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Best Equestrian Camping in South Carolina

201 Reviews

With four distinct geographical environments, South Carolina offers a wide variety of terrain, natural history, and climate in one relatively small state. With the option to drive from the mountains to the Atlantic coast in a few hours, camping in South Carolina is a great choice for those who want variety without a ton of travel time.

The state’s far northwest corner is home to mountains that rise above the foothills, appearing blue against the horizon. The Blue Ridge, arguably the most famous stretch of the Appalachians, provide a welcome respite from the hot South Carolina summers. In autumn, The Blue Ridge Mountains draw visitors from around the country to take in the breathtaking fall displays of color across the mountainsides. And no matter what season, camping in South Carolina would not be complete without a trip to iconic Table Rock or Sassafras Mountain – the highest point in the SC Blue Ridge Mountains.

A few hours south of the Blue Ridge, campers can set sail on Lake Murray, enjoy world-renowned fishing, or enjoy beach-front camping at Dreher Island State Park. The lake, a reservoir for the entire midlands area of the state, covers roughly 50000 acres and has 500 miles of shoreline. Lake Murray, which is a prime spot for fishing, has hosted 3 national fishing tournaments in the last 15 years and is home to several species of bass, crappie, bream, and other sport fishing favorites.

The stunning South Carolina coast is less than 3 hours from state capitol, Columbia, and boasts more than 200 miles of Atlantic coastline beauty. With more campgrounds up and down the coast than you can shake a stick at, trust The Dyrt to help you find the best camping in South Carolina!

Map showing campgrounds in South CarolinaExplore the Map

Best Equestrian Sites in South Carolina (25)

    1. Kings Mountain — Kings Mountain State Park

    46 Reviews
    Kings Mountain, SC
    Website
    +1 (803) 222-3209

    $13 - $31 / night

    "There is a nice playground, hiking trails, a lake, canoe rental, and a trading post with some food, ice, camping supplies, firewood and souvenirs. There is also a separate Equestrian campground!"

    "When not in the side, a short walk takes you to the Trading Post, a small store selling firewood ($7), ice, souvenirs, and sundries. Next to that is a large playground connected to a pavilion."

    2. Oconee State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-5353

    "This state park is located in a beautiful part of South Carolina. There are a range of fun hiking trails. The cabins are rustic, but with all the amenities you need for a trip to the mountains."

    "We spent 2 nights in one of the cabins in this beautiful state park during a road trip through South Carolina. And let me say, 2 nights was not enough! The cabin itself was very well kept."

    3. Sesquicentennial State Park Campground

    29 Reviews
    State Park, SC
    Website
    +1 (803) 788-2706

    "The site was level with a gravel drive and parking area. Lots of pines all around but the site was clear enough for easy parking. No sewer hookups."

    "The park is in Columbia SC, and is a great choice for families who may want to do things outside the park. The park is super close to the Riverbanks Zoo."

    4. Cheraw State Park Campground — Cheraw State Park

    15 Reviews
    Cheraw, SC
    Website
    +1 (843) 537-9656

    "For us this was a pleasant little stopover after a long drive. Nicely located next to a lake, there is also a nice little walk partially around the lake. It is a small campground with nice spots."

    "Perfect little gem on the outskirts of a dirty little town. Many amenities, beautiful views. A cute little beach area with kayak and canoe rentals. Day area open from 8am to sunset."

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

    16 Reviews
    Kinards, SC

    $5 - $150 / night

    "Only 23 sites, spaced a good distance apart. Each site has a fire pit and picnicking area. Trails nearby. Horses and other pets allowed."

    "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"

    6. South Cove County Park

    12 Reviews
    Seneca, SC
    Website
    +1 (864) 882-5250

    $25 - $60 / night

    "There are several large play areas in walking distance. There appeared to be beautiful lake views from almost every site. We very much enjoyed our stay and plan to return for a longer visit."

    "Perfect for kids, right on the lake. Loved the playground 😊

    warning! Don’t feed the geese! The campers next to us fed them and the next day we woke up with goose poop on everything!"

    7. Lee State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bishopville, SC
    Website

    "Only drawback would be this park is an equestrian park so you will most likely encounter flies during the warmer months. Sites are better than some state parks we have visited."

    "There are horse trails and stables if you ride horses."

    8. Chester State Park Campground

    4 Reviews
    Chester, SC
    Website
    +1 (803) 385-2680

    "When I checked in, the lady was nice enough to find a site with grass behind the gravel so I could set up my tent. She didn’t warn me that it was sloped."

    "Stayed 1 night, sites are close to each other. Small cabins available, walk-in campsites and restrooms are clean and updated."

    9. Wildwood County Park

    4 Reviews
    Modoc, SC
    Website

    "This park is just a few miles away from Mistletoe and we only stayed here because we could not get a site at Mistletoe."

    "Walking to other areas of the campground was a hike of several miles. Free WiFi available. Enjoyed our stay!"

    10. Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area Trailside Camping — Caesars Head State Park

    2 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, SC
    Website

    $4 - $20 / night

    "My friend and I hiked the Raven Cliff Falls loop trail a while back and have added it to our list of top 10 favorite trails."

    "Wonderful trails with breath taking views and technical climbs plus discrete camping."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos in South Carolina

2 Photos of 25 South Carolina Campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews in South Carolina

201 Reviews of 25 South Carolina Campgrounds

  • J
    Sep. 5, 2019

    Sesquicentennial State Park Campground

    In the middle of Columbia SC

    Built to celebrate the Sesquicentennial of South Carolina in the 30’s . At one time on the furthest outskirts of Columbia SC. It is now firmly in the muddle of the Metro area. Plenty of trailer sites. Tent site and primitive camping. Has recreational areas. Restaurants and shopping nearby

  • J
    Jul. 19, 2016

    Oconee State Park Campground

    Rustic cabins in a WPA Era State Park

    This state park is located in a beautiful part of South Carolina. There are a range of fun hiking trails. The cabins are rustic, but with all the amenities you need for a trip to the mountains.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2021

    Woods Ferry Campground (Sc) — Francis Marion And Sumter National Forests

    Secluded Campground in National Forest

    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. Apparently, there had been a lot of rain recently, and the area showed it. Woods Ferry is a campground mainly for campers who have horses. There are corrals at many of the campsites, so there are also a lot of horseflies. Horseflies and the actual site itself are my two main concerns. Selecting my campsite was my mistake. It was sloped, but there are a few others that were not sloped. There is running water and a pit toilet. Otherwise, you will have to take everything else in that you need. 

    Since South Carolina is hot during this time of year, I was a bit uncomfortable, especially since I was on a slope.

    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. 

    Overall, it’s not too bad for those who camp in an RV or a travel trailer, but it’s not ideal for tent campers.

  • Jessica S.
    Jul. 10, 2018

    Oconee State Park Campground

    Cute cabins in beautiful state park

    We spent 2 nights in one of the cabins in this beautiful state park during a road trip through South Carolina. And let me say, 2 nights was not enough! The cabin itself was very well kept. There was air conditioning, 2 bedrooms, 1 full kitchen, 1 full bathroom, and a fire place. We stopped at a Walmart in one of the towns before the park to stock up on food.

    There are multiple cabins scattered around the lake but they are a good distance apart from each other so you won't be disturbed by your neighbors. There was a fire ring and picnic in front of the cabin where we made smores after dinner and a cute screened porch with rocking chairs where we had coffee and breakfast on every morning. The cabin was right next to the small lake, which had a short trail going around it. We saw people fishing and I believe you can rent canoes as well in the park.

    You definitely need more than 2 days to explore this cute little park. There are multiple hiking trails near by and definitely a lot of wild life. But it was definitely a peaceful and quiet park perfect for a relaxing weekend away.

  • Cameron G.
    Nov. 15, 2022

    Oconee State Park Campground

    Halloween

    We love this park! We've been for Halloween twice now and out little guys loves it! The staff is so kind, and the garbage pick up twice a day is great! I will say, compared to other state parks, these campsites are TIGHT! Be prepared. We've come across this with other state parks in South Carolina. The facilities are clean, and the nature is beautiful! Can't go wrong with this campground!

  • D
    Nov. 19, 2021

    Sesquicentennial State Park Campground

    Campsite 41 was poorly planned and maintained

    Pros The pond was beautiful, nice walking trail for beginners, would never consider this a hiking park. Location was close to Colombia and all it offers. Bathhouse was acceptable but nothing to brag about. Toilets were three flushers is you cared about the next guy.

    Cons Guessing I may have had the worst site (41) but walking through there were others similar. Site 41 is a pull through lot which declines quickly upon entry and is marred by deep ra9n crevices. You then incline to the area you should probably land as there is an obvious flat spot. Unfortunately in you stop there, your camper door will open on the neighboring fire ring which is the only fire ring on the back side of the neighboring spot in in the fore ground of yours. Asinine. I had to manipulate my camper for an hour to a spot level enough yet not in my neighbor's fire and dealt with a large tree and had to tie back branches to extend my awning. Uggg

    Effing covid. The state of South Carolina, the City of Columbia don't have mask mandates. But this state park requires a mask to pee in the urinal. The boss says the county still mandates it.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2021

    Chester State Park Campground

    State Park with a Beautiful View of the Lake

    I gave this campground four stars, but only for RVs and travel trailers. I would not give it four stars for tent campers. Tent campers would have a hard time finding a suitable site that would not be too rocky. When I checked in, the lady was nice enough to find a site with grass behind the gravel so I could set up my tent. She didn’t warn me that it was sloped. With that said, it is a campground in a beautiful setting. The lake and the sitting area beside the lake are both beautiful. There is a paved walkway down to the lake to a sitting area and a dock. The bath house was air conditioned, almost too much. It is a shock to the system moving from the intense South Carolina heat into the bath house. However, it was a nice break from the heat. Be aware that when you take a shower, you may have to wait a few minutes for the hot water to start. When I first turned it on, I wondered if there was any hot water. Eventually it came, and it was HOT, so I had to adjust it quickly. Also, take your own hand soap with you. There are paper towels but no soap. There are several trails, and you can rent boats, peddle boats, canoes, and kayaks. There is also a disc golf course. If I had known beforehand, I would have taken my own discs. That’s my fault for not doing the research. My favorite part of this camping experience was waking up early in the morning and sitting by the lake. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to capture a photo of the ducks taking off and flying in a perfect v-formation, but it was so peaceful there. Overall, this is a great campground to get away from civilization.

  • The School for Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 11, 2020

    Camelot Farms Equestrian Center

    Awesome Spot

    This private campground has four hookup spots for RVs, as well as tent camping spots. You can reserve an RV space and for $35/night, you get a shaded, grassy spot to park with water and power (the dump station is just down the driveway).

    The highlight for us was the ability to ride horses. They provided us with two names of instructors, one of whom graciously squeezed us into her schedule and gave our girls a two-hour riding lesson in their covered arena. They also have trail rides to the beach available.

    We don’t have our own horses, but if we did, it seems like this place is set up to accommodate that easily.

    There are roadside fruit and veggie stands you pass on the way in that are worth a stop.

  • B
    Feb. 27, 2021

    H. Cooper Black Jr. Field Trial Area

    Campground for horse and dog lovers

    We absolutely love H Cooper Black campground. If you have horses they have campsites with corrals at your back door that you can also rent. Many horse trails for riding as well. They have several ponds that can be reserved if you have retriever dogs to train. They host many retriever tests on the weekend and they are fun to watch. The campground has full hookups and they have made lots of improvements the last few years and most are level and shaded. Two bathhouses close by that are always clean. If you are a horse or dog lover this is a great place to camp!

Guide to South Carolina

Horse camping in South Carolina offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and equestrian enjoyment, with several campgrounds catering specifically to horse enthusiasts.

Tips for equestrian camping in South Carolina

  • Ensure you have the necessary gear for both yourself and your horse, as some campgrounds may not provide amenities like water hookups or corrals.
  • Be prepared for varying terrain; sites like those at Woods Ferry Campground can be sloped, so choose your campsite wisely.
  • Always check for local regulations regarding horse camping, as some areas may have specific rules or restrictions.

Equestrian campgrounds include essential amenities

Most campgrounds have horse-focused activities

  • Lee State Park Campground provides numerous trails for horseback riding, along with a tranquil environment for relaxation.
  • Enjoy scenic rides at Sugarloaf Mountain, where you can explore beautiful views and rustic camping shelters.
  • Cheraw State Park Campground offers a peaceful setting with trails suitable for horseback riding, making it a great spot for family outings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at South Carolina horse campgrounds?

Camelot Farms Equestrian Center offers four RV hookup spots with water and power, a dump station, shaded grassy camping areas, and of course, horse riding opportunities. Equestrian campgrounds typically provide horse-specific amenities like corrals or stables, water troughs, and designated riding trails. Many state parks like Chester State Park Campground feature bathhouses, though tent sites may be limited due to terrain. Most horse campgrounds include picnic areas, fire rings, and access to trail systems. Some facilities offer guided rides or training areas, while others may have washing stations for horses and tack storage options.

Where are the best horse camping facilities in South Carolina?

H. Cooper Black Jr. Field Trial Area stands out with campsites featuring corrals at your back door for easy horse access and extensive riding trails. Woods Ferry Campground is another excellent option specifically designed for equestrian campers, though it's somewhat secluded and can be difficult to find. Both locations offer dedicated facilities for horses and riders. Other notable horse camping destinations include Whetstone Horse Camp in the Sumter National Forest and Lee State Park, which features equestrian-friendly trails and facilities.

When is the best season for horse camping in South Carolina?

Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant conditions for horse camping in South Carolina with moderate temperatures ideal for trail riding. Summer can be extremely hot and humid, potentially stressful for both horses and riders, though Oconee State Park Campground in the higher elevations provides some relief with its mountain setting. Winter camping is possible at Sesquicentennial State Park Campground and other locations that remain open year-round, though be prepared for occasional freezing temperatures, especially in the upstate region. Always check seasonal operating schedules, as some equestrian facilities have limited winter hours or trail closures after heavy rains.

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