Camping, in our opinion, is the best pastime ever invented. You get away from the house, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and breathe crisp, clean, beautiful air far from the congestion of the city. You also have the chance to catch your own dinner, have late-night marshmallow roasts, tell scary stories, and so much more! Here are 10 places for the best camping in South Carolina that you must try out. Consider it your outdoor bucket list!
1. Calhoun Falls State Park, Calhoun Falls
First up on our list of some of the best camping in South Carolina is none other than Calhoun Falls State Park. On a camping trip here you will be able to enjoy fishing for crappie, bass, bream, catfish, and much more. There is a fishing pier that is handicap accessible so it's open to everyone. They also have a playground, swimming, picnic shelters, tennis courts, walking trails, and equestrian trails too!
2. Devils Fork State Park, Salem
Camping at Devils Fork State Park will give you access to some beautiful views of Lake Jocassee and the surrounding mountains. There is fishing, hiking, boating, kayaking, bath houses, picnic areas, a playground, and so much more. They even have WIFI in some areas! But, the real thrill is the hiking and photography. Plus, there are beautiful waterfalls to discover at this South Carolina state park.
3. Keowee-Toxaway State Park, Sunset
The camping site at Keowee-Toxaway State Park will give you the most amazing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains as well as the Jocassee Gorges. And, if primitive camping is not your cup of tea there is also a cabin with a private boat dock. You can go fishing, jet-skiing, kayaking, bird watching, hiking trails, walking/nature trails, biking, and swimming.
4. Dreher Island State Park, Prosperity
There are endless adventures to be had at Dreher Island State Park. While camping is an obvious choice, scuba diving can be done here! As well as fishing, of course. WIFI is available at the Visitor's Center. There are picnic shelters and opportunities for bird watching. Here you can see purple martins in the fall.
5. Edisto Beach State Park, Edisto Island
Edisto Beach State Park is undoubtedly one of the state's most beloved treasures. This place is riddled with Native American history so it's not only a very relaxing place, but also a very educational place. There is a playground, hiking/nature trails, swimming, and geocaching. If you follow the Spanish Mount Trail along Scott's Creek you will find the second oldest Native American Pottery site. This large shell mound dates back to 2,000 BC! But, please do not disturb it so that future generations can admire it as well.
6. Oconee State Park, Mountain Rest
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Oconee State Park is a very popular camping spot. There are 2 lakes on which to fish, kayak, and swim. They also feature hiking for the beginner, intermediate, and the experienced. Learn more about why Oconee State Park is considered one of the best state parks in South Carolina.
7. Lake Greenwood State Park, Ninety-Six
Lake Greenwood State Park is is another great fishing spot and brings in a lot of fishermen who hook bass, crappie, bream, perch, catfish, and more! There is a playground for the little ones, picnic shelters, and birdwatching.
8. Hickory Knob State Park, McCormick
Hickory Knob State Park is absolutely lovely! This campground in South Carolina offers 1 and 2-bedroom cabins for rent as well as a 3-bedroom house with all the modern luxury of home. There is fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming. Additionally, this park features, archery, skeet shooting, and tennis courts. It's like home away from home!
9. Cheraw State Park, Cheraw
Cheraw State Park is your average campsite! This is for the golfer who doesn't want to stop while camping or wants to do it in a very relaxed atmosphere. Of course, there is boating, fishing, and swimming. They have a volleyball, badminton, and horseshoe grounds too!
10. Lake Wateree State Park, Winnsboro
Lake Wateree State Park is a fisherman's paradise. Fishing is a big thing here. They have fishing tournaments here year around! The park has places for tents and RVs so, don't feel like you have to be in a tent. There is a playground, swimming, bird watching, and short nature trails.
With so much fun waiting at your fingertips, why are you still sitting at home? The great thing about camping is that it's a vacation without the huge drain on your wallet, which is really nice these days. So, pick any one of the above sites for the best camping in South Carolina and go for it! Even if it is just a weekend, you will be amazed at how energized you will be.
Looking for related content? Check out these awesome yurts in South Carolina for a weekend of glamping!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!