The best camping near Francis Marion National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Francis Marion National Forest adventure.

92% (6 reviews)

Re-trace the steps of a Revolutionary War hero in this national forest.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Francis Marion National Forest

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Francis Marion National Forest

Stumbled upon this grassy field all to ourselves with plenty of room to stretch out and play some catch.

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Elmwood Recreation Area

2 sites · RVs, Tents In Francis Marion National Forest

Honey Hill Recreation Area

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Francis Marion National Forest

Intracoastal Waterway at Buck Hall Recreation Area

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Buck Hall Recreation Area and Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents In Francis Marion National Forest

Hellhole Bay Wilderness Campground

1 site In Francis Marion National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Francis Marion National Forest

96%

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Hanscombe Point Plantation

12 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Johns Island, SC

Hanscombe Point Plantation is a 300 acre working farm that has been in the Legare family for 9 generations. We raise beef cows, heritage breeds of pigs, laying hens, and water buffalo. Additionally, we raise vegetables and do a lot of agri-tourism including: summer camps, school field trips, and a large pumpkin patch maze each year.Our accommodations include a vintage camper, primitive campsites along a salt water creek, and an RV area on our farm.We are located just 30 minutes from nearby beaches and downtown Charleston. Use our property as your base of operation as you have fun at the beach or tour the historic city, or just stay for a quiet get away in the woods.There is also a lot of wildlife such as: wild turkeys, woodstorks, raccoons, and alligators. Fishing and crabbing are available on the salt water creek next to the campsite as well.We look forward to hosting you!

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Gathering Grounds

49 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Ridgeville, SC

LOCATED IN BEAUTIFUL RIDGEVILLE, South Carolina. LESS than an hour from Historic Charleston and 20 minutes from beautiful Summerville. Natural Gathering Grounds is a Forest School and Waldorf inspired camp ground and natural learning environment. This eco-retreat facility is located on 53 acres with a growing family farm, fishing ponds, walking trails, archery, tent camping, gardening, craft/activity centerand 900 feet of the Edisto River. Our summer campsare offered weekly and daily. Camps focus on interaction and appreciation for the natural world. Our mission is to inspire wonder and encourage discovery while making meaningful connections in a natural environment. Come experience freedom, tranquility, and exploration here in the beautiful Lowcountry. Located minutes from Givhans Ferry State Park - 16 miles from Summerville. Visit Natural Gathering Grounds!

Under the Stars

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Ridgeville, SC

Located in Givhans South Carolina. 40 minute drive to Charleston. Located across the street from Givhans Ferry State Park which sits on the Edisto River..hiking trails, swimming in the Edisto River and a launch for kayaks, paddle boards etc. 2 convenience stores are also located across the street. Electric and water available at campsite and shower available in one of the cabins on property.

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Isla Mas Afuera

4 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Murrells Inlet, SC

3.5 acre property, last remaining part of old inlet horse farm, with plenty of natural buffers from the few neighbors in our vicinity and between our camp sites, as well as the road. So close to everything the inlet area has to offer. Beaches, tidal inlet with boat ramps, Waccamaw River with boat ramps, restaurants, shops, bars, State Parks, nature preserves, fun attractions and much, much more, all just moments away. We are set up as a “primitive” camping experience, the property is kept very natural, unmanicured for the most part, little to no herbicides or insecticides used here. It’s a work in progress, is difficult for me to tackle chores due to physical disabilities, so some private areas are disorganized at this time. I live here full time, with two cats & 5 chickens whom are all free range. I live here in a double wide by myself, two outdoor cats. Deer, fox, rabbits, hawks and the like are common visitors. This is brand new to me, lots of improvements to be made in the future to make a guests stay even better, so for right now it’s bare bones. Can accommodate tents or certain campers. No pump out, no electricity or running water for “sites” yet, if ever, but running water is here and available for free. Additions to come soon: outdoor shower, available compost toilet available for rent while here, fresh herbs, vegetables, fresh local eggs, firewood, and covered gathering/ cooking area (not built yet) and much more, I’m really excited. Open to idea’s and options. No fireworks/ gunfire allowed at anytime, no “parties”, but gatherings, campfires, games and fun always welcome. I prefer meeting guests apon arrival to answer any questions and help all feel comfortable. I do have medical conditions that may prohibit it at times though.

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Edisto River Luxury RV Resort

2 sites · RVs4 acres · Ridgeville, SC

Locate on a riverfront property on the Edisto River. Very quiet and beautiful pond view, full hookup luxury RV sites. Amenities include private furnished screened Gazebo with mini fridge, tv and wifi, shared bath with free laundry and the most amazing outdoor shower. The pond is stocked with fish and has a beautiful fountain which produces white noise during the evening and most of the night. Just 1 hour from Downtown Charleston and 20 minutes to Walterboro and I-95. Nearby is Givhans Ferry State Park great for swimming, and the popular river tubing or The nearby Bee City Zoo which has a wide selection of fun and exciting exhibits for adults and children. Built by hand from scratch, we tried to think of everything you would need to leave you rested during your journey. Designed specifically for Motorhome's but we can also accept tow behind campers, roof top tents and tent camping. This is an upscale resort for those who want a quiet and peaceful experience vs the crammed and crowded commercial campgrounds.

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The Powell's Place

42 sites · Tents14 acres · Cottageville, SC

14 acres wooded plenty deer 'n wildlife along with some small farm animals. Bikers and pets welcome.Learn more about this land:Secluded 14 acres quiet shade trees and sun. Access to public boat landing 2miles, all are welcome including bikers. As much space as you like pitch your tent anywhere you like, enjoy fire barrels in the evenings along with a cold beer and music if you choose. Animals welcome. :) 843-835-2645 cell 843-542_5793

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The Cardinal’s Nest

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Cottageville, SC

Enjoy this 1 acre property that is right on the beautiful Edisto River. Set up an air mattress in the screened room underneath the house, bring your tent or for an additional charge use one of ours. Launch your jon boat from our ramp, swim from our floating dock, take a trip with our kayaks and canoe, sit around the fire pit, relax in the hammock, take in the beautiful sunset, and play some of the outdoor games (like corn hole) that are provided. We even have an outdoor TV! There is a toilet and sink available as well as an outdoor cold water shower. You can also use the hose and there is an electrical outlet available. Dogs are welcome, but must remain in your control as we do have neighbors. We actually have a small fenced dog area if you need it.

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Sanctuary

1 site · RV10 acres · Meggett, SC

Learn more about this land:Property is on a tidal creek which is adjacent to uninhabited islands and a 300 acre county park . County park only allows bicycles, horses or walking.

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Bells Marina & Resort

16 sites · Lodging, RVs6 acres · Eutawville, SC

Our small size and inspiring location make Bells Marina and Resort an exclusive experience. Enjoy the comforts of our boutique hotel and luxury cabins, bring your RV or camper, or “rough it” in one of our glamping sites. Bring your boat and keep it in one of our guest slips or our secured boat storage area. Our friendly staff can provide guides, gear, and just about anything you need for a family-friendly outdoor adventure at this secluded angler’s paradise. Bells Marina and Resort is an outdoor community in a protected cove on the popular Lake Marion, known for world-class fishing and record-breaking catches. Most of our visitors are dazzled at the beauty of the woods and water. We border 400 acres of the Santee Cooper Wildlife Management Area, and you can enjoy 180-degree views of the cove and waterfowl, from white herons to bald eagles. Meals are a special experience for our guests, and you have a lot of delicious options. Our friendly outdoor cooking area features barbecues and open-fire cooking. This is a great place to make new friends. The country store is stocked with the usual groceries, along with bait and tackle and camping accessories. We have fishing kits, s’mores kits, and many pre-made food options to make your stay easier. We also have a new 2-phase Electric vehicle charge station! Our family restaurant is a local favorite and offers fried, fresh-caught catfish. We are open for three meals most days. You can have a hot breakfast starting at 6:00 am, and be on the water or in the woods at sunrise. We will even cook your catch! If you don’t feel like hunting or fishing, Bells Marina has play spaces for the kids and relaxing spaces for adults. Join us for movie nights or just unwind at the community campfire. Golfing is just minutes away! No matter what kind of vacation you have in mind, Bells Marina and Resort has everything you need for a memorable adventure. Please note our store closes at 9 pm. If you make a last-minute reservation please call our store Before reserving at 803-492-7924 or you may not get a spot as we sync to our calendar once a day!

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Herd It Here Farm

5 sites · RVs13 acres · Cottageville, SC

Herd It Here Farm is a unique agritourism destination that provides enjoyable and educational experiences for visitors of all ages. Get ready to be immersed in our farm culture! Learn about our fabulous alpacas and feel their amazing fleece. You'll also get up close and personal with our silkie and Polish chickens, the fainting and pygmy goats, Eddie the mini donkey, Tilly the mini pony and the big guy, our rescue horse, Cherokee. Visit our Country Store for an opportunity to purchase beautiful alpaca fleece clothing - scarves, hats, and gloves as well as felted items, toys, souvenirs, and local artisan goods. We're only 45 minutes from historic Charleston and even closer to beautiful "Plantation Row". Come visit us! Please plan your trip to arrive before dark. Once we put the animals to bed, we are done for the day...

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RV Spot-Full Hook-Up

1 site · RV10 acres · Ravenel, SC

The RV spot is special. Enjoy your own space in nature, not far from Charleston (25 mins). We provide 50 amps, septic hook-up, water, & firewood. Our spot is private & perfect for relaxing & unwinding. Enjoy a bonfire, gaze @ stars, read a book, or go for a bike ride @ the West Ashley Greenway. We are close to beaches, restaurants, Plantations, & shopping. There is a boat landing up the road; go kayaking, crabbing, or boating. We are pet friendly! Gravel driveway is pull-through so easy in/out!

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Summerville Tents

3 sites · RVs2 acres · Summerville, SC

2 acres located in county but within minutes to all amenities of Summerville, SC. There is a heavily wooded backdrop on the land and a semi busy street fronting the land. The setback is 300’ so you can create privacy. It’s an open flat lot with grassy areas. Perfect for small groups that want to set up activities on the land. I live beside the property in a hoa with a miles of walking and beautiful ponds. Hiking trails within a couple minute drive. Historical downtown Summerville also a couple minute drive.

The best camping near Francis Marion National Forest guide

Overview

About

Nicknamed the Swamp Fox, Gen. Francis Marion's war tactics gave the Redcoats fits. Re-live that history in the national forest that bears his name. Four wilderness areas cover 259,000 acres and four quaint towns. Explore cypress swamps, palmetto-lined hiking and ATV trails, and fishing lakes.

Start with the Yellow Branch Falls Trail. Walk 1.5 miles to the falls and back for 3 miles total. Dip your hand in the 50-foot cascade of water heading over several layers of rocks for a refresher on a hot day.

Head to nearby Stumphouse Tunnel Trail. Follow it until you reach an opening in the side of the mountain. You can go in a few hundred feet, and it's a cool respite on a hot summer's day. Walk down the trail a little farther to reach Issaqueena Falls, a photogenic and isolated spot.

Check out Little Wambaw Swamp Wilderness and its beautiful cypress trees. It's best to explore in winter to avoid mosquitoes.

Numerous campgrounds have various amenities throughout this vast forest.