Best Tent Camping in South Carolina

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!

Best Tent Sites in South Carolina (40)

    1. Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park

    27 Reviews
    Gadsden, SC

    $15 - $25 / night

    "Our time at Congaree was different from the other national parks we visited, because South Carolina had just undergone major flooding and much of Congaree -- especially its trails -- were under water."

    "The campground is primitive. There are 10 single sites that you have to walk into from the parking lot. Not a very long walk but just enough to feel secluded from traffic and other people."

    2. Burrells Ford

    18 Reviews
    Highlands, SC
    Website

    "Campground Review:

    In March 2017, our family of 6 went on our 1st overnight backpacking trip. A friend had recommended the Chattooga River Trail in South Carolina."

    "Trail/Campground Review:

    The East Fork trail at the end of Burrells Ford is quite an easy trail! "

    3. Jones Gap State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, SC
    Website

    "Love the privacy of this spot (#8) which is the closest walk in spot from the Parking area."

    "Tent camping only. Nice, private walk-in sites. Creek runs through park. Definitely no call service. Only an emergency call box if anything goes on at night. It's a pack in pack out park."

    4. Grapevine

    6 Reviews
    Long Creek, SC
    Website
    +1 (803) 561-4000

    "It is right next to the Chauga River, which makes it really nice for swimming and fishing. I actually saw some people cooking up fish in their campsite that they caught that day."

    "Vault toilet was clean and maintained. Most campsites are River side"

    5. Francis Marion National Forest

    6 Reviews
    Huger, SC
    Website
    +1 (843) 336-2200

    "Its right on the trail, it also allows for you to drive right up to the campground and park your car, set up camp and then head out for a hike."

    "Fantastic hiking, well maintained (during normal services), and the primitive campsites are the best "get-away" opportunity.

    Nature is abundant, both flaura and fauna."

    6. Primitive Camping By the Creek

    4 Reviews
    Grover, SC
    +1 (864) 761-6297

    $30 / night

    "On the campsite there is a lot of firewood to use, in a shed to keep it dry. There are log seats around a nice campfire with a picnic table. Lots of room for multiple tents."

    "It was very helpful and greatly appreciated after the 11hr drive. The campsite was spacious for us to set up camp and keep the jeep nearby."

    7. Leroys Ferry

    4 Reviews
    Lincolnton, SC
    Website
    +1 (800) 533-3478

    $10 / night

    "$10 bucks a night, sites spaced far enough apart to be comfortable, waterfront, not over crowded. I think it is worth the drive over some of the more crowded places."

    "Sites are only a hundred feet or so from the lake, so I threw up a hammock and watched the sunset over the water and spent time during the day swimming."

    8. Nature Adventures Outfitters

    4 Reviews
    Awendaw, SC
    Website
    +1 (843) 697-2075

    $38 / night

    "Primitive but beautiful and peaceful. If you’re looking for concrete pads and amenities, this isn’t for you. If a hammock is your style, book it."

    "Clean, tucked away site with gorgeous views of the stars and sunrise. Definitely no frills & a little run down, but a warm shower is a warm shower. Definitely will be back!"

    9. River Island Adventures

    3 Reviews
    North Myrtle Beach, SC
    Website
    +1 (843) 882-7487

    $40 - $65 / night

    "The workers were a joy to be around and very attentive. Our campsite was amazing"

    10. Sedalia Campground

    4 Reviews
    Cross Anchor, SC
    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."

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Showing results 1-10 of 40 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews in South Carolina

2000 Reviews of 40 South Carolina Campgrounds



Guide to South Carolina

Tent camping in South Carolina offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • At Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park, campers enjoy spacious walk-in sites with clean pit toilets and a solar-powered device charger available nearby.
  • Burrells Ford features semi-secluded campsites along the river, complete with fire pits and lantern posts for a cozy evening atmosphere.
  • Grapevine provides a remote experience with sites spread out near a river, allowing for a peaceful camping experience.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Hiking enthusiasts will love the trails accessible from Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park, which lead to the visitor center and main park trails.
  • Fishing and exploring waterfalls are popular at Burrells Ford, where the scenic river is teeming with trout.
  • For those seeking solitude, Grapevine offers a serene environment alongside the Chatooga River, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.

Some prices for tent camping range from free to $20

  • Camping at Burrells Ford is free, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious campers looking for a primitive experience.
  • Longleaf Campground — Congaree National Park offers reservable sites, typically priced around $20, providing a well-maintained camping experience.
  • At Grapevine, campers can enjoy a low-cost stay with the added benefit of nearby recreational activities.