Top Tent Camping in South Carolina
Looking for the best South Carolina tent camping? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping in South Carolina. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of South Carolina's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites in South Carolina (47)
1. Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park
Gadsden, South Carolina27 Reviews•94 Photos•2 SavesOverview
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
$25 / night
2. Burrells Ford
Highlands, North Carolina18 Reviews•103 Photos•293 SavesBurrells Ford campground is open year round with no charge. A pit toilet and picnic tables are available. Walk .25 miles to camp on the Chattooga River.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
3. Jones Gap State Park Campground
Cedar Mountain, North Carolina16 Reviews•53 Photos•144 SavesCamping Information : Camping is allowed only on designated campsites. Camping in other than designated areas may result in a fine. No drive up campsites are available on the park. There are no water or electricity provided at the campsites.
Camping Reservations : To make a backcountry trailside camping reservation, call toll-free 1-866-345-PARK (7275) or make it online by clicking Park Reservations. Reservations requested less than one (1) day in advance of check-in must be made directly through the park. For example: If today is Friday and you are making a reservation checking in on today, Friday, you must make the reservation by contacting the park directly.
Trailside Camping : The Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area offers trailside backcountry camping at 18 primitive sites. Fourteen sites provide fire pits, while four allow no fires. Permits are required, and camping is allowed in designated areas only.
Campers are asked to follow internationally recognized "leave no trace" camping practices. For more information on leave no trace practices, visit the official leave no trace ethics website.
Campers are asked to check-in at least two hours before dark in order to safely reach their campsites. Costs are $8-20/site/night.
Backcountry Group Camping: The Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area offers one backcountry group campsite. The group site can be reserved for 10-20 people. Reservations for the group campsite must be made by calling the park directly. Costs are $4.40 - 5.50/person/night. Registration is required.
PETS Pets : Pets are allowed in most outdoor areas provided they are kept under physical restraint or on a leash not longer than six feet. Owners will be asked to remove noisy or dangerous pets or pets that threaten or harass wildlife.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
4. Grapevine
Long Creek, South Carolina6 Reviews•24 Photos•68 SavesPrimitive campsite. Primitive campsites are typically sites within the forest that have been designated for use based on desirable location. Most primitive sites have no amenities such as toilets or picnic tables. Stay is limited to 14 days. Saddle, pack and draft animals are not permitted at any campsite.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Toilets
- Alcohol
5. Francis Marion National Forest
Huger, South Carolina6 Reviews•4 Photos•47 SavesAll sites are open with the exception of the following: Buck Hall Campground - closed while work is still underway on the water system. Reservations have been canceled through Feb. 7 in anticipation to re-open Wambaw Cycle Trail - closed until the trail can be assessed for hazards. Anticipate opening later this week. Boggy Head Rifle Range - closed. The site was used and abused heavily during the shutdown. Users ignored the site inappropriately and left trash. It is closed until the site can be thoroughly cleaned. Note: Please mark your calendar for Sat., Feb. 2 for the annual Francis Marion National Forest annual cleanup. If you would like to volunteer meet at the Huger Recreation Area at 9 a.m.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
6. Primitive Camping By the Creek
Grover, North Carolina4 Reviews•5 Photos•59 SavesPrimitive camping by the creek currently has 2 very private camp sites. Fire pits and wood is provided at each site. Picnic tables are also available. We are currently open 7 days a week, 12 months of the year. Each site is primitive and private - We have one potable water spigot, and a outhouse with working toilet, which is shared between the two campsites. No electricity (generates are allowed). Each site has a max, of 6 to 8 persons. Pets are allowed but must be on a leash at all times.
Campers/small RV's/Vans are allowed, sites are level and drive through. Trash bins are provide at each site.
We are located less than a 1/2 mile from Interstate 85, at exit 104. There are gas stations (with showers), convenient stores and restaurants close by.
We are within 15 minutes drive to horse, bike, and hiking trails. Kings Mtn State Park, Kings Mtn National Park and Crowders Mtn State Park.
If you have any question contact David @ 864-761-6297.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$30 / night
7. Leroys Ferry
Lincolnton, Georgia4 Reviews•8 Photos•51 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$10 / night
8. Nature Adventures Outfitters
Awendaw, South Carolina4 Reviews•12 Photos•64 SavesTent campites on the Intercoastal Waterway overlooking the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. This is a nature lovers dream. We offer primitive campsites that have access to communal water sources, power, restrooms, and shower facilities. Our campground has a full length basketball court, Pickleball Court, and swings for your enjoyment. You will have access to a floating dock for launch of kayaks into the Intracoastal Waterway. If you do not have your own kayak, we always have them for rent. There is easy access to the iconic Awendaw Passage of the Palmetto Trail, which runs directly through the property and offers hiking and off-road biking opportunities. If you love to set up hammocks, we encourage that on our many majestic Oaks and Palmettos around the property. There are also many offsite activities in the surrounding area that you can enjoy. Please refer to the park map in the photos.
The Flushing Toilets, Showers, and Water source is located at the Conference Center area of the property(there are portable toilets at waterfront). You will need to bring something to store your water in. Power access is at the Conference Center and a single access point at the waterfront. You can easily drive between the waterfront camping area and the Conference Center.
You can drive directly to the sites and park. We do allow camper vans and small popup tents/campers. We do not have hookups at each site so you will need to plan accordingly. Anything over 20 feet is not allowed. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table.
There is a communal area at the end of dock for everyone to enjoy. The swings and basketball/pickleball court is for everyone as well(basketballs, pickleball equipment, soccer balls, footballs, and other recreation equipment are provided).
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$38 / night
9. River Island Adventures
North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina3 Reviews•14 Photos•66 SavesWe are the only adventure outfitter that has an outpost on the Waccamaw River that features 1 acre of fun yard games, tree swings, hammocks, large fire pit, clean bathroom, boat dock & ramp, river side picnic tables and access to a 48 acre private island in the middle of the river to explore and camp overnight!
We offer a variety of activities and adventures, including: Escape River Island, kayak and river boat tours to our private island, custom overnight river camping trips, birthday & group events.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Cabins
- Dispersed
$40 - $65 / night
10. Sedalia Campground
Cross Anchor, South Carolina4 Reviews•16 Photos•17 SavesSedalia Campground, Sumter National Forest, Enoree Ranger District. Sedalia is a primitive campground that has designated campsites in open areas surrounded by woods. Four single-family campsites and one group site are open year-round, fourteen day stay limit is in effect. Sedalia Campground, Seasonal Campsites; An additional camping loop is open for big game deer and turkey seasons which offers five more single family campsites and two group campsites from $5/night, $50/calendar month, $150/season for single family campsites and $10/night, $100/calendar month, and $300/big game deer season for the group campsites. Seasonal Camping Opportunities
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
Showing results 1-10 of 47 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In South Carolina
1894 Reviews of 47 South Carolina Campgrounds
Pitts Landing
Popular with the locals.
We made our way here just before Hurricane Milton hit Florida and stayed a week right next to the river. Very busy during the day with local fishermen. There's a lot of garage spread out, we cleaned up our area the best we could. Close to a busy highway but it didn't bother us. The river is gorgeous and we spent a good amount of our time here kayaking.
Hanscombe Point Campground
Solitude and Ease of Use/Booking
This was one of the best experiences of our life. We are seasoned campers but this was our first Dyrt booking. The whole process was easy and clear. As millennials we appreciate the privacy and the fact that we didn’t have to call anyone or really deal with anyone. Waking up to cows/water buffalo was an added bonus. The host does an amazing job and provide amenities that really upgrade the primitive nature. Nice privy, campfire ring, picnic table. To the family that owns this place, thank you for allowing us to visit your property. This was a beautiful experience and we are so grateful you share this slice of heaven with us. Thank you. Coming again next week.
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!
Campground at James Island County Park
We love this campground!!
So much to do— quiet and family friendly. Bike rentals, dog park, fishing pond, laundry, water park, etc. Large corner lot with plenty of shade. 20 mins from Folly Beach! Will be back!
Hanscombe Point Campground
Great campsite
Loved the location, and it’s so fun waking up to cattle!
Table Rock State Park Campground
Quite and peaceful
The site was big with lot of more plus private. The bathroom was clean and showers were hot.
Kings Mountain — Kings Mountain State Park
Disappointing
I recently stayed for 3 nights with my popup in site#10. The site is a good size for a tent or small camper only. Overall we were surprised by the campground based on other reviews . In my opinion The sites are close together, poorly maintained, and most are very small. The Trading Post is nicely stocked, and open all day. The bathrooms near my site were the best part…it was modern, clean and the showers were hot with good pressure. But other than the bathrooms everything felt like it hadn’t been maintained at all. Won’t be coming back.
Hamilton Branch State Park Campground
4 Camper Party
4 families in 4 campers on a first time visit. Great place! If you want to come for solitude then the “sights”provide that for sure. Park staff very helpful and friendly. Definitely a do over. Only downside was we didn’t realize water level was down. Didn’t affect the views but trodding the mud to get to the water made kayaking a little challenging.
Apache Family Campground
Disappointing and dirty
It is insanely packed so in a tent, you have no privacy at all. It’s also very loud and bright during the night cause of all the lights for example at the restaurant. The showers were a disgrace and need to be renovated and they booked my tent at a RV side so I paid over 70$ for one night. You don’t feel like you are at a campground but in the middle of a city.
Eagle's RV Campground
No frills
Overnight stop, kinda tight getting off the 2 lane road into the entrance. Not too far from 95. Traffic was noisy as we had a spot right up front. Works for an overnight but nothing more.
Hamilton Branch State Park Campground
Quiet loop, private, lakefront
The site is right on the lake with a wide trail leading directly to the water. The water was low during our trip so the immediate shoreline was a bit squishy going through the damp clay. I’d recommend water shoes. The shade provided by the trees was a welcome respite from the summer heat. It also provided ample privacy from neighbors on either side. Neighboring sites are spread out nicely. The area across the road from the site is undeveloped and recently cleared for forest maintenance but still looks nice. This campground loop is very quiet.
Hideaway RV Park
trip
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Broken Oak Organics
Great Host, numerous nearby mountain hike trails
Secure, tidy, private, stream side and cozy spot with on site grown fresh vegetables. Nearby locally owned eateries. Plentiful asphalt plus off road bicycling. 2024 shower and bathroom.
Hanscombe Point Campground
PRIMITIVE
I stayed here for 4 nights and each one was different. The first night (Thursday) I was the only one there. Well, except for the Racoon who thought I was an easy mark for a meal. No such luck Rocky! The second night 1 other person came along. The sites are so big that we had a lot of privacy while still knowing someone was around if necessary. The 3rd night was Saturday and almost all of the sites were filled. Quiet, respectful and efficient seems to be the general behavior of campers here. The last night, it was just me and the other guy again. Don't be startled by the cows and donkeys who come to visit in the morning. There is an outhouse, but I don't use outhouses, so LNT and be aware that this is a working farm, the animals have the right of way. Oh yeah, a dolphin swam by in the inlet one morning. Took me by surprise!!!
Ocean Lakes Family Campground
Awesome waterpark!! Very crowded...
The RV spaces really have no shade or trees, so if you like the sun and to be directly off the beach,this place is for you. They have alot of amenities to offer, including a waterpark with multiple pools, watersides, lazy river, kids' play area, mini golf. They have alot going on here for families. The beach has basketball courts, playgrounds, and you can rent golfcarts. It's a very busy with alot of people driving all around. The beach water was so clean and warm. You can also rent trailers or huge beach houses who share the same pool. The area has so much to do, including pirates adventure, Broadway on the beach, and the hangout with the foam party.
Dillon Bass Lake
Much more than expected
Bass Lake was at the right place for an overnight right off of I-95. Although right next to I-95, the drone of the traffic fades into the background once you pull into the well landscaped campground (Bass Lake as the setting of a wooden campground) with absolutely level sites. Staff and owner were wonderful - and what I learned about coffee from the owner (Frizzy's Coffee House) is why I'm going to route every trip possible through Dillon in the future - more knowledgeable than any barista I've ever met, I experienced what coffee ROASTED the day before tastes like!
Broken Oak Organics
Great family getaway
Easy access to the site and the beautiful river. Nice level site with a Mountain View. My family enjoyed the huge lawn for yard games, and the river was beautiful! Shallow enough for the kids play, with some nice spots to catch
Brown and rainbow trout. Bathroom and shower was really nice and clean. Fire pit was steps away overlooking the river. Fair price for all the amenities. Kayak rentals were even available.
Calhoun Falls State Park Campground
Another Favorite
We’ve camped here multiple times. We are always impressed with the spacious sites, lake access, quiet relaxing atmosphere.
Ocean Lakes Family Campground
Fun family time
Love all the daily activities and amenities. Bathhouse is always clean and staff is helpful.
The Point at Lake Hartwell
Great place to go, friendly staff
Eenjoyed staying there, staff was awesome and really did a great job keeping the guest happy. The 4th of July events was awesome and was a full day of contest and ended with a DJ kicking the tunes. Recommend to all to give them a try!
The Point at Lake Hartwell
Quiet but lacking
Stayed over 4th of July weekend. Couldn’t believe how quiet it was for a holiday. There isn’t anything around at all. They offer a pool but no other activities (they did have some 4th activities but it was all seasonal). It backs to the lake so if you have a boat it’s nice. But when we went on the lake we saw many other campgrounds that looked nicer. There is one dumpster that we had to walk to to throw trash away. No pick up or closer locations. Not level sites. Mostly seasonal which is fine but not a great place or easy to get in/out of if transient. Other campgrounds closer to Clemson. No town nearby at all.
Devils Fork State Park Campground
July in Devils Fork
First time at this State Campground. Fairly easy to find and navigate within the community. Ranger staff was supper friendly. For being early July it’s in the mid to high 80’s. The humidity is low. The nights dipped down in the low 70’s. The nights are bearable; the abundance of trees drives down the summer heat. You have to walk to your tent site. It’s not that long of a trek but if you have a large entourage, or if you’re of the mindset of bring with you all the amenities from home; there will be a lot of back n forth to your vehicle. It’s quiet at night time for there being lots of people onsite. The camp sites are far enough apart and have enough trees coverage/ shading to give you some privacy. Make sure you bring a good headband light or strong flashlight with you to walk back n forth to your vehicle & bathroom at night. We brought a camp style portable potty. The bathroom is just too far for us to walk in the middle of the night especially with a 4yr old. Highly recommend campsite. The lake beach access was nice. Water was cool and refreshing. My one complaint of the beach access was; there were far too many people with carelessness leaving trash, abandoned clothes, diapers, water toys, and all sorts of debris littering the beach rocks, etc. We had a wonderful time. Highly recommend experience with the family.
Lucky Farms Under the Stars
Lucky Farms Under the Stars
Nice little campsite. The host is very communicative. Nice open field with great nestled area for campfires.
Devils Fork State Park Campground
Great spot to family camp!
We had a very pleasant time at this campground. The water and bathrooms were close and clean which was great for the kids and our dogs to get water. The lake was a short walk and absolutely stunning! Crystal clear water allowed us to look at the schools of fish swimming with us. There are plenty of small mouth bass to be claimed as well! We will definitely be back!
Pitts Landing
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.
Sumter National Forest Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area
"roughing it" in a small secluded campground.
I spent a great couple of days here mid-week in mid-June. There was one other occupied campsite (out of 9) the first night and I had the whole place to myself the second. No showers, no wi-fi or cell sevice, no dump station, no electricity, and a common water spigot-just what I wanted. No reservations either.
There were people who came to fish in the pond (more of a pond than a lake) and I had a nice swim.. There are two trails. A short one (about a mile) around the pond and a longer 5.6 mile loop. Great trail.
Be sure to check the website for problems beforehand. The water was out when I was there (actually it was restored just as I pulled out!!!).
So all in all, I great place if you want a rough campsite with few others around.
Thousand Trails Carolina Landing
Average Park- Would return
Cabin 3 stars- Older cabin, clean, spacious with very large living area, loft area small and a bit dingy, shared porch Campground 3 stars-wooded, shady, hilly Amenities 3 stars- a bit run down Staff 3 stars-average
Guide to South Carolina
Camping in South Carolina offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in this charming state.
What to do
- Explore the lakes: Many campgrounds, like Dreher Island State Park Campground, are right by the water. Campers love the chance to kayak and fish. One reviewer said, “We spent 90% of our time on the lake swimming, paddle-boarding, and kayaking.”
- Hiking and biking: Trails are abundant, especially at places like Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park. A visitor noted, “There are a couple of hiking trails and a short nature trail, both accessible from the Islanders Camp Circle.”
- Wildlife watching: Campers often spot various birds and other wildlife. One camper at Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park mentioned, “Great day adventure... the nature facility provides knowledge of the area and the wildlife.”
What campers like
- Scenic views: Campgrounds like Lake Wateree State Park Campground offer stunning waterfront sites. A happy camper shared, “Site #1 on the lake. Level paved driveway lots of shade. Great campground.”
- Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Poinsett State Park Campground said, “The toilets were CLEAN! And I mean we were there for 24 hours and the bathroom was cleaned at least twice.”
- Friendly staff: Campers often mention helpful rangers and hosts. A visitor at Colleton State Park Campground noted, “The rangers are very helpful and the camp host was terrific.”
What you should know
- Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Brick House Campground, have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, “There is no running water. The closest water is 5 or 6 miles in either direction, so pack plenty.”
- Seasonal crowds: Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. One camper at Santee Lakes KOA said, “Very crowded and was a one-night stop for many RVs!!”
- Weather considerations: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. A camper at Dreher Island State Park Campground shared, “There was a big storm for about an hour after we set up camp, but the site drained well.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids, like playgrounds. One reviewer at Sesquicentennial State Park Campground mentioned, “Has a splash pad and kayak rentals.”
- Plan activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. A camper at Cypress View Campground noted, “The campground has hiking/biking trails. Lake views from our site.”
- Pack snacks: Having food on hand can make family camping easier. One camper at Lake Wateree State Park Campground said, “Not much near the site for supplies so bring your supplies if possible.”
Tips from RVers
- Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A visitor at Andrew Jackson State Park Campground mentioned, “Sites are paved, but don’t expect completely level.”
- Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Colleton State Park Campground offer full hookups, which many RVers appreciate. A camper said, “Every site is full hookup.”
- Be mindful of road conditions: Some campgrounds have rough roads. A reviewer at Poinsett State Park Campground noted, “Roads were really heavy with potholes, so not the friendliest for RVs.”
Camping in South Carolina is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful scenery!