The best luxury RV campgrounds in South Carolina

Rich in Southern heritage and hospitality, South Carolina boasts the good looks to match its personality. Golden beaches and sandy barrier islands dot the Atlantic shore, the forested peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains rise in the north, and lush marshlands fringe the Lowcountry. Outdoor adventurers can explore SC’s seven national parks and 47 state parks all year-round, and camping options are plentiful, whether you choose a drive-in, hike-in, boat-in, or equestrian campsite, or book a camper cabin. Summers in the Palmetto State averages a balmy 90°F, but it’s best to avoid the fall hurricane season if camping on the coast.

98% (709)

Top-rated campgrounds

Rich in Southern heritage and hospitality, South Carolina boasts the good looks to match its personality. Golden beaches and sandy barrier islands dot the Atlantic shore, the forested peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains rise in the north, and lush marshlands fringe the Lowcountry. Outdoor adventurers can explore SC’s seven national parks and 47 state parks all year-round, and camping options are plentiful, whether you choose a drive-in, hike-in, boat-in, or equestrian campsite, or book a camper cabin. Summers in the Palmetto State averages a balmy 90°F, but it’s best to avoid the fall hurricane season if camping on the coast.

98% (709)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Black Pearl Farms

98%

(307)

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Branchville, SC

Pitch your tent on one of our private campsites, or enjoy the comforts of our beautiful guest house. Located across 180 picturesque acres of Black Pearl Farms, a working organic blueberry farm. A half mile of water frontage tucked along the gnarls of the Edisto river, provides serine river views with boating access, fishing, breathtaking sunsets over the orchards, and crystal clear star gazing.

2. Too Many Oaks Plantation

97%

(99)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Swansea, SC

We have 21 acres in the sand hills of Calhoun county just outside Columbia S C. Apply named Too Many Oaks Plantation, a wonderful spot to relax and enjoy time in your hammock reading by day and a roaring bonfire by night, We are planting a small mixed fruit orchard and building a chicken coop and garden to enjoy fresh eggs and whatever is in season. Close to Columbia ( 30 minutes ) for a nice trip to the zoo or a float down the Saluda River with Adventure Carolina. A perfect mix of nice and quite but still close to town. Also just in Synchronous fireflies, which are fireflies that gather and flash their lights at the same time as part of a mating ritual, are expected to light up the Congaree National Park in May. Check with park for details

3. River Island Venture Resort

97%

(35)

25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Longs, SC

We are located just 7 miles from North Myrtle Beach on the Waccamaw River. We have a private 48 acre island with a 2 bedroom Treehouse and SURVIVOR Games plus our 14 acre Outpost that you can drive to with Glamping Tents and primitive campsites. We offer kayak rentals and guided tours, pontoon boat tours, Sunset S'mores with Owl Call and so much more.

4. Dennis & Melissa's Hidden Creek

99%

(185)

12 sites · Tents, RVs · Hartsville, SC

Our 400 acre family cow and pine tree farm most of which was purchased 60 years ago by my father and mother. My two siblings and me were raised here and later bought joining land that now makes up the 400 acres. We all still live on the farm with our families 1.4 mile down a dirt and gravel road. We all enjoy the peace and quiet that you will find here. Sounds of our cows, wildlife and the occasional rumble of a distant train is all you will hear on our farm. Our Hidden Creek is a short fun hike to cool your tired feet. Wide hiking paths all the way around our property if you would like a long hike. Learn more about this land: Enjoy your privacy on our 400 acres of farm and forest trails. 10 minutes from groceries and gas, 15 minutes from a small town. We are surrounded by farmland and forest. There are a few different attractions 5 - 10 minutes away (lake Robinson) it has a boat landing and plenty of fish, (Carolina Sandhills national wildlife refuge)it has plenty of hiking trails and roads perfect for bicycling, small mountain called (Sugarloaf Mountain)perfect for hiking. Local peach/strawberry farm (McLeod farm) with produce/gift shop/free museum/restaurant called (Big's), they have pick your own strawberries in the spring and early summer. In nearby Hartsville and Cheraw there are several golf courses and places for Kayak rentals. Neptune Island waterpark in Hartsville. We have a hidden Creek that is fun to hike to by way of a trail. Small pond for fishing, plenty of room for hiking and bike riding ( grassy, sandy, rolling hills). Beautiful hills to camp on and watch an unobstructed view of the Carolina sunset and sunrise that peak through wooded acreage. Choose a tent camp location or pull/drive your RV/camper right near our cow pasture and watch the cows graze. Fresh drinking water at campsites. Bathroom and heated shower. Pick wild blackberries in early summer and wild grapes in late summer early fall, and we may share some of our home made jellies with you. We welcome family groups year round. At night enjoy the sounds of wildlife while watching the highly visible twinkling stars and tracing the many constellations and if lucky see a shooting star or two.

5. Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

97%

(177)

12 sites · Tents, RVs · Saluda, SC

Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC is a private lodging establishment offering short term sites to campers, transient guest and outdoor enthusiast who desire rest, relaxation and recreation. The fringe land is old farm land now being repurposed for outdoor activities. The RV Park is the developed part of an old Farm planted in pines bordering Big Creek/Lake Murray.

6. Spacious Skies Peach Haven Campground

96%

(28)

128 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gaffney, SC

Spacious Skies Peach Haven is your sweet retreat located right in South Carolina Upcountry and mere minutes from the beloved Gaffney Peachoid, nestled among picturesque farmland and rolling green hills. Our campground offers full hook-up RV sites as well as water and electric only sites. We are big rig friendly with modern hookups and have an array of pristine paved sites that include a stone fire ring, grill, and dining table with chairs. If shaded sites are your preference, we have sites tucked into a piney grove too! We also have cabins that are available in a variety of sizes and with differing amenities, ensuring we have the perfect spot that meets each family or group’s needs. Enjoy the peaceful, bucolic surroundings by hiking the nearby trails or fishing in one of our ponds. If you are looking for more action, there is plenty of fun to be had with a pool, mini golf course, jumping pillow, rec hall, and more to explore! We didn’t forget your furry friends either. Our cabins are all pet-friendly and two dog parks allow your pup to have some fun areas to play and burn off some energy. A well-stocked camp store, 24-hour laundry facility, and WiFi provide some of the comforts of home while you embrace the great outdoors. If you’re looking to use your site as a home base while you explore the area, Gaffney and nearby Spartanburg South Carolina offer plenty of destinations, and our campground is conveniently located just minutes off I-85. From historical sites to local art and nature attractions, there is so much to experience while you’re here that nearly all of our campers book their next visit right away!

7. Laurel Oaks Estate

100%

(79)

6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Conway, SC

We are 20 miles from Myrtle Beach, and just a short drive to beautiful downtown Conway, SC. There you will find shopping, amazing restaurants, and the Riverwalk. Alongside the tent is a fire pit, hammock, cornhole, picnic table, and gas grill. Take a stroll on one of our many trails that backs up to the National Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy fishing and take a ride in the paddleboat, johnboat, and kayaks on our pond near your campsite.

8. Lakewood Camping Resort

100%

(8)

191 sites · Tents, RVs · Myrtle Beach, SC

Lakewood is a massive oceanfront playground for families. We are almost three hundred acres of family fun, with a half mile of beach, a full sized water park, two pools, a mini-golf course, nearly a dozen sports venues, bikes, pedal boats, kayaks, canoes, and the best atmosphere for celebrating Camping Culture you’ve ever experienced! Lakewood stretches along a full half mile of beach. That’s more sand between your toes than any other resort on the Grand Strand! Lakewood was the first to install its very own Water Park! Here, we have our olympic-sized pool, our giant water park slides and lazy river, our kiddie pool, our kid’s water park, live bands, deck space for you to catch some rays and even private pool-side Cabanas. We also have an indoor pool with a jacuzzi, and even a sun tanning deck! Myrtle Beach is the Mini Golf capital of the world but you don’t need to venture outside of the resort to play! We have our own 18-hole putt-putt course, River Town Golf! And right off of River Town’s docks you can launch into one of our many lakes on a pedal boat, a canoe, or a kayak! Or, right out front, grab yourself a bike and explore our almost three hundred acres! We also have oceanside basketball courts, pickleball and volleyball courts; as well as a beachfront playground, a disc golf oasis and a manicured cornhole pavilion. And you’ll never go hungry or thirsty with our Beach Bum Coffee House, Trading Post Snack Bar, The Crazy Mason Express & The Chicken Joint and our oceanside food truck options. Now, these are only some of the amazing things there are to do around Lakewood. We hope you’ll explore, meet people, stumble into incredible experiences, and let yourself be nature’s guest, at the resort that’s been changing the way you camp, since 1959.

9. Savannah Lakes RV Resort

92%

(12)

232 sites · RVs, Lodging · Hardeeville, SC

Savannah Lakes RV Resort is a luxurious camping destination in Hardeeville, SC that echoes every sense of nature. Designed with leisure in mind and created with meticulous attention to detail, it exudes the genuine aura of the Lowcountry. We aim to give guests the best of both worlds: the pleasures of a peaceful retreat and the abundance of on-site activities and wildlife attractions. Reserve your spot at this eco-friendly campground today, just a short drive from Jasper Highway. Savannah Lakes RV Resort is a glimpse of heaven on earth. It brims with never-ending greenery sights, giving you a relaxing getaway that brings you closer to the calm and quiet of nature. The campground embodies the Lowcountry’s authentic spirit, overflowing with cultural and historical richness.

10. Camp at The Farm - Outside Inn

99%

(37)

2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Santee, SC

We are a family campground with a focus on keeping things natural. Enjoy an afternoon with the farm animals, a stroll through the woods, star gazing at night and fellowship with friends. Our campground hosts outdoor movies under the stars (see events for dates & times) as well as farm tours and snuggles sessions with the animals.

11. The Point At Lake Hartwell

100%

(1)

30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Townville, SC

12. Eden in Lancaster, SC

100%

(3)

3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Irwin, SC

Eden is a unique campground. We have two glamping campers (one sleeps 6) (one sleeps a couple and small child) both are fully stocked with EVERYTHING you will need for a relaxing time! For those who like to tent camp, we have a very large tree canopied site with an outhouse style restroom steps away from your site, or you can bring your own camper using a 30 amp hookup and water. Eden also has a 5 acre wooded nature trail with seating that deer like to frequent on the way to the creek. While your here we have fresh eggs, a large variety of produce avaliable seasonally, and an herb garden for the cooks in the group. Locally there are tons of farms, lakes, parks, amazing eateries. You can visit our facebook page and view our guidebook for lots of local suggestions. When it isn't freezing outside there are tons of amenities right here at the camper! We have wifi, bluetooth speakers, projector for movie night cornhole boards, darts, soccer goals, glow sticks, board games and much more!

13. Huge 5th Wheel Lowndesville USA

100%

(1)

3 sites · RVs, Lodging · Lowndesville, SC

Nestled in the heart of Lowdesville, SC, this RV is perfect for the large group of adventurers, hunters and fishermen. Mega RV sleeps 9 people looking for great fishing and hunting spots near 2 different lakes. Hunting clubs nearby. Fishing guides take you out to Lake Russell and Succession for crappie fishing all season long. RV is located behind the local Country Store and Cafe. Guests enjoy 10% off meals during your stay. Master bedroom includes chest, closet and mounted TV. Full bathroom beside with door for entry and another for guests. Kitchen dining and living area with mounted TV. Gas stove and oven with microwave. Toaster and coffee pot available. Living room sleeper sofa pulls out for extra bed. 4- seat dining room table. Large bunkhouse room with 4 beds for large groups. 2nd full bath off the bunkhouse for plenty of privacy. WiFi available for guests and for included electronics. Please sign out of your apps! Outdoor kitchen available for fish fries! Local ball field and walking trail is .25 mile away. Jim Rampy Recreation Center and boat ramp is only 1 mile away. No boat...fish right off the pier !

Camper favorites in South Carolina

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Laurel Oaks Estate

100%

(79)

6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Conway, SC

We are 20 miles from Myrtle Beach, and just a short drive to beautiful downtown Conway, SC. There you will find shopping, amazing restaurants, and the Riverwalk. Alongside the tent is a fire pit, hammock, cornhole, picnic table, and gas grill. Take a stroll on one of our many trails that backs up to the National Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy fishing and take a ride in the paddleboat, johnboat, and kayaks on our pond near your campsite.

Lakewood Camping Resort

100%

(8)

191 sites · Tents, RVs · Myrtle Beach, SC

Lakewood is a massive oceanfront playground for families. We are almost three hundred acres of family fun, with a half mile of beach, a full sized water park, two pools, a mini-golf course, nearly a dozen sports venues, bikes, pedal boats, kayaks, canoes, and the best atmosphere for celebrating Camping Culture you’ve ever experienced! Lakewood stretches along a full half mile of beach. That’s more sand between your toes than any other resort on the Grand Strand! Lakewood was the first to install its very own Water Park! Here, we have our olympic-sized pool, our giant water park slides and lazy river, our kiddie pool, our kid’s water park, live bands, deck space for you to catch some rays and even private pool-side Cabanas. We also have an indoor pool with a jacuzzi, and even a sun tanning deck! Myrtle Beach is the Mini Golf capital of the world but you don’t need to venture outside of the resort to play! We have our own 18-hole putt-putt course, River Town Golf! And right off of River Town’s docks you can launch into one of our many lakes on a pedal boat, a canoe, or a kayak! Or, right out front, grab yourself a bike and explore our almost three hundred acres! We also have oceanside basketball courts, pickleball and volleyball courts; as well as a beachfront playground, a disc golf oasis and a manicured cornhole pavilion. And you’ll never go hungry or thirsty with our Beach Bum Coffee House, Trading Post Snack Bar, The Crazy Mason Express & The Chicken Joint and our oceanside food truck options. Now, these are only some of the amazing things there are to do around Lakewood. We hope you’ll explore, meet people, stumble into incredible experiences, and let yourself be nature’s guest, at the resort that’s been changing the way you camp, since 1959.

Savannah Lakes RV Resort

92%

(12)

232 sites · RVs, Lodging · Hardeeville, SC

Savannah Lakes RV Resort is a luxurious camping destination in Hardeeville, SC that echoes every sense of nature. Designed with leisure in mind and created with meticulous attention to detail, it exudes the genuine aura of the Lowcountry. We aim to give guests the best of both worlds: the pleasures of a peaceful retreat and the abundance of on-site activities and wildlife attractions. Reserve your spot at this eco-friendly campground today, just a short drive from Jasper Highway. Savannah Lakes RV Resort is a glimpse of heaven on earth. It brims with never-ending greenery sights, giving you a relaxing getaway that brings you closer to the calm and quiet of nature. The campground embodies the Lowcountry’s authentic spirit, overflowing with cultural and historical richness.

Camp at The Farm - Outside Inn

99%

(37)

2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Santee, SC

We are a family campground with a focus on keeping things natural. Enjoy an afternoon with the farm animals, a stroll through the woods, star gazing at night and fellowship with friends. Our campground hosts outdoor movies under the stars (see events for dates & times) as well as farm tours and snuggles sessions with the animals.

The Point At Lake Hartwell

100%

(1)

30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Townville, SC

Eden in Lancaster, SC

100%

(3)

3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Irwin, SC

Eden is a unique campground. We have two glamping campers (one sleeps 6) (one sleeps a couple and small child) both are fully stocked with EVERYTHING you will need for a relaxing time! For those who like to tent camp, we have a very large tree canopied site with an outhouse style restroom steps away from your site, or you can bring your own camper using a 30 amp hookup and water. Eden also has a 5 acre wooded nature trail with seating that deer like to frequent on the way to the creek. While your here we have fresh eggs, a large variety of produce avaliable seasonally, and an herb garden for the cooks in the group. Locally there are tons of farms, lakes, parks, amazing eateries. You can visit our facebook page and view our guidebook for lots of local suggestions. When it isn't freezing outside there are tons of amenities right here at the camper! We have wifi, bluetooth speakers, projector for movie night cornhole boards, darts, soccer goals, glow sticks, board games and much more!

Huge 5th Wheel Lowndesville USA

100%

(1)

3 sites · RVs, Lodging · Lowndesville, SC

Nestled in the heart of Lowdesville, SC, this RV is perfect for the large group of adventurers, hunters and fishermen. Mega RV sleeps 9 people looking for great fishing and hunting spots near 2 different lakes. Hunting clubs nearby. Fishing guides take you out to Lake Russell and Succession for crappie fishing all season long. RV is located behind the local Country Store and Cafe. Guests enjoy 10% off meals during your stay. Master bedroom includes chest, closet and mounted TV. Full bathroom beside with door for entry and another for guests. Kitchen dining and living area with mounted TV. Gas stove and oven with microwave. Toaster and coffee pot available. Living room sleeper sofa pulls out for extra bed. 4- seat dining room table. Large bunkhouse room with 4 beds for large groups. 2nd full bath off the bunkhouse for plenty of privacy. WiFi available for guests and for included electronics. Please sign out of your apps! Outdoor kitchen available for fish fries! Local ball field and walking trail is .25 mile away. Jim Rampy Recreation Center and boat ramp is only 1 mile away. No boat...fish right off the pier !

Stories from the community

R

Rick

1 week ago

28 ft travel trailer

10 nights at Dennis & Melissa's Hidden Creek

Awesome spot definitely recommend! Melissa and Dennis are very kind and very welcoming people! Can’t wait till I’m back in this area again

S

Sue

2 weeks ago

24 ft campervan

2 nights at River Island Venture Resort

It’s our first time using this app to book our camping, Great spot! So quiet and peaceful! Loved our stay!👍👍👍

H

Hunter

2 weeks ago

22 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

Was the perfect camp site. Everything we needed. Hookups were great. Public restrooms were clean and super nice. Would stay again.

S

Susan

2 weeks ago

25 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Dennis & Melissa's Hidden Creek

Beautiful spot, super nice people. Will be back. They were so helpful.

Andria

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Too Many Oaks Plantation

I LOVED the lights in the trees and the use of the shower and kitchen in the house! Beautiful property with walking trails and the host was very communicative and made us feel welcomed. Sites are well spaced and nicely kept.

B

Bianca

2 weeks ago

30 ft Class C

With kids

2 nights at Black Pearl Farms

A gorgeous, quiet and open space spot. Definitely recommend.

M

Michael

3 weeks ago

18 ft travel trailer

6 nights at Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

We had a very large site, and it was quiet. It was so relaxing. Mr. James was a great host. Awsome fishing in the creek beside the campground. We will be returning soon.

R

Ryan

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Island Venture Resort

Had a great time tent camping at River Island Adventure! My dog and I were greeted and shown to our site by Jeff and his staff. The toilets and showers are a nice option at the outpost. Looking forward to when paddle board weather comes back to visit again and take advantage of the river access!

Kayla

3 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

We stayed a 2 nights and it was amazing! We had the best time! Everyone was super sweet and we are definitely going to be back. Thank you for having such an amazing campsite

t

tiffany

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

4 nights at River Island Venture Resort

Jeff’s place is a treasure. South Carolina is lucky to have it! The campsites are immaculate, their shared space is beautiful and so thoughtfully created; we enjoyed the showers and outdoor kitchen. On-site staff are a joy to be around and the landscape is zen paradise. Right by the river, tucked in the woods, 15 minutes from the beach; this is the place to be. We feel lucky to have experienced the magic!

R

Raymond

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Black Pearl Farms

Beautiful riverside camping we will be staying again

Jessica

November 2025

14 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Dennis & Melissa's Hidden Creek

This is such a gem of a "campground". Very beautiful land and such thoughtful hosts. The amenities are amazing!!! Thank you!

Annie

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Too Many Oaks Plantation

It was a great experience. My dog lived being off leash in the trails of the woods on the property. Thank you Michael!

L

Linda

November 2025

25 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Laurel Oaks Estate

The location was excellent. The amenities were excellent. We enjoyed the fire pit. We would highly recommend Laurel Oaks Estates.

Allison

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Too Many Oaks Plantation

This was the perfect place to stop on our trip. Our children absolutely loved your property — especially the swing with the lights and the axe-throwing area, which was a huge hit! We also really appreciated your generosity in letting us use your bathroom and kitchen — that meant a lot after a long day on the road. It was such a pleasure meeting you and getting to chat for a bit.

I

Ian

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Island Venture Resort

Dude was very nice super sociable. Super laid back place. Chill fire spots and what not. Beautiful nature for the most part. Nice creeks. I just really liked the atmosphere and the fact that there were showers, toilets, microwave, multiple grills. A communal fridge. All of that made it super pleasant and felt very over the top friendly which I love. Great place. Nice people Would recommend.

Dale

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Too Many Oaks Plantation

We had an awesome time. There was plenty of fire wood cut to collect and the camping spots were well maintained. Made it really easy to just pull up unload and set up. Definitely will be planning another stay!

D

Danielle

October 2025

5 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Camp at The Farm - Outside Inn

I was the only one there camping in a tent. I felt very comfortable and safe and it was nice to have an outlet to charge my laptop. I had an amazing stay while I was there. The staff was so nice and helpful.. The farm was in beautiful condition. The animals looked happy and I loved waking up to the roosters Crow in the morning. The hiking trails were a pleasant surprise to have. They’re very well maintained. The bathroom was clean and very pretty. I got the bottle feed the baby goats in the morning and that was so much fun. They were so cute. There is a Dollar General right down the road if you need anything. I will be back I highly recommend..

Mimi

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Too Many Oaks Plantation

Michael is such a kind and generous host! The cabin is a hoot and has everything you could need (including serious hot water). I felt quite safe and very comfortable.

C

Christine

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Spacious Skies Peach Haven Campground

Lovely place to camp. Beautiful large trees give plenty of shade and a sense of privacy.

Other options in South Carolina

Sun Outdoors Myrtle Beach

590 sites · RVs, Lodging · Conway, SC

Enjoy a splash of Southern charm at Sun Outdoors Myrtle Beach — where relaxation and outdoor adventures await. Discover a refreshing vacation resort experience in the shadows of our majestic Loblolly pine trees. Park your RV in one of our spacious RV sites or stay in one of our cottage rentals and enjoy incredible resort-style amenities for the ultimate Myrtle Beach getaway. Ride the 3-story tall water slides at Carolina Splash Water Park. Putt a round of miniature golf, play games in the Red Fox Arcade, or find your serenity at our adults-only pool. Sample local flavors poolside at the Lowcountry Landing Bistro, sip cool drinks in a private cabana, or relax in our meandering lazy river. Sun Outdoors Myrtle Beach is the place for that perfect family vacation that you'll remember for years to come.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best luxury RV camping in South Carolina guide

Where to go

Pee Dee and the Grand Strand

The Pee Dee River runs all the way from the Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina to Georgetown on the Atlantic Coast. This northeastern slice of South Carolina is best known for its Grand Strand beaches, whether camping at the hugely popular Myrtle Beach resorts, bird-watching at Huntington Beach State Park, or teeing off at one of the many coastal golf courses.

Lowcountry

Hemmed in by the Savannah River and the Atlantic Coast, the southwestern lowlands are an idyllic stretch of marshlands, barrier islands, and coastal towns. Hunting Island State Park is the state’s most visited park, and a paradise for bird-watchers and campers, while RV parks dot the beaches of Hilton Head Island. The palmetto-fringed beaches of Edisto Beach State Park are a favorite for summer campers, and James Island County Park, just outside Charleston, is a crabbing hotspot.

Midlands

The state capital Columbia dominates the rolling hills of South Carolina’s Midlands, and the region’s highlights all lie within easy reach. Family campgrounds dot the shores of nearby Lake Murray, Sesquicentennial State Park has a woodland campsite and boating lake, and part of the 500-mile Palmetto Trail passes through Poinsett State Park. Nearby, Congaree National Park has hiking and kayaking trails, two campgrounds, and backcountry camping.

Upcountry

The Blue Ridge Mountains tumble down over the border from North Carolina, and South Carolina’s mountainous north is a natural playground of forested valleys, lakes, and waterfalls. Greenville is the starting point for exploring the north, from where you can hike the 3,533-foot summit of Sassafras Mountain, the state’s highest peak; camp amid the mountains in Table Rock State Park; or explore the multi-use trails at Paris Mountain State Park. For backcountry camping, it doesn’t get much better than the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, which links the Jones Gap and Caesars Head state parks.