The best private sites RV campgrounds 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.

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Top-rated campgrounds

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. Camp Moondog

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21mi from Clemson · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Greenville, SC

Welcome to Camp Moondog! Camp Moondog is a 36-acre forested retreat in beautiful Greenville, South Carolina, featuring two private campsites thoughtfully tucked into the woods. Flanked on both sides by the Saluda River—with nearly half a mile of river frontage—our property is a must-book for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone craving a peaceful getaway filled with woods, water, and fresh air. Just across the river (or a quick 5-minute drive) is Dolly Cooper Park, a favorite for disc-golf enthusiasts and families exploring the local trails. Even better, Camp Moondog sits only 10 minutes from world-renowned Downtown Greenville—famous for its incredible restaurants, festivals, boutique shopping, and lively social scene. Here, you can enjoy an “off-the-grid” experience without giving up convenience: food delivery is still just a tap away, and last-minute essentials are an easy drive. At Camp Moondog, our philosophy is simple: provide a carefree, clean, and natural environment for a relaxing camping experience. If we’re available, we’re happy to use our ATVs to help transport your gear to any of the campsites—just give us at least a day’s notice so we can plan to meet you. Because the property naturally offers ample deadfall for firewood, we do not provide or sell pre-packaged bundles. Please keep this in mind if there has been recent rainfall, as the downed wood may be damp. We look forward to welcoming you to Camp Moondog. Happy Trails! ~ Mike & Kelly

2. Serenity on the Saluda

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32mi from Clemson · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Honea Path, SC

This property has two river campsites, two campsites in the woods and one more just a stones throw from the river. The river sites are separated by a small patch of woods, so if you are looking for complete privacy, Hill Top or Hill Side is the place to go. PLEASE FOLLOW "ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS" as most GPS directions are not accurate. 30 minutes to Diamond Hill Mine, 15 minutes to The Shoals MX. I sell firewood so please DO NOT CUT LIVE TREES!

3. Indian Creek Rental's Mountain Camp

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33mi from Clemson · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rosman, NC

Escape to Nature at Indian Creek Rentals Looking for a peaceful mountain retreat? Our secluded campsites in the heart of Western North Carolina offer the perfect getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind under the stars. We’re Clayton & Tiffany, owners of Indian Creek Rentals, LLC—a unique property featuring vacation homes, a mini farm, and miles of private hiking trails (approx. 2 miles), all accessible right from camp! We now offer two campsites and one unique camper stay, all with access to a shared bathhouse and outdoor Wi-Fi. Campsite & Camper Options 🔥 Site 1: Mountain Shine Camp Trailer – A one-of-a-kind, converted horse trailer with a queen bed, stocked essentials, and a cozy setup. Offers privacy, yet still close to Site 2. 🏕 Site 2: Mountain View Site – Features a hot tub and a covered shed, so you can relax and stay dry no matter the weather. 🌲 Site 3: Primitive Forest Site – A true off-grid experience deep in the woods, complete with a picnic table and firepit 🌟Group Camping Option– Booking Site 1 & Site 2 together is perfect for group camping! We can also accommodate an additional RV for an extra charge. Good to Know ✔ Pack in/Pack out – No dumpsters on-site, so please take your trash with you. ✔ Private hiking trails – Explore 2 miles of scenic trails straight from camp. ✔ Mini farm on-site – Say hello to our friendly animals! Whether you’re looking for a cozy camper stay, a hot tub under the stars, or a rustic primitive site, Indian Creek Rentals has the perfect spot for your next adventure. **Happy Camping!**

4. Trails & Tails Waterfalls Retreat

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44mi from Clemson · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pisgah Forest, NC

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. Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

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46mi from Clemson · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cullowhee, NC

8 years ago I purchased my dream retirement.... 108 acres in the beautiful college town of Cullowhee, NC. Nestled up to the Great Smoky Mountains National park, this property is unique in everything it offers. Riverside on the renowned fly fishing river, the Tuckasegee River, or ridge top on Cullowhee Mountain, elevation 3850'. There are improved camp sites, a yurt, or free range camping and hiking. The fall views are spectacular, wherever you decide to locate. We implement " Leave no trace" rules and welcome respectful 4wd access to our ridge top. We are currently endeavoring agroforestry techniques to respectfully harvest the bounties of the woodlands in our Living Mountain Farms online store. Our hope is to one day make this magical mountain sustain those who reside upon the reserve, and provide a most memorable stay for our guests! Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

6. Cedar Ridge Base Camp

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(36)

33mi from Clemson · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Brevard, NC

Tucked away in the lush woodlands of Western North Carolina, Cedar Ridge is a hidden gem offering just six private campsites—each nestled in its own quiet nook of forest for a peaceful, back-to-nature experience. Designed with the off-road adventure vehicle in mind, this intimate campground is the perfect basecamp for outdoor lovers looking to explore some of the best mountain biking and hiking the region has to offer. Located just minutes from the trails of DuPont State Recreational Forest and the charming Cedar Mountain Community, you’ll be immersed in natural beauty while still being close to the area’s local flavor. Only 15 minutes from downtown Brevard and 25 minutes from Pisgah National Forest, Cedar Ridge places you at the heart of Western North Carolina’s renowned adventure corridor. Whether you’re riding through waterfall-laced singletrack, enjoying a quiet morning coffee among the trees, or spending evenings under a canopy of stars, Cedar Ridge offers the solitude and convenience you’ve been looking for. Highlights: • 6 secluded, wooded campsites • A few minutes from DuPont State Forest & Cedar Mountain • 15 minutes to Brevard, 25 minutes to Pisgah National Forest • Ideal for mountain bikers, hikers, and nature seekers • Peaceful, quiet atmosphere surrounded by forest Ready to escape the crowds and reconnect with nature? Come find your favorite corner of the forest at Cedar Ridge.

7. Raven Rock

98%

(24)

40mi from Clemson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Zirconia, NC

Welcome to Raven Rock. Raven Rock is located less than 3 miles from Ride Rock Creek. It sits on 88 acres with a couple streams going through the property and one pond that’s about an acre. The first camp site is just below the water fall and the other site over looks the pond. The property is very remote and private. Fire wood can be purchased from the owner. $5 bundle CASH No Fishing

8. Camp Woodmont

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(6)

4.9mi from Clemson · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Central, SC

Have your morning coffee and evening cocktail viewing the beautiful nature. Private campsite, woodland setting, and peaceful view. This site includes a level gravel parking pad, electric hook up for 30 or 50 amp, water and sewer hook up. Perks of private property camping surrounded by nature and wildlife and convenient to Downtown Clemson, Greenville and surrounded areas. Easy access to mountains, lakes, rivers, scenic drives and 6 miles from Clemson Games.

Camper favorites near Clemson

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Trails & Tails Waterfalls Retreat

100%

(81)

44mi from Clemson · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pisgah Forest, NC

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

Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

98%

(90)

46mi from Clemson · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cullowhee, NC

8 years ago I purchased my dream retirement.... 108 acres in the beautiful college town of Cullowhee, NC. Nestled up to the Great Smoky Mountains National park, this property is unique in everything it offers. Riverside on the renowned fly fishing river, the Tuckasegee River, or ridge top on Cullowhee Mountain, elevation 3850'. There are improved camp sites, a yurt, or free range camping and hiking. The fall views are spectacular, wherever you decide to locate. We implement " Leave no trace" rules and welcome respectful 4wd access to our ridge top. We are currently endeavoring agroforestry techniques to respectfully harvest the bounties of the woodlands in our Living Mountain Farms online store. Our hope is to one day make this magical mountain sustain those who reside upon the reserve, and provide a most memorable stay for our guests! Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

Cedar Ridge Base Camp

100%

(36)

33mi from Clemson · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Brevard, NC

Tucked away in the lush woodlands of Western North Carolina, Cedar Ridge is a hidden gem offering just six private campsites—each nestled in its own quiet nook of forest for a peaceful, back-to-nature experience. Designed with the off-road adventure vehicle in mind, this intimate campground is the perfect basecamp for outdoor lovers looking to explore some of the best mountain biking and hiking the region has to offer. Located just minutes from the trails of DuPont State Recreational Forest and the charming Cedar Mountain Community, you’ll be immersed in natural beauty while still being close to the area’s local flavor. Only 15 minutes from downtown Brevard and 25 minutes from Pisgah National Forest, Cedar Ridge places you at the heart of Western North Carolina’s renowned adventure corridor. Whether you’re riding through waterfall-laced singletrack, enjoying a quiet morning coffee among the trees, or spending evenings under a canopy of stars, Cedar Ridge offers the solitude and convenience you’ve been looking for. Highlights: • 6 secluded, wooded campsites • A few minutes from DuPont State Forest & Cedar Mountain • 15 minutes to Brevard, 25 minutes to Pisgah National Forest • Ideal for mountain bikers, hikers, and nature seekers • Peaceful, quiet atmosphere surrounded by forest Ready to escape the crowds and reconnect with nature? Come find your favorite corner of the forest at Cedar Ridge.

Raven Rock

98%

(24)

40mi from Clemson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Zirconia, NC

Welcome to Raven Rock. Raven Rock is located less than 3 miles from Ride Rock Creek. It sits on 88 acres with a couple streams going through the property and one pond that’s about an acre. The first camp site is just below the water fall and the other site over looks the pond. The property is very remote and private. Fire wood can be purchased from the owner. $5 bundle CASH No Fishing

Camp Woodmont

100%

(6)

4.9mi from Clemson · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Central, SC

Have your morning coffee and evening cocktail viewing the beautiful nature. Private campsite, woodland setting, and peaceful view. This site includes a level gravel parking pad, electric hook up for 30 or 50 amp, water and sewer hook up. Perks of private property camping surrounded by nature and wildlife and convenient to Downtown Clemson, Greenville and surrounded areas. Easy access to mountains, lakes, rivers, scenic drives and 6 miles from Clemson Games.

Stories from the community

J

Joey

2 weeks ago

27 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the Saluda

The setup was perfect. I was a little worried about making it down to the site with my travel trailer (27 ft) but it was doable. Plenty of space to spread out and had plenty of privacy. We would definitely stay again.

Brad

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Moondog

It was an awesome experience!! I highly recommend Mike and Kelly’s spot!

c

caroline

2 weeks ago

19 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Trails & Tails Waterfalls Retreat

It’s a great location, great camping spots and we had a great stay. Very welcoming! We’d certainly go back.

D

Dylan

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cedar Ridge Base Camp

My girlfriend and I have a fantastic time at Andy’s campground. He came over as the sun was going down and we were getting our fire started from the firewood that he had available. Such a pleasant night under the stars. Would highly recommend!

Stewart

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Raven Rock

Second visit to Raven Rock this year. Had just as much fun as the first time. Jeffery is a great host. Very peaceful and quiet. Only about 20 mins from town feels a lot further. Completely pet friendly and pet safe.

J

Jeff

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the Saluda

Really enjoyed our site. Nice and relaxing by the river. John was very helpful. We would stay again for sure and hope to one day! We had no major issues.

Creek on one side, driveway on the other and a few short steps tho the large back lawn.

R

Robert

3 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Trails & Tails Waterfalls Retreat

Lovely and peaceful location near the national forest. Very welcoming. I’ll be back!

Mark

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the Saluda

Awesome place. It's quiet and peaceful. The land is well taken care of. I stayed at the hill top site. I couldn't have asked for better place to stay. If you want solitude this is it.

S

Savannah

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Trails & Tails Waterfalls Retreat

We loved tent camping on the dispersed campsites! It was easy to find/access, and it was very dog friendly. Beth was very warm and welcoming as well!

A

Ashley

November 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Camp Moondog

Such a perfect little hideaway oasis! I will absolutely come back!

A

Aden

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Trails & Tails Waterfalls Retreat

They were very nice and the property manager is nice and accessible.

R

Ronan

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cedar Ridge Base Camp

Fantastic spot! Great communication! It was a quick stop for me, but will definitely be back next time I ride at DuPont

T

Tim

October 2025

11 ft campervan

1 night at Trails & Tails Waterfalls Retreat

A++! Beth called me not long after I booked; ensured I was squared away on where to find them and position myself on their property. Even messaged me a bit later with a couple recommendations on good local coffee spots! Great spot near Brevard, whether you only need a "park-up" for a night like I did, or have a modest rig and benefit from being plugged in for a couple days.

M

Michael

October 2025

3 nights at Indian Creek Rental's Mountain Camp

Always a great stay. Beautiful views and the bathhouse is second to none. Clayton and Tiffany are super friendly and helpful as always. Looking forward to our next visit.

B

Brenna

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at Raven Rock

We absolutely love camping by the waterfall! If you have an AWD/4x4 vehicle you can make it up the drive. Just be aware if bears and other animals. Our last day it was raining quite a bit so the drive back was slick but other than that zero complaints! Hendersonville is only 25 mins away and it's such a cute town with all you need for camping or food :) we will absolutely be back (more prepared, of course)

J

Jacque

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Trails & Tails Waterfalls Retreat

Beth and Rob were awesome Hosts, and they have an amazing property! I car/tent camped at Site 5 for 3 nights. My favorite thing to do was sitting on my "lawn", reading a good book, and listening to the creek. So relaxing. Four of the Dispersed Sites on the level below were filled on the weekend. The entire place was still nice and quiet. The outdoor shower was wonderful, and the Port-a-Potty was clean and serviced weekly. My Granddaughter is a Freshman at Brevard College, and Trails & Tails Waterfall HipCamp will be my home away from home when I visit! 😊

J

James

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Camp Moondog

Wow. Great spot for a wonderful weekend in the woods.

R

Rhia

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the Saluda

The Hideaway was the PERFECT spot for my pup’s first camping trip! This campsite had the perfect amount of seclusion so she didn’t run into other campsites to make “new friends,” it was right next to an open field for her get her zoomies out, and the river was still super close. John was an incredibly kind and generous host! I met him in the driveway on the way in and mentioned that I forgot a fire starter. He graciously brought a lighter, paper, and extra wood to the Hideway within minutes. On a scale of 1-5 Tents (stars) with 5 Tents being the best… I give Serenity on the Saluda a whopping 10 Tent🏕️ rating!

A

Amy

October 2025

10 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the Saluda

Perfect camping spot by the river. Privacy and beauty. John is very responsive. The compost toilet outhouse was tidy with no smell. We recommend!

R

Richard

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Trails & Tails Waterfalls Retreat

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I stayed for three nights while visiting nearby family and needed a peaceful place to pitch my tent. (I actually prefer sleeping on the ground when traveling alone.) I was so fortunate to have chosen this spot over all the other possibilities! I stayed at the “A” site — super quiet to the point that I didn’t even need my earplugs. There were a few other campers, but they were hardly noticeable, and there was no nearby traffic noise at all. The running brook next to the tent site added a peaceful, relaxing background sound that made my stay even better. My hosts were warm and attentive, making sure I had everything I needed. I could tell they were truly in touch with Mother Earth and cared for the land in a thoughtful way. I’m already looking forward to coming back with my partner to explore more of the hiking and biking opportunities in this beautiful area.