The 18 Best Campgrounds In South Carolina – Top-Rated & Hidden Gems

Are you looking for the perfect place to pitch your tent and spend quality time in nature? Check out our list of the best camping in South Carolina. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 18 best campgrounds in South Carolina so you can easily plan your next outdoor adventure.

From the stunning beaches off the coast to the rolling hills of the Upstate, there are plenty of top-rated and hidden gem campgrounds to choose from. Whether you’re an experienced camper or just starting, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful state. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all South Carolina has to offer!

Best State Park Campgrounds in South Carolina

South Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful state park campgrounds. With stunning scenery, excellent amenities, and a wide range of activities, these campgrounds offer visitors the chance to experience nature at its finest. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure, South Carolina’s state park campgrounds have it all.

108 Residence Dr, Sunset, SC 29685, USA

Michael Casavant/Google Local

• Location: Sunset, South Carolina
• Popularity: The park is smaller and less crowded, so it is more private. The busiest time to visit is in the summer months.
• Park Info: Free park admission, pet-friendly, Wi-Fi available, EV charging station, restroom facilities, hot showers, dump station, fire rings, grill pits, and a two-night minimum.
• Price: $13-$375/night

Keowee-Toxaway State Park offers wonderful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, two hiking trails, and fishing opportunities. The campground has paved sites with water and electrical hookups, tent areas, and primitive camping sites. Backcountry camping is allowed at designated sites, and a rental cabin offers a comfortable stay with a scenic overlook of Lake Keowee.

161 Holcombe Cir, Salem, SC 29676, USA

Paul Mahaffey/Google Local

• Location: Salem, South Carolina
• Popularity: Heavy visitation on weekends and holidays expect long lines when entering the park, especially from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Park Info: Park admission fee, pet-friendly, Wi-Fi available, EV charging station, water and electrical hookups, dump station, picnic tables, fire rings, and laundry facilities. Camping check-in is at 2 p.m., check-out is at noon, and there is a two-night minimum.
• Price: $25-$355/night

Devils Fork State Park in South Carolina is a secluded and peaceful spot with a beautiful lake, perfect for swimming, scuba diving, and trout fishing. Overnight guests can stay at fully-furnished villas or campgrounds near Lake Jocassee. The main campground accommodates RVs up to 40 feet with picnic tables and fire rings, while tent campers can enjoy rustic walk-in sites. Boat-in backcountry campsites are also available on the northern shore of the lake for a more secluded experience.

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8377 State Cabin Rd, Edisto Island, SC 29438, USA

Kenneth Marple/Google Maps

• Location: Edisto Island, South Carolina
• Popularity: Summer is the peak season.
• Park Info: Park admission fee, pet-friendly, Wi-Fi available, water and electrical hookups, 20/30/50 amp electrical service, and a minimum of two nights. Edisto Beach offers a water filling station for up to five gallons daily. Bottled water is also sold at nearby gas stations and grocery stores.
• Price: $25-$225/night

Edisto Beach State Park in South Carolina offers stunning natural beauty and a chance to explore the area's Native American history. Visitors can hike or bike along picturesque trails, visit the environmental education center and stay overnight in furnished cabins or campsites. The park offers 112 standard sites with water and electrical hookups, as well as RV accommodations, tent camping, and cabin options.

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158 E Ellison Ln, Pickens, SC 29671, USA

Keith Phillips/Google Maps

• Location: Pickens, South Carolina
• Popularity: Busy on weekends during peak season (summer and fall).
• Park Info: Park admission fee, pet-friendly, Wi-Fi available, water and electrical hookups, picnic tables, restrooms, hot showers, laundry facilities, and a dump station. All campers must check in upon arrival at the visitors center, and a minimum of two nights stay is required.
• Price: $20-$219/night

Are you looking to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of South Carolina? Look no further than Table Rock State Park. This 3,000-acre park boasts views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with Table Rock itself as a majestic backdrop. Visitors can enjoy traditional outdoor activities such as swimming and camping, and hiking trails offer access to the 76-mile Foothills Trail, which connects several South Carolina State Parks. With 69 campsites, 25 RV sites, and 14 fully furnished cabins, Table Rock State Park has something to offer everyone.

Best Beach Camping in South Carolina

South Carolina offers some of the best beach camping spots, including Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell, High Falls County Park, Hunting Island State Park, and Capers Island Heritage Preserve. Each of these spots offers a unique camping experience with excellent ocean or lake views and secluded sites surrounded by nature. It’s the perfect way to relax and escape from everyday life.

140 Winnebago Trail, Pendleton, SC 29670, USA

Juan Camilo/Google Local

• Location: Pendleton, South Carolina
• Popularity: Very popular.
• Park Info: Water hookups, electricity hookups, swimming, fishing, boating, boat ramp, dock, dump station, flush toilets, grills, lake access, lantern posts, playground, showers, waterfront sites, fire rings, and sewer hookups.
• Price: $26-$56/night

Twin Lakes is a beautiful waterfront campground on Lake Hartwell, offering gorgeous views and easy lake access. With plenty of shoreline and hiking trails, it's perfect for outdoor lovers. Convenient camping facilities like electric and water hookups, flush toilets, drinking water, and showers are available. Amenities such as a boat ramp, picnic shelters, and a playground are also accessible for campers to enjoy. Nearby attractions include Clemson, South Carolina, and Clemson University, along with grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants.

671 High Falls Rd, Seneca, SC 29672, USA

Mathew Generally/Google Local

• Location: Seneca, South Carolina
• Popularity: Little-known Beach campground. Peak: early May through early September.
• Park Info: Campers must arrive with camping gear and be ready to set up. Only registered ones can enter post-hours; gate locks at 10 p.m., open 7 a.m. $50 fee for gate access 10 p.m.-7 a.m.
• Price: $25-$30/night

High Falls Park is a stunning 46-acre park that lies in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Keowee. Lake Keowee spans over 18,000 acres and is a beautiful, pristine blue reservoir, perfect for water sports and fishing.

The park offers 91 campsites, 10 of which are located right on the waterfront. All campsites have electrical hookups (20 and 30 amp), water service, and bathhouses within the campgrounds. The dump station is located just outside the park entrance as well.

Day-use facilities include picnic tables with charcoal grills, a swimming area, a restroom, miniature golf, a tennis and basketball court, volleyball, two boat ramps, a fishing pier, and a playground.

29907, Beaufort, SC 29907, USA

Yadira Lopez/Google Local

• Location: Beaufort, South Carolina
• Popularity: Very popular, especially in the summer.
• Park Info: Park admission fee, pet-friendly, Wi-Fi available, fire rings, picnic tables, restrooms with hot showers, water and electrical hookups, laundry facilities, and a dump station.
• Price: $45-$325/night

Hunting Island State Park in South Carolina is a natural wonderland with five miles of beautiful beaches, thousands of acres of marsh and forest, and a saltwater lagoon and ocean inlet. The park also features a historic lighthouse, which was first built in 1859 and then rebuilt in 1875. Camping options include 100 campsites with water and electrical hookups, a walk-in camping area with tent pads, fire rings, and picnic tables, and two campgrounds with individual water and electrical hookups. A primitive group camping area and cabins are also available.

Awendaw, SC 29429, USA

Michael Trotman/Google Local

• Location: Awendaw, South Carolina
• Popularity: Remote hidden gem.
• Park Info: Overnight camping on the island is by permit only, which can be obtained from the DNR Charleston office. The number of campers is limited to 80 people per night, divided into no more than 20 groups. Permits will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis, and campsites will likewise be occupied on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Price: Free

Are you on the hunt for a remote coastal camping adventure? Then, Capers Island in South Carolina is worth considering. This beautiful island is just an hour north of Charleston and can only be accessed by boat from the Gadsdenville public boat launch. Capers Island is a true gem, being one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands on the Southeastern seaboard. It boasts a diverse range of habitats, including several miles of beachfront, large salt marshes, and upland maritime forest. It's important to note that Capers Island is a no-frills camping destination, with no amenities available beyond what you bring with you.

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Top Glamping in South Carolina

Indulge in the epitome of luxury camping amidst South Carolina’s captivating scenery. From treehouses in the heart of lush forests to lavish cabins with panoramic lake views, the state offers a splendid array of glamping experiences. Embark on a journey through this guide to discover the finest glamping destinations.

1251 State Rd S-37-14 37 14, Mountain Rest, SC 29664, USA

Wildwater Ltd/Facebook

• Location: Mountain Rest, South Carolina
• Popularity: Very popular.
• Park Info: Check-in is 3 p.m., and check-out is 10:30 a.m. Wildwater Chattooga activities are within walking distance of all lodging.
• Price: $79-$549/night

Are you planning a thrilling adventure getaway in Long Creek, South Carolina? Look no further than Wildwater Chattooga! This adventure center offers exhilarating activities, including white water rafting, ziplining, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayak tours. And the best part? You can stay overnight in their comfortable lodging options, which range from luxury houses and cabins to cozy yurts. Even if you're not booking an adventure, the Yurt Village provides a convenient and affordable choice for your stay. Wildwater Chattooga has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation in the heart of the upstate area of South Carolina.

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251 State Park Rd, Santee, SC 29142, USA

South Carolina State Parks/@sodacitydroneguy

• Location: Santee, South Carolina
• Popularity: Spring and early summer make up the park's busiest time.
• Park Info: Cabins 2, 4, 7, 9, 20, and 23 are the smaller cabins. Cabins 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10-19, 21, 22, and 24-30 are larger in size. Pets are currently permitted in Cabins 11 and 12 and 13-20.
• Price: $129-$159/night

Check out the Santee State Park for an excellent glamping experience in South Carolina. Located along Lake Marion, this park offers a variety of camping options, including ten fantastic rondette cabins situated on piers over the lake.

These cabins have been a family favorite for years, but if you prefer more traditional accommodations, there are also 20 cabins located along the lakeshore. Each two-bedroom cabin is fully furnished and comes with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including heating, air-conditioning, linens, and basic cooking and eating utensils. You'll also find a coffee maker, microwave, and TV in each cabin.

But that's not all! Santee State Park also features the Village Round, a community meeting building with a large, screened-in grilling facility, as well as biking and hiking trails and pontoon boat tours of the flooded cypress forest on Lake Marion. Whether you're a South Carolina native or an out-of-towner, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Santee State Park.

421 Sprouse Rd, Clarks Hill, SC 29821, USA

Tiffany/Google Maps

• Location: Clarks Hill, South Carolina
• Popularity: Hidden gem.
• Park Info: Bath, hair dryer, cleaning products, hot water, washing machine, dryer, towels, linens, soap, toilet paper, hangers, TV, air conditioning, heating, ceiling fan, Wi-Fi, and a kitchen.
• Price: $249/night average

Nestled in the heart of 11 acres of pristine land, just five minutes away from Clarks Hill Lake, are four luxurious treehouses that offer the perfect blend of nature and comfort.

These 650 square-foot treehouses are fully furnished with a queen bed on the main level and another queen bed upstairs in the loft, ensuring a good night's sleep. But the charm of these tree houses lies in their wrap-around deck that offers unbeatable views.

The outdoor activities here are endless, from playing disc golf on the 9-hole course to a friendly game of horseshoes, putting on the green, or simply roasting marshmallows around the fire pit. And, of course, no camping trip is complete without delicious BBQ, which you can enjoy thanks to the charcoal grill provided. So, if you're looking for a unique and unforgettable getaway, look no further than the Treesort SC.

Best RV Camping Sites in South Carolina

Discover the ultimate RV camping experience in the charming landscapes of South Carolina. From coastal havens with stellar views to serene lakeside retreats, the state offers a diverse range of options for RV campers.

If you’ve got an RV or plan on renting an RV, you’ve got to check out these RV campsites! They’re seriously going to level up your whole camping game.

520 Southern Sights Dr, Longs, SC 29568, USA

Larry Shoemaker/Google Maps

• Location: Longs, South Carolina
• Popularity: Family-friendly spot that is particularly busy during the summer.
• Park Info: Swimming pools, basketball court, laundry room, in-lake water park, heated pool, jacuzzi, freshwater lakes, playground, game room, nature trails, bike/walking trails, fitness center, dog park, dog beach, bathhouse, catch and release, and pickleball.
• Price: $90-$245/night

Willow Tree RV Resort and Campground is the perfect spot for a getaway just minutes from the beach but miles away from the city. They offer lakeside and premium pull-thru RV sites with full hookups and pet-friendly areas. The lakefront cottages have a luxurious home-away-from-home atmosphere with unmatched views of the massive lake. There are many fantastic campground amenities, including free Wi-Fi, movies, books, and activities that will keep the whole family entertained. No matter what you're looking for in a vacation destination, you're sure to find it at Willow Tree.

320 Big Water Rd, Starr, SC 29684, USA

Big Water Marina and Campground/Google Maps

• Location: Starr, South Carolina
• Popularity: Family-friendly spot that is particularly busy during the summer.
• Park Info: Bar and grill, lakeside RV grounds with partial and full hookup sites, cabin rentals, Splash Island, watercraft rentals, boat slips, dry storage, fuel station, general store, pavilion, rooftop bar, ship store, kid zone, free Wi-Fi, ATM, and restrooms.
• Price: $50-$195/night

If you want a great place to enjoy Lake Hartwell, look to Big Water Marina. The campground offers a full range of services to make your experience a fun and comfortable time. Whether you're looking for boat storage or just a fun day out on the water, they've got you covered. The campground and tiny cabin village offer a perfect lakeside getaway, and on-site activities like Splash Island and J.R. Cash's Grill & Bar provide plenty of entertainment options for the whole family. So come down and soak up the sun at Big Water Marina.

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463 Cane Creek Camp Rd, Cross Hill, SC 29332, USA

Lake Greenwood Motorcoach Resort

• Location: Cross Hill, South Carolina
• Popularity: Hidden gem.
• Park Info: Fishing, boating, water sports, nature trail, full hook-ups with 50-amp service, boat docks and storage, clubhouse, laundry facility, Wi-Fi, and a dog park.
• Price: $157-$281/night

Upstate South Carolina is the perfect destination for outdoor lovers. You can enjoy world-class golf courses, scenic trails, winery tours, antique shops, and more. Lake Greenwood Motorcoach Resort is an RV camper's paradise that offers stunning views of the lake and mature landscaping. You can rent or buy a lot for your Class A or Super C motorcoach. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and social activities. Visit and experience the luxury and serenity of Lake Greenwood Motorcoach Resort - a true hidden gem.

5800 SC-90, Conway, SC 29526, USA

Sun Outdoors Myrtle Beach/Google Maps

• Location: Conway, South Carolina
• Popularity: Very popular family-friendly spot.
• Park Info: Outdoor swimming pools, mini bowling alley, mini golf, arcade, hot tubs, indoor swimming pool, cabana rentals, golf cart rentals, bars, restaurants, playgrounds, courts, yoga studio, fitness center, Wi-Fi, dog parks, comfort stations, and a general store and gift shop.
• Price: $63-$240/night

Nestled among majestic Loblolly pine trees, this vacation resort offers a splash of Southern charm and a host of outdoor adventures. Whether you're parking your RV (comes complete with full hookups for 30/50 amp electrical, water, sewer, and cable) or staying in one of the cozy cottages, you'll enjoy access to incredible resort-style amenities. Take the plunge on the three-story tall water slides at Carolina Splash Water Park, play a round of miniature golf, or try your luck in the Red Fox Arcade. Are you looking for a more relaxing escape away from the kids? Head to the adults-only pool, sip cool drinks in a private cabana, or float down the meandering lazy river. And when it's time to refuel, sample local flavors at the Lowcountry Landing Bistro. With so much to do, Sun Outdoors Myrtle Beach is the perfect destination for a memorable family vacation.

Best Primitive Tent Camping in South Carolina

Step off the beaten path and embrace the raw beauty of nature with the best primitive tent camping that South Carolina has to offer. Leave the modern world behind and immerse yourself in the rugged landscapes, where simplicity becomes an adventure of its own.

303 Jones Gap Rd, Marietta, SC 29661, USA

Hiker Shirl/Google Local

• Location: Marietta, South Carolina
• Popularity: Hidden gem.
• Park Info: Check-in at least two hours before dusk for a safe campsite setup. There is also an admission fee to enter the pet-friendly park.
• Price: $18-$31/night

Check out Jones Gap State Park, the perfect serene mountain retreat. It boasts an impressive 13,000 acres of pristine woodlands, and the trails offer hikers a chance to connect with nature and explore the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. You can even trek to the neighboring Caesars Head State Park via the Jones Gap State Park trails.

The Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area has 18 primitive sites for trailside backcountry camping. Fourteen of these sites have fire pits, while the other four do not allow fires. Remember that designated campsites are the only places where camping is allowed. There are no drive-up campsites in the park, and you won't find water or electricity at the campsites.

Mountain Rest, SC 29664, USA

Haley Jackson/Google Maps

• Location: Mountain Rest, South Carolina
• Popularity: Hidden gem.
• Park Info: Open year-round with no charge. A vault toilet and picnic tables are available. Stay is limited to 14 days.
• Price: Free

Burrells Ford Campground has campsites with picnic tables and fire rings for cooking and enjoying the outdoors. With no electricity or water available, it is a great spot to get away from it all.

The highlight of the campground is the quarter-mile walk to the Chattooga River. The river is beautiful and offers a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Additionally, it's easy to hike from the campsites to see the impressive King Creek Falls. The view is breathtaking and worth the hike.

We also find that the Burrells Ford area is a great base camp for exploring the Ellicott Rock Wilderness. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, and the scenery is beautiful. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful and affordable camping experience.

Hopkins, SC 29061, USA

A.C. Antonelli/Google Local

• Location: Hopkins, South Carolina
• Popularity: Hidden gem. Perfect for those looking to camp in the frontcountry yet have a more backcountry experience.
• Park Info: All campers are required to have a reservation to camp.
• Price: $15-$25/night

Did you know that Congaree National Park boasts an incredible amount of biodiversity? It's the largest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States, and the Congaree and Wateree Rivers provide the nutrients and sediments necessary to nourish and rejuvenate this unique ecosystem. As a result, the park is home to some of the largest trees in the country.

If you're planning a visit to Congaree, you might be interested to know that there are two designated campgrounds: Longleaf and Bluff. The latter is located on the Bluff Trail, about a mile away from Longleaf. Keep in mind that there is no vehicle access to this campground, so you'll need to carry your equipment to the site. Bluff has six individual campsites, each of which can hold up to eight people, and three tents. While there are fire rings and picnic tables at each site, there are no restroom facilities or running water available. Plan accordingly!

Whether you’re a waterfall chaser, an oceanfront lover, or all about that family camping fun, South Carolina is the place to camp. So pack up the s’mores supplies, grab your adventure squad, and get ready to make some epic memories in these camping spots of South Carolina!

Do you think these are the best campgrounds in South Carolina? Let us know what you think! And don’t forget to take a look at our outdoor essentials packing list before embarking on your next adventure.