free camping opportunities with minimal amenities. These locations typically require campers to be self-sufficient and follow leave-no-trace principles. Dispersed camping in South Carolina's national forests allows visitors to experience natural settings away from developed campgrounds.

Vehicle access varies significantly between sites. Mountain Rest Mountain Top requires moderate clearance vehicles for the narrow, bumpy gravel roads. According to reviews, "4x4 is recommended but I made it down in a 2x4 fullsize pickup." Blackwell Bridge sites have rough access roads that become particularly challenging after rain. Pitts Landing features riverfront sites, though campers should park and explore on foot before attempting to drive to certain areas due to loose sand conditions.

Most dispersed sites in South Carolina require pack-in, pack-out practices for all supplies and waste. No drinking water, toilets, or trash facilities exist at these locations. Fires are generally permitted at sites like Halfway Creek and Falls Creek, with many locations having established fire rings. Several campers noted that Mountain Rest Mountain Top has "hundreds of downed trees, perfect for a firering" following recent hurricane damage. Wildlife sightings at Guilliard Lake include bald eagles, owls, and otters. Permits are required for some areas, particularly those in the Francis Marion National Forest, while others like Falls Creek do not require permits for overnight stays.

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Best Dispersed Sites in South Carolina (15)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos in South Carolina

22 Photos of 15 South Carolina Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in South Carolina

26 Reviews of 15 South Carolina Campgrounds

  • Sara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 22, 2025

    Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    Great but lower your expectations

    We arrived pretty late, close to midnight after hitting a lot of traffic traveling from Fl. The coordinates took us directly here, and upon first arriving we did see a campsite to the left which was being used. Continuing on for about another twenty minutes down a one-way gravel road we did not see anymore sites until the end of the road which has a beautiful sunrise view. There are hundreds of downed trees, I am assuming from Hurricane Helene. Which were chopped up, perfect for a firering.

    We went almost to the end of the road before turning around and just pulling over onto a little 'shoulder' to set up the tent for the night.

    Pros- Dead silent and relaxing Great view of the stars during early spring/late winter

    Cons- Not car accessible (road is narrow and very bumpy. 4x4 recommended but I made it down in a 2x4 fullsize pickup) Have not seen nor heard any creek despite one being in the photos.

    Definitely would come back

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2024

    Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    Hilltop camping with hiking trails

    Great spot with room to turn around. Shaded and at trailhead of a trail down to creek and near a second trail to a waterfall. Had a few people during the day but evenings were totally quiet. A bit of extra vehicle clearance is helpful...slow and steady gets you to a great spot. No services here but good dispersed spot.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 25, 2018

    Caper's Island

    Perfect family camping

    Caper's Island is a boat-in beach/camping area located on the Intracoastal Waterway just outside Charleston, SC. It is no frills, pack it in, pack it out camping with no amenities beyond what you bring with you. My family camped with another family with a total of 8 people and 2 dogs. After we set up our campsite, we went on a long walk down the boneyard beach for firewood and sea shell hunting( tons of conch shells and sand dollars). We all had an awesome time and plan to camp on Caper's Island again soon!

  • Adam V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 30, 2020

    Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping

    Primitive National Forest Camping

    This is a primitive area along the Palmetto Trail in the Francis Marion National Forest.

    Many hiker's heading to or coming down from the Appalachian Trail will camp here in a beautiful setting underneath live oak trees.

    There are 3 areas to camp: along the dirt loop road, a big field, and a few areas tucked back in the trees.

    This first appears to be a small campground due to the size of the road's loop. But, there are several large areas with plenty of room for tent or hammock camping.

    There are only a couple spots for an RV or Travel Trailer to park, but they are pull through along the side of the main loop.  

    Plenty of parking for those willing to walk their gear into the large field, or along the camping areas down by the trail. 

    Depending on the year, you'll either have this campsite all to yourself, or be sharing it with 100 other tents. Large groups love this free site (i.e. church youth groups) as it's easy to get to and about 30 minutes to Charleston, SC.

    I've always found this place to be one of those "nearest far away places" due to the seclusion.

    Everything here is pack in and pack out, so don't expect anything fancy, just a free and fun spot to camp for a night. Down the road is the Wambaw Cycle Trail, a maintained trail system for motocross & dirt bikes.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 1, 2020

    King Creek

    Campsite Close to Hiking, Waterfalls, and Whitewater

    King Creek is accessible via a short drive along a forest road and then another short drive down a muddy road slightly overgrown with vegetation. The only sign you will see is one saying camping is allowed, and it is difficult to see unless you are looking carefully. I was surprised that it had a spacious parking area and a spacious camping area. It is NOT for RVs. First of all, the road is narrow and vegetation hangs low along the road. It is uneven and sometimes muddy. 

    There is enough room to set up three or four tents, and there is a fire pit but no toilet. You only have to walk a few steps to your vehicle to get anything. You will also need to take in water or a water filter, any personal hygiene products, and your own little table if you want to cook off of the ground. 

    There is a tributary of the Chatooga River within a few steps of the campsite, so you can hear the sounds of the creek all night long. The fire pit is large, but there was a lot of trash in it. There are no gravel pads, which I like, but there was a grassy area to set up my tent, which I did like. 

    Unfortunately, the forest road was close enough that I could hear traffic passing by going to waterfalls and other areas. However, there is very little sound at night other than the creek. You cannot make reservations for the site(s), so it is first come, first served. 

    You won’t have any problems with noisy neighbors since it is limited to very few tents. It is actually recommended for only one tent, but it is big enough for a group with more than one tent. 

    Overall, it is a great place for solitude and since it is not easy to find, so not many people stay there.

  • Tami K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2024

    Pitts Landing Dispersed

    Secluded Gem

    This was a nice spot with flat, river front dispersed sites for tents or boondocking. It was easy to discern the campsites and had an open parking lot. There were a few sites that are not safe to drive to because of very loose sand. It is safer to park and explore on foot before driving up to those sites.

  • Silouan A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 28, 2025

    Willow Creek Trail

    Dispersed camping at the base of Kit Carson peak

    Approx 15 or so dispersed camp sites along the forest road up to the parking lot for Willow Lake trail. Easy access to sites, easy access to trail head. Restrooms also available at trailhead.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2021

    Blackwell Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Shhh, secret sweet spot…

    Access is rough, (moderate clearance vehicles required). Also, as courtesy - cruise the bridge and see if people are down there first, (both sides).

    Sweet backcountry spot! Nice gurgling stream and hiking trails.

  • Nick C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 27, 2022

    Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping

    Halfway Creek Dispersed

    Great little spot for primitive camping. Hiking trails are nice and groomed. Very peaceful and everyone stays to themselves.

Guide to South Carolina

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping in South Carolina, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping

  • Experience the tranquility of Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping, known for its peaceful atmosphere and well-groomed hiking trails.
  • This spot allows for campfires and is pet-friendly, making it a great choice for families and furry companions.
  • With no fees required, it’s an excellent option for those looking to enjoy nature without breaking the bank.

Scenic spots for fishing and wildlife watching

  • Guilliard Lake offers a picturesque setting where you can spot bald eagles and otters while enjoying a day of fishing.
  • The area around Blackwell Bridge is perfect for anglers, with easy access to the Chauga River and opportunities for trout fishing.
  • At King Creek, you can immerse yourself in the sounds of nature, with a nearby creek providing a soothing backdrop for your camping experience.

Top activities while free camping in South Carolina

  • Hikers will love the trails accessible from Mountain Rest Mountain Top, which lead to beautiful creeks and waterfalls.
  • For a unique experience, consider a boat-in camping trip to Goat Island, where you can enjoy secluded spots and stunning views of the water.
  • Falls Creek provides a great base for exploring the nearby Chattooga River, perfect for kayaking and enjoying the outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping in South Carolina?

South Carolina offers several dispersed camping opportunities across its forests and natural areas. The Francis Marion National Forest features Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping, which provides primitive camping along the Palmetto Trail with multiple camping areas under beautiful live oak trees. In the upstate region, Mountain Rest Mountain Top offers dispersed camping sites accessible via gravel roads with shade and proximity to hiking trails and a waterfall. Other dispersed camping locations include Willow Creek Trail, Blackwell Bridge, King Creek, and Pitts Landing Dispersed. Most sites require moderate clearance vehicles and are ideal for tent camping or small rigs, with many located near water features like creeks, lakes, or rivers.

What amenities can I expect at primitive camping sites in South Carolina?

Primitive camping sites in South Carolina offer minimal to no amenities, requiring self-sufficiency from campers. At King Creek, accessible via a forest road and slightly overgrown path, you'll find basic designated camping areas but must bring everything you need. Similarly, Caper's Island, a boat-in camping destination near Charleston, is strictly pack-it-in, pack-it-out with no facilities whatsoever. Most primitive sites lack potable water, electricity, trash service, and permanent restroom facilities. Some locations like Willow Creek Trail may have vault toilets at nearby trailheads, but this is the exception rather than the rule. Campers should bring all necessities including water, food, waste disposal bags, and emergency supplies. Cell service is typically limited or non-existent at these remote locations.

Is free camping allowed in South Carolina's national forests?

Yes, free camping is allowed in South Carolina's national forests, including Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests. Blackwell Bridge - Dispersed Camping offers free backcountry camping along a gurgling stream with hiking trails, though access requires moderate clearance vehicles. Willow Creek Trail provides approximately 15 dispersed sites along a forest road leading to the trailhead parking lot, with restrooms available at the trailhead. Free camping in national forests typically follows dispersed camping regulations: stay within designated areas, practice Leave No Trace principles, and limit stays to 14 days within a 30-day period. Always check current forest regulations before your trip, as some areas may have seasonal restrictions or closures due to weather or maintenance.

What's the difference between boondocking and dispersed camping in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, the terms boondocking and dispersed camping are often used interchangeably but have subtle differences. Boondocking typically refers to RV camping without hookups in undeveloped areas, while dispersed camping encompasses any camping outside developed campgrounds. Pitts Landing Dispersed offers flat, riverfront sites suitable for both tent camping and boondocking, illustrating how locations can serve both purposes. Guilliard Lake demonstrates the access limitations for boondocking, as reviewers note it's not suitable for large rigs or RVs due to poor road conditions. Both types require self-sufficiency and following Leave No Trace principles. The key difference is that boondocking specifically involves camping in a vehicle or RV without hookups, while dispersed camping can be done with tents or any camping setup in undeveloped forest areas.

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