The best family-friendly glamping near Clemson, South Carolina

This college town on Lake Hartwell brings youthful spirit to the great outdoors. Home to Clemson University, the town has a small but busy downtown, parks, and waterfall hikes. The Chattahoochee National Forest is nearby, just over the South Carolina border. Campgrounds dot this eastern section of the lake, including in the nearby towns of Pendleton and Anderson. The US Corps of Engineers maintains several camps, including Twin Lakes and Springfield, plus Oconee Point and Coneross Campground across the lake. All offer RV sites and tent camping. Saddlers Creek State Park is the most popular lakeside camping area, with a fishing pier and waterfront sites. Clemson also has private campgrounds and RV parks, including options for cabins. Lake Hartwell is excellent for fishing striped bass. Rent a boat at the Clemson Marina, or launch your own at Twelve Mile Recreation Area, which has a boat ramp and picnic area. Many locals prefer Lake Jocassee for a swim. The lake is located about an hour north and has clear waters that stay cool year-round.

97% (1.1K) • 23 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Clemson

This college town on Lake Hartwell brings youthful spirit to the great outdoors. Home to Clemson University, the town has a small but busy downtown, parks, and waterfall hikes. The Chattahoochee National Forest is nearby, just over the South Carolina border. Campgrounds dot this eastern section of the lake, including in the nearby towns of Pendleton and Anderson. The US Corps of Engineers maintains several camps, including Twin Lakes and Springfield, plus Oconee Point and Coneross Campground across the lake. All offer RV sites and tent camping. Saddlers Creek State Park is the most popular lakeside camping area, with a fishing pier and waterfront sites. Clemson also has private campgrounds and RV parks, including options for cabins. Lake Hartwell is excellent for fishing striped bass. Rent a boat at the Clemson Marina, or launch your own at Twelve Mile Recreation Area, which has a boat ramp and picnic area. Many locals prefer Lake Jocassee for a swim. The lake is located about an hour north and has clear waters that stay cool year-round.

97% (1.1K) • 23 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Clemson

1. Cold Spring Basecamp

97%

(177)

41mi from Clemson · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging

Cold Spring Basecamp is the perfect spot to launch your adventure. Located in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Whether camping, glamping or high in a treehouse, Cold Spring Basecamp is the jumping off point for biking, hiking, paddling, zip lining, waterfalls or just enjoy our beautiful 38 acre property with mountain bike trails, hiking trails, beautiful creeks, waterfalls and endless relaxation potential. Three rustic and historic cabins recently rehabbed, but keeping all the old charm. One open wall lets in lots of light and the old wood accents the walls, kitchen, eating area, and bunk beds (with queen on the bottom and twin up top). Cook over the stone fire pit or on cast iron pots and pan on the propane stove. Full equipped kitchen for all your needs, including French press, and tea pot. Relax under the solar lights and charge your devices using our solar powered charging station. Campsites are all nestled in the woods and next to the creek and are all spacious and private. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring with grill for cooking over the fire. Additionally a water filter is provided for purifying drinking water from the creek. Launch your adventure from Cold Spring or stay on the property to enjoy the mountain bike trails, hike to the waterfall and cliffs or relax in the meadow. Minutes to the world class trails of Ride Rock Creek Bike Park and beautiful Lake Summit, just down the road from Ride Kanuga Bike Park and the world famous Green River, with class I-V rapids. We are at the back door of 86 miles of trails and dozens of famous waterfalls in Dupont State Forest. The steep, fast and fun Gorge Zipline is located in the quaint town of Saluda, along with shops and great restaurants. The shops and restaurants of Flat Rock and just up the hill and a bit further is the thriving town on Hendersonville, apple country and many of the areas wineries.

2. At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

95%

(184)

38mi from Clemson · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to At the Ridge Camp – “Simple Mountain Camping” at Its Best. Nestled just seven miles from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, At the Ridge Camp offers a peaceful escape in the heart of North Carolina’s stunning Pisgah National Forest—also known as the Land of the Waterfalls. We offer 7 cozy camping cabins, 14 spacious tent/RV sites, and two convenient bathhouses to make your stay comfortable. Whether you're here to hike to breathtaking waterfalls, cast a line in a quiet stream, or simply unwind by the campfire under the stars, this is your place to reconnect with nature. And one of our favorite pastimes? Just sitting back and watching the water flow by. Come enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains—without breaking the bank.

3. Mountain View Acres

98%

(226)

49mi from Clemson · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Make some memories at this unique and family-friendly place. Completely remodeled January of 2022. Our cabin sits on 20 acres with beautiful mountain views. Away from the hustle and bustle, but only 30 minutes to Asheville, and close to shopping, restaurants, hiking, rafting, waterfalls, and much, much more! Enjoy getting away as a couple, or with the kids. Just steps away from our game room with pool, ping pong, foos ball, air hockey, darts, and exercise room. Come pet the animals! This 1 room cabin includes 1 King bed, pullout queen sofa, large comfy chair, dining table for 4, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, grill, picnic table, fire pit, cooking essentials, towels, and linens. This cabin is next to a bathhouse. There is a mens and womens restroom. Both restrooms are equipped with 6 showers, 4 stalls, and 8 sinks. You will have complete access to restrooms and showers. You will also have access to the gameroom and exercise room. Across from the cabin is a large pasture and our animals.

4. Trails & Tails Waterfalls Retreat

100%

(81)

44mi from Clemson · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Beautifully landscaped grounds of this once tobacco farm then 30 year nursery, offer a peaceful setting to follow your days on the trails. Enjoy the indoor/outdoor plant filled greenhouse set up with lights and tables, dip your toes in the creek and watch your dog(s) get their zoomies out in the large dog run or just sit back and relax. Perfectly situated just 3 miles to the entrance of Pisgah Forest, 25 minutes to DuPont, five minutes to downtown Brevard, fifteen from Ashville airport and 30 minutes to downtown Asheville . *****No arrivals after 10:00pm. We're available to answer questions and provide assistance between the hours of 7:00am-10:00pm Circle the driveway until you see a bridge to a field. Chose anywhere not close to other campers. Area withing about 20' of bridge can get muddy. ** Overall length of more than 50' will not be able to make the turns on the property. ie. if your tow behind is 30' and truck is 22' you will will not be able to make the turns

5. 3 Creeks Camp and Nature Preserve

96%

(250)

21mi from Clemson · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This Property was purchased by Grandfather in the 70s  and then was passed to my Mother. In 2013 I decided to live life differently and start from the ground up building with natural materials and found materials. At that time I was fortunate enough to have the land passed to me and I started building a home for myself and to be close to my mothers home nearby. After achieving the basics I decided that the best use of this beautiful land was to create a place for people to relax and enjoy, a park like environment dedicated to preserving natural beauty and amplifying it through a permaculture lifestyle. 8 years later I am blown away at how far the dream has become a reality and love sharing my space with people from all over the country.

6. Peace Of Pisgah

94%

(73)

43mi from Clemson · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Come camp in "Peace of Pisgah" just 5 minutes to the entrance of Pisgah Forest! Our 4-site campground is heavily wooded in a mixed forest and a pristine creek. Please note: We are directly off a highway so traffic can be heard but is not visible from the campground which is surrounded by a wall of rhododendron.

7. Mountaintop Fantasy

98%

(236)

40mi from Clemson · 4 sites · Lodging

FALL/WINTER SPCIAL: 40% off weeknights. NEW FOR 2025: Glenville High Treehouse and landscaped Overlook Selected by Outside Magazine as their Favorite Hipcamp in North Carolina and a Hipcamp Finalist in N.C. 2020, 2021, and 2022 and runner up best Treehouse 2023, the Glenville High Treehouse ( the "Treehouse" ) and the Overlook await you in 4 acres. The two sites are directly across our driveway from each other. The Treehouse affords covered interior sleeping for 6 ( combination adults an kids ), a W/C and shower, WiFi, TV, all necessary cooking and dining equipment, water equipment and room to pitch a tent if desired. The Overlook site is landscaped,shared and offers a covered overlook, various out door dining and lounging tables, large outdoor stone fireplace and water and fishing equipment shared only with us. PLUS free access to the community dock and our canoes and kayak. Playground for the kids including trampoline. Explore the innumerable trails and waterfalls of the Smokies; swim, canoe, kayak and fish in the Lake or numerous rivers and streams; swim at the sand beach down the road; rent a pontoon boat; enjoy the numerous nearby waterfalls; travel the Blue Ridge Parkway; enjoy the shopping and restaurants of nearby Cashiers and Highlands. Or just hang out. This area is truly one of a kind spiritual respite far from the madding world.

8. ᕼIᗪᗪEᑎ ᗩᑕᖇEᔕ ᗰOᑌᑎTᗩIᑎ ᑕᗩᗰᑭIᑎG

99%

(59)

37mi from Clemson · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Find a calmer space to get away from the busy, loud, and hectic environments of life where you can relax and unwind & find tranquility in nature. Our 12 acre property borders the Pisgah National Forest. Enjoy serenity in the woods surrounded by an abundance of wildlife, crisp meadows, a sparkling cool stream and fresh mountain air, all while retreating in your cozy and private camping area. Bathhouse with hot showers, shampoo, conditioner & body wash. WiFi. Located in the heart of the Pisgah National and Nantahala Forests, the Balsam Grove community is known for its secluded trails & waterfalls. There are a plethora of activities to do in the nearby surrounding area. Explore in adventures like hiking, cycling, mountain biking, canoeing, tubing, fly-fishing & kayaking. Transylvania county is also known as “The Land of Waterfalls”, where you’ll find over 250 spectacular cascades & cataracts. Just 9 miles away, take in a day of scenic beauty up to the Blue Ridge Parkway. You’ll discover amazing long-range views of the Appalachian Mountain Range, stunning waterfalls, fields of wildflowers & trails, over-looks & elevations that reach more than 5,000 feet. Depending on the time of year you are visiting, you can catch a floral show as the seasons change. Afternoon picnics and sunsets on the Parkway are highly recommended as well as star gazing on a clear night is indubitably hypnotizing & will leave you awestruck!! A few nearby waterfalls under a 15 minute drive from campsite: 3.7 mi- Living Waters. Three easy waterfalls all within a short walk. French Broad Falls, Mill Shoals Falls, & Bird Rock Falls. 7.5 mi- Courthouse Falls. 45 ft. waterfall that plunges into a deep pool. Perfect spot for a dip on a hot summer’s afternoon. Ten minute fairly easy hike from trailhead. 7.7 mi- Paradise Falls Trailhead. One of the best secret swimming holes! A magnificent oasis. Challenging & steep hike, but worth it. 11 mi- Upper Dill Falls & Lower Dill Falls. 50 ft. Waterfall (lower) with just a short easy hike. Upper Dill falls is beautiful and tucked into a lush cove. 7.9 mi- Wolf Creek Lake. Better known to the locals as Wolf Lake, this 183 acre high elevation lake offers spectacular scenery & great swimming, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding.

9. Back Yard Campground

94%

(51)

40mi from Clemson · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Hello, we are Scott and Lynn. We hope you Enjoy your stay with us in our Back Yard Campground! We started the campground in 2016 after friends of the family pitched their tents down along the creek. They shared their enjoyment with us, and we realized how much we enjoyed knowing they were down there camping. We both have a great appreciation for God's creation and decided to open our gates to you. Lynn is a true Blue Ridge native and we both hope you enjoy the proximity to our towns, the mountains, rivers, streams, and waterfalls. The local apple orchards are also amazing! Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and rafting are only a few of the activities available within a short drive. So, soak it all in, come back home to Back Yard Campground, watch the sunset and enjoy sweet dreams.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

John

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Cold Spring Basecamp

Beautiful property and surrounding mountains. The open air cabin had everything I needed and then some! Plenty of awesome climbing and beautiful waterfalls close by. I will definitely stay here the next time I'm in the area thanks Hartwell!

A

3 weeks ago

2 nights at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

I love the camp site! The host was incredibly accommodating and genuinely kind and pleasant!

We added an additional canvas top to keep you completely dry and sheltered. This site is totally private among the rhododendrons and has a creek you can hear while sleeping.

H

Heidi

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Peace Of Pisgah

5 stars! Vicki is an amazing host and very attentive. She went out of her way to make sure my pup and I were comfortable and warm during the colder nights. The property is stunning set within the rhododendrons. Such a cool spot, not to miss! We’ll be back this Summer!

D

Denise

November 2025

3 nights at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

I loved the small cabin #1 on Carrie and Tom's land. It was the perfect amount of space for two people. Tom was super friendly and made his rounds everyday to make sure we had everything we needed. The river was so close we could walk right down and fish. The grounds were well kept, clean and always kept warm in 20 degree low temps with plenty of heaters and an extra blanket to hang over our door for extra warmth. We will be coming back in the spring and summer and bringing friends for sure to enjoy with us! A+++++

C

November 2025

Group trip

3 nights at Mountaintop Fantasy

I really enjoyed spending time with my adult family away from the stresses of the holiday season. We spent daylight visiting Waterfalls, museums and dining. We bonded by the outdoor bonfire at night, and we shared family reflections and laughter in the one-room cabin. As a family that enjoys spending time together, this trip was magical.

L

Lyda

November 2025

With pets

5 nights at Peace Of Pisgah

We had a wonderful time. The hosts were very accommodating. We'll definitely be back soon.

Bedtime is nice with the solar lights inside and out (can be turned off if desired)

W

Wolf

November 2025

2 nights at Cold Spring Basecamp

I was looking for a place to disconnect and do a little writing and couple of days at Bill's Cabin did the trick. If you don't mind limited electricity and cell service as well as fetching your water from a spring, this rustic cabin is the perfect place to escape and enjoy some downtime. Hartwell was extremely accommodating and with a good sleeping bag, it was plenty warm in late November. Highly recommend!

Best fire pit around, surrounded by creek, ferns and woods

T

Tiffany

November 2025

2 nights at Cold Spring Basecamp

This was my second time staying here, and it was, once again, a great experience! The cabin provides just the right amount of amenities and feels very private. It's the perfect setting to relax and connect with nature!

R

Rachel

November 2025

1 night at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

I loved camping here! It was quiet, peaceful, and cozy. Just the getaway I needed! 😊

D

DEBORAH

November 2025

2 nights at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

Had a great time in cabin #2. This is a rustic cabin next to a stream. Waze GPS got us right to camp site. Tom the camp host greeted us shortly after we arrived and was so helpful on tips to keep cabin cozy. He also gave us a map and excellent directions to Dupont Forest. Camp restrooms/showers are a short walk from cabin. Port a potty even closer than restrooms. Camp ground has a good vibe. Front door didn't lock. Smore kit for extra fee was awesome, also some assorted snacks available. There is a small store nearby to get basics. No phone or internet service available at campground. Relax and unplug!

Courtney

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Cold Spring Basecamp

Had a great time this weekend at the Corn Crib! This cute little cabin was a perfect getaway for me, my partner and my dog! Will definitely be back!

L

Laura

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Peace Of Pisgah

Cozy little spot! Such a great glamping setup with all the amenities!

A

Austen

November 2025

1 night at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

Great spot near the stream. Trailhead on site. Coffee shop across the street, not sure the hours, and another down into Rosman. Experienced great hospitality. Warm cabin, even for a cold night!

Jenna

November 2025

With pets

1 night at Cold Spring Basecamp

The treehouse was beautiful! We had a great time.

A

Ashley

November 2025

Weekend Trip to At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

A great place on the river. The bed was broken and not comfortable at all. It does not have a k cup just a regular coffee pot. Bring coffee filters and not k cups. There is 2 pieces of wood going on to the deck that was rotten and I almost fell through. We only seen one porta potty for about 15 sites.

Kate

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cold Spring Basecamp

Def wish I’d had a sturdier vehicle due to the gravel road but it was well maintained. so no issues. Gorgeous woodsy setting. My daughter loved the treehouse & is already asking to go back

J

Jacalyn

October 2025

2 nights at Peace Of Pisgah

My husband and I loved this whole camping experience! The tent is super spacious with a beautiful view of the creek. We'd wake up to the sound of happy ducks playing in the water too. I have back problems and was worried about the bed at first, but man! It was SO comfortable. I was even able to use the swing yoga rig at the pavilion to do some decompression for my back. Vicki was so kind and very communicative with any and all questions. I also loved all the little signs that give detailed instructions for any and every thing. 100/10 can't wait to go back!

Access to canoes and a dock just a short drive (or walk) from the cabin.

Eifel

October 2025

1 night at Mountaintop Fantasy

This a very unique and cozy treehouse cabin in a beautiful location, right by Lake Glenville. It is a comfortable space with lots of amenities for a fun weekend in the mountains, and feels very secluded surrounded by woods and at a high elevation. Despite being there in rainy weather, it was beautiful with all the fall foliage! And Peter is a very friendly and welcoming host. I would certainly recommend a visit!

B

Brian

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Mountaintop Fantasy

This Treehouse/ Overlook was just right for glamping - all accommodations and ease of use! Warm space to sleep with WiFi, open air kitchen with full accessories, heated full bathroom and shower while being able to enjoy the view of the mountains and nature. Instructions and directions are well thought out and posted for everything. Layout is an easy walk and well designed - great place to to relax and just enjoy your time! Our furry host, Molly was a pleasure to meet and get to know too! Good times had by all!

H

Hailey

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cold Spring Basecamp

My toddler was begging to go camping, and this was a perfect option for our first kid-friendly go at it. The ability to cook some warm meals on the stove was helpful, and not have to deal with a tent was very convenient. Mattresses on the bunks were comfy. We loved being tucked up on the hill in the Corn Crib.