The best camping in Francis Marion National Forest, SC
86% (11)
Re-trace the steps of a Revolutionary War hero in this national forest.
86% (11)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Francis Marion National Forest adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Francis Marion National Forest
Elmwood Recreation Area
1. Elmwood Recreation Area
100%
(1)
Catch a turkey and eat it too at Elmwood Recreation Area where hunting is top priority
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Buck Hall Recreation Area and Campground
2. Buck Hall Recreation Area and Campground
92%
(6)
If shrimp is the fruit of the sea than Buck Hall Recreation Area is the pit of the fruit
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Honey Hill Recreation Area
3. Honey Hill Recreation Area
83%
(3)
Kind words are like honey and boy do we have a sweet tooth for Honey Hill Recreation Area
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Hellhole Bay Wilderness Campground
4. Hellhole Bay Wilderness Campground
Hellhole Bay Wilderness Area is far from that—a hellish place on heart
Top-rated campsites near Francis Marion National Forest
Bells Marina & Resort Eutawville SC
1. Bells Marina & Resort Eutawville SC
95%
(21)
13mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 3 sites
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.
Don’t forget to stop by the big gray building behind the store—there’s a pool table waiting for you! Feeling active? We’ve got a gym on-site too!
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!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Rustic Natural Campsite
2. Rustic Natural Campsite
99%
(84)
25mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are located on 11 acres. Wooded areas, hiking trails on-site. Perfect place to watch for deer and other animals including our 8 on-leash dogs! It is a train lover's dream because we are close to the tracks and enjoy watching the train come and go so much so that the conductor toots and waves to us!! The Santee State Park has many water activities, picnic areas, and hiking trails. There are several golf courses nearby, and a local restaurant/bar within walking distance which often offers trivia, karaoke, pool tables, and live music. Just be careful as you will be walking on the side of a main road as well as over train tracks.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Double J Acres
3. Double J Acres
100%
(20)
27mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
1 full acre with open space and tall pines, located 10 miles from town, 10 minutes from the Santee state park and lake Marion, less than 1 mile from 2 boat landings, Stumphole landing and popular creek landing, both with small wonderful resturants to serve you, 15 minutes from I-95, 1 hour from Charleston, Columbia and Florence, we have primitive tent spaces and 1 RV camper hook up with water, power and sewage available, plenty of room for boats and other vehicle parking
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Camp at The Farm - Outside Inn
4. Camp at The Farm - Outside Inn
99%
(46)
30mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Bowen Farms
5. Bowen Farms
91%
(43)
32mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 4 sites
Ease of access! Minutes to I-26, I-95 and Hwy 301. Equal distance to Columbia and Charleston on I-26 and Florence and Savannah, Georgia on I-95. Relax with the whole family at this peaceful place to stay. Private, rural area. Santee, SC is 15 minutes away with golfing, Lake Marion, and a small water park. Edisto River is 20 minute drive. Central to Columbia, Charleston, Florence, and Savannah, GA.
Pets
Instinct Earth Riverside Retreat
6. Instinct Earth Riverside Retreat
92%
(104)
37mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Ian's background is in art, public education, and exploring the outdoors. Growing up in the Lowcountry of South Carolina allowed for endless opportunities to explore and foster an appreciation for the outdoors. It is the peace and tranquility of the wetlands, and the time spent with family and friends in these unique ecosystems, that always brought me comfort and wonder. It was in June of 2019 that dreams of having my name attached to land became a reality. Since the contract was signed; family, friends, and I have been developing the property and programming classes and adventures to share with those who seek them. We have developed several unique sites to share with you and will continue to improve as we foster our partnership with the land and share its bounty.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Edisto River Luxury RV Resort
7. Edisto River Luxury RV Resort
100%
(232)
38mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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. Short trail to a shared dock to access the river. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Kidogo Farms
8. Kidogo Farms
92%
(36)
41mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 2 sites
Tucked away on a private campsite within the boundaries of Kidogo Farms, this camper is ideal for the new camper, and novice, alike. Enjoy a relaxing stay on a private site with all of the amenities to make you comfortable.
This is a great place to relax after spending the day exploring historic Georgetown, hiking on the banks of the Black River, or relaxing at the beach in nearby Pawley's Island.
Conveniently located about an hour in between Myrtle Beach, Charleston and Florence.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Herd It Here Farm
9. Herd It Here Farm
100%
(41)
42mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 5 sites
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...
Pets
Bird Song
10. Bird Song
100%
(23)
43mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Bird Song is a peaceful place to relax. Enjoy nature while still having the convenience of dining, shopping, and attractions nearby. There’s a boat landing in the neighborhood for boats and kayaks — it’s also a great spot for crabbing.
A CVS Pharmacy, grocery stores, and a laundromat are all close by. Downtown Charleston is just a 15-minute drive, and renowned plantations are only 6 miles away. Folly Beach is about a 30–40 minute drive.
The site includes full hookups, a fire pit with grill top, and a poly picnic table. Enjoy swinging in the nearby hammocks while listening to shorebirds flying in from the nearby marsh. Two free parking spaces are provided.
There is Wi-Fi on-site.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Camping in the Heart of the Winery
11. Camping in the Heart of the Winery
90%
(120)
45mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a Working Vineyard tucked away in the country right outside of Florence with Ample Space for your RV. You can reach us easily either by I-20, I-95, or Hwy 76. We Love to see New Faces and Swap Traveling Stories! We Grow, Harvest, Crush, and Press Our Grapes Right here at The Vineyard. There is Plenty of RV Space on the Property with Easily Accessible Power Hook-Ups and Water.
We offer Wine Tastings and if available at the time, a Tour the Winery at your Leisure. We are a Pet-Friendly, so you can bring your Fur Babies with You.
Learn more about this land:
Campsite is designed for RV's with power hook-ups, located among an 18-acre grape vineyard. Enjoy our country setting, southern hospitality, spectacular wine selections (Award Winning Fruit Wines), and a tour of our working winery. We also have a screened-in fence area that is perfect for tent camping, especially when you usually have it all to yourself.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Black Pearl Farms
12. Black Pearl Farms
98%
(332)
47mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to the serene beauty of Black Pearl Farms, a unique glamping resort nestled on 145 picturesque acres of a working organic blueberry farm. Bring your RV and park in style, or indulge in our luxurious geodesic dome glamp sites for a modern twist on camping. Cozy up in one of our charming canvas cabins, or pitch your tent on a private campsite surrounded by lush orchards and trails waiting to be explored.
Unwind in our on-site sauna after a day of adventure, then enjoy boating access, prime fishing spots, breathtaking sunsets over the fields, and unparalleled stargazing under crystal-clear skies.
Located remotely for true peace and seclusion, yet easily accessible via major highways RT 95 and RT 26, and just 1–1:15 hours from major cities including Charleston (about 1 hour away), Beaufort (around 1–1:15 hours), Bluffton (roughly 1–1:15 hours), Savannah (approximately 1–1:15 hours), and Columbia (about 1 hour)—our grounds also place you near fantastic nearby parks such as Givhans Ferry State Park, Colleton State Park, and Congaree National Park for additional outdoor exploration. We offer the perfect blend of tranquil escape and convenient reach to these vibrant destinations and natural wonders, all along a half-mile of waterfront on the twisting Edisto River.
Whether you're seeking tranquility or outdoor excitement, Black Pearl Farms delivers an unforgettable glamping experience.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Sweetwater Lake Campground
13. Sweetwater Lake Campground
94%
(25)
48mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Beautiful Sweetwater Lake Campground offers RV sites ( short term and long-term),803-387-1375
All inclusive glamping tents for rent. 2 night minimum on glamping tents and no more than 4 people allowed. All RV and glamping lots overlook our 40 acre private natural spring fed lake. Rv sites have water, electricity, and we have a sewer station. All glamping tent sites come with a queen size bed, crisp, clean linen, two hammocks, grill, fire pit and firewood. There is electricity at glamping site and a fan in the tent.There is a private fishing area and basic necessities, Bathhouse is a short walk. All RV sites are located overlooking the water .We are only 1 mile off of I26 in St Matthews, SC exit 139. located between Columbia and Charleston, South Carolina) Come experience a quiet country setting and amazing fishing experience. No license required and you may keep what you catch! 2 night minimum on glamping sites. Congaree National Park close by!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Edisto Camp And Canoe
14. Edisto Camp And Canoe
100%
(22)
34mi from Francis Marion National Forest
Primitive camping along the longest black water river in the southeast. With pond and riverfront camping you will be able to enjoy all that the Edisto River has to offer (camping, canoeing, fishing, floating and/or tubing).
Mature wooded area
15. Mature wooded area
86%
(11)
4.1mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Several properties to choose from. 13 acre Field, 5 acre woods, 1 acre cleared full hookups. Bathhouse and laundry available. Rental units available also.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Mac M.’s Land
16. Mac M.’s Land
15mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 1 site
Locklairs
Full hookups
Stop and Fish RV Park
17. Stop and Fish RV Park
20mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 53 sites
Stop and Fish RV Park offers lots that are 30x60 feet. With a variety of choices, we have it all from privacy to lockable sheds that are 10x10 feet, or fences. With each unit you are provided water, sewer, electric, and facilities. Stop and Fish is the premier RV Park near Lake Marion South Carolina.
Pets
Full hookups
Deep Water RV Park
18. Deep Water RV Park
22mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 14 sites
Weekly bookings only! Deep Water RV Park offers full hookup lots that are 18 x 50 feet and 25 x 60 feet. With a variety of choices, we have it all including a lockable storage building. With each unit you are provided water, sewer, electric, and facilities. Deep Water is the premier RV Park on Lake Marion South Carolina and right off interstate I-95.
Pets
Full hookups
The 30 Acre Wood at M & R Farm
19. The 30 Acre Wood at M & R Farm
22mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 1 site
Tucked away on 30 private acres, this peaceful countryside retreat is designed for slowing down and enjoying the outdoors.
With no close neighbors in sight, you’ll have the freedom to truly unplug—whether that means morning coffee by the water, afternoons exploring the land, or evenings around the fire under a wide-open sky.
The property features a scenic pond perfect for catch-and-release fishing or simply relaxing by the shoreline. Bring your boots and wander the acreage, let the kids roam freely, or settle into a quiet rhythm of nature and fresh air.
This is an ideal getaway for families, couples, and small groups looking for space, privacy, and a true rural experience. The setting also makes it a great base for those interested in hunting, fishing, or exploring the surrounding countryside.
Guests love the balance of comfort and simplicity—enough amenities to feel at ease, with plenty of room to disconnect from the noise of everyday life. Whether you’re gathered around the firepit, enjoying a slow morning, or watching the sunset reflect off the water, every part of your stay invites you to unwind.
Located within easy driving distance of the local town, as well as Lake Marion, while still feeling completely secluded, this property offers the best of both worlds: convenience when you need it, and total privacy when you don’t.
Come experience a stay where time slows down, the stars shine brighter, and the only schedule is your own.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Summerville country RV retreat
20. Summerville country RV retreat
24mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 1 site
Welcome to our RV retreat nestled near the home of sweet tea, Summerville, SC. This tranquil haven offers an idyllic escape from the fast-paced world, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and a quiet neighborhood while enjoying the comforts of your RV.
The RV site is thoughtfully designed to provide ample space, ensuring privacy and a sense of seclusion. Surrounded by lush greenery, tall trees you'll feel a true connection with nature or to just decompress after a long workday.
The RV space sits on the front 1 acre lot, allowing you to comfortably park and set up your home away from home. Whether you have a small camper or a large motorhome, our accommodating site can cater to your needs. The area is well-maintained and level, ensuring a hassle-free parking experience. In this rural retreat, you'll have the opportunity to disconnect from the distractions of modern life while still enjoying essential amenities.
We invite you to savor the charm and tranquility of our RV space in our slice of peace and quiet.
Pets
Full hookups
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Michael
2 weeks ago
43 ft fifth wheel
Nice quaint spot easily got my 43 ft fifth wheel in Matt was helpful showing me where everything was. I will definitely be staying again and on the plus side they’re only 15 minutes from the Porchetta shop. A must try if you’re coming to Charleston highly recommend this campground.
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M
Mary
2 weeks ago
16 ft travel trailer
With kids
Camping in a Peaceful spot, under the stars, critters to feed, walk along side and pet, awesome shower and bathroom facilities, knowledgeable hosts and personnel, playground for the littles, walking trails, easy in and out, new fire rings, cute camp store. We had a great weekend get away. Obvious to us - many stay longer to enjoy the amenities of this location. The farm animals are a delight. We had our 3 GRANDchildren with us - all under 3 years of age. The goats, bunnies, chickens, fresh eggs, donkey, cows, pigs and water fowl were a delight to feed and touch some. The staff were great about sharing their knowledge. We have all agreed to return.
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L
LUCY
2 weeks ago
34 ft Class C
Great location, nice facilities and a welcome host ! Highly recommended and plan to return
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D
Denny
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
With pets
Great spot
Peaceful
Beautiful
Will definitely return
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A
Amber
3 weeks ago
45 ft travel trailer
We really loved the fresh farm store. The sourdough is dreamy. The owners were super personable and the property is absolutely beautiful. Well worth the visit!
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R
Regina
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We had a great experience camping on Ian’s land. There were several flat spots ideal for setting up our tents. And the river was a little low so there was a small beach for all the kids to hang on and to fish from. Ian met us as we arrived to give us the lay of the land. He was very accommodating to the ever changing size of our group and we communicated consistently until we arrived.
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J
Jennifer
3 weeks ago
Tent
I would 100% recommend this place! I have never had so many amenities camping for such a low price. Everything was top notch all the way to the landscaping and just as advertised. Having the dryer was a huge help with not having to bring back wet clothing. The pier was great to push off our paddle boards from. The enclosed gazebo area with the fridge was so relaxing. It even competed with the wonderful hot tub! We would go back for another glamping experience any time!
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Annette
3 weeks ago
23 ft travel trailer
Bird song, yes the birds were definitely singing the entire time we were there. It's so peaceful and serene. Close to downtown Charleston, about 20 minutes give or take. The property was beautifully maintained and the host Matt gave great information and near by dining spots. This place is a gem!
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J
Jen
May 2026
23 ft travel trailer
With pets
We loved camping on the farm. William met us at the gate and was very welcoming. The tour/introduction to the animals was very informative. It was quiet and relaxing during our stay. We would definitely return if in the area.
See moreH
Heather
May 2026
18 ft campervan
Our stay was wonderful. The property is clean, beautiful, quiet, and accessible. The location close to Charleston. The owners were responsive yet unobtrusive. I would love to come back and stay here again. The neighborhood is gorgeous and close to everything.
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M
Mindy
May 2026
16 ft car
With pets
Again, outstanding!! Stayed at Dustin's Luxury Resort on the way back from my travels. Even in the pouring rain we loved the beauty, privacy and serenity of what Edisto River has to offer. "
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J
Judy
May 2026
3 nights at Bird Song
Beautiful, peaceful and quiet. Convenient to everything. Hosts checked in on us and were so nice. We had a great visit at Bird Song.
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j
jean
April 2026
19 ft Class B
Our second stay, this camp is now the go to for our frequent trips to Florida. Beautiful with no frills, it’s perfect for our Class B.
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C
Christina
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Beautiful campsite and awesome hosts! 10/10 would recommend and hopefully will be returning!
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N
Nicole
April 2026
With pets
Great camping site! The owner was very communicative and helpful in a timely manner for anything we needed. Very cute tent set up and great amount of land to camp on. The property had a small self serve farm shop that was very useful. Would come again.
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R
Raynbow
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Everything was amazing! It was soooo beautiful 😍. Caught a bunch of fish on the beach area! So peaceful! Highly recommend
See moreM
Mindy
April 2026
16 ft car
With pets
Hands down BEST HipCamp ever!
Dustin's environment would be best described as a sanctuary. The indoor/outdoor lounge is comfortable for just about any weather. Even if raining, you could listen to the rain while surrounded by lush plants and trees and stay dry. If you wanted, you could watch just about whatever you would want with the Roku. The hot tub has an umbrella making soaking relaxing any time day or night regardless of the weather. Dustin provides quality screens with zippers to keep bugs out which I'm now considering making my own lower deck at home, screened in the exact spot same way!! Dustin has done an amazing job with accentuating the night time beauty with lit trees and walk ways, making it easy and scenic, to get to the immaculate bathroom, the washer and dryer was almost a ridiculous treat... who would have though?? A mini fridge.... thank you!! Electrical outlets available inside and out of the lounge . The patio vibe and fire pit, is a space not only aesthetically pleasing, but provide great a great function of minimizing/eliminating dirt from getting into vehicles. Dustin made obtaining firewood SO EASY!!! Cornhole and horseshoes surrounded by foliage that included lights gently illuminating bushes and trees.... I mean, really?? The vibe there is prefect!
Oh.... forgot to add.... a bonus pleasure of the fresh scent of honeysuckle everywhere!!!
When I make my travels
from West Virginia down to Florida and back, I typically look for and try out
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Tammy
April 2026
20 ft campervan
With pets
Dustin’s place is peaceful and the space is roomy and perfect. My dogs and I loved to hang out in the screened room. The Edisto River is beautiful. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and relax, this is it! Dustin was very attentive and helpful.
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D
Dylan
April 2026
20 ft travel trailer
Such a great stay! this spot is a hidden gem. The flat gravel made RV setup easy, and the fire pit, chairs, table, and hammock were all perfect for relaxing. Also full hookup!! The river view with ducks was peaceful and really made the place special. Really easy to drive downtown and get dinner and drinks.
The host was fantastic, attentive, friendly, and easy to communicate with. We’d definitely stay again and highly recommend it.
See morej
jean
April 2026
19 ft Class B
With pets
We got there late and left early and thoroughly enjoy our short stay. Our Merlin App recorded 14 different species of bird voices aa the dawn broke, sort of amazing. Easy, quiet, the birds were a sweet bonus, true country life.
See moreFrancis Marion National Forest camping 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.
Reviews for Francis Marion National Forest Campgrounds
86%
11 ratings · 1 review
Recommends
· February 2018
FREE. No connections, but well-marked sites, and a sketchy outhouse. Old abandoned fire tower marks the spot. Several trails leading out of the camp. Close to McClellanville (historic shrimping community). Close to Charleston.
James W.
8 years on Hipcamp
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