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Francis Marion National Forest

The best camping in Francis Marion National Forest, SC

86% (11)

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

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Stories from the community

Kirsten

6 days ago

22 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Bird Song

Loved how close this place was to literally everything! This spot is close to the plantations, 25 minutes to City Market, and 30 to Folly Beach. We camped here over Thanksgiving weekend and had dinner with family in Summerville. Thanks to this spot’s prime location, we were able to turn the weekend into a mini vacation!! The spot was clean and level. All amenities worked well. The fire pit, chairs, and table are all clean, sturdy, and cozy. Neighbors were all quiet and respectful. We saw ducks, geese, squirrels, and an adorable raccoon. Of note: This is in a residential neighborhood. It would be tight for someone with a larger RV/there are some low hanging trees depending on the direction you come/go. There is also some road noise/nighttime outdoor lights. These things are obviously to be expected and are not negatives - just mentioning for awareness of future campers.

Nora

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Camp on the Creek

Frances’s tent sites are nothing short of magical. They sit right on the edge of a beautiful saltwater marsh where you can watch redfish feeding, dolphins playing, and the most glorious sunrises you’ll ever see. The natural splendor of the place is only outshined by Frances herself; warm, welcoming, and genuinely hospitable. She makes you feel at home from the moment you arrive. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic, and memorable camping experience, this is the spot. Truly a gem.

Our Airstream, nestled by our creek with a cozy outdoor sitting area.

Greg

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Creekside Airstream Glamping!

Very cozy right next to the creek. Everything was perfect!

Bob

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

5 nights at Camp on the Creek

Beautiful location with a wonderful view of the water. Lots of coastal birds! Frances has a little corner of paradise here. I enjoyed my time staying at her hip camp, and Frances was a wonderful host.

Lisa

2 weeks ago

21 ft Class C

4 nights at Bird Song

Bird Song was perfect! Lovely, quiet neightborhood. Level for your RV with new hookups. Beautiful trees. It was everything we love about RV camping

Jamese

2 weeks ago

24 ft travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Hanscombe Point Plantation

Wow! Stunning views of an endless pasture lined with pines and live oaks. Loved waking up to cows peacefully grazing just outside the bus. Thank you for sharing your farm with the Hipcamp community!

Jess

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

2 nights at Isla Mas Afuera

I really enjoyed my stay here. Scott is a wonderful host. The site was easy to get into, very well taken care of, and private. The location is central & convenient to everything nearby. It is truly a haven for camping in an area that has otherwise been gentrified & built up. Thank you for the hospitality, Scott! Looking forward to another stay.

Susan

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hanscombe Point Plantation

I loved walking in the wide open spaces, visit with the animals. Campsite comfortable. Did not see any WaterBuffalo and was looking forward to this

Craig

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Edisto River Luxury RV Resort

Incredible property, well manicured sites. This was a peaceful camping trip and Dustin was a five star host. Very responsive to any questions, and made our trip memorable. This is a top tier camp site with clean, well-maintained amenities, and quiet!

Christine

3 weeks ago

12 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Hanscombe Point Plantation

Simple pull in and plug in for inexpensive overnight hookup.

3 weeks ago

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Beach Days & Marsh Nights – RV Spot

John and Kristen's place was very quiet. We also loved that it wasn't smoke filled at night like camping in a campground since my husband has asthma. We love Charleston. The location was convenient to everything.

robert

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hanscombe Point Plantation

beautiful place wonderful hosts fellow campers very considerate will go back againn

kayleigh

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hanscombe Point Plantation

Absolutely amazing, stayed here 3 times total, and it’s beautiful and so peaceful, you get to see beautiful wildlife and nature. I will be making this a regular spot.

Catie

November 2025

With pets

14 nights at Secluded Camper

This place was fantastic! It was super easy to get to, the property was beautiful, and the camper was perfect and spotless. Darren is a wonderful host; he communicated well and made sure I had everything I needed. He even found a car key that I lost on the property and messaged me to let me know he'd set it aside for me. Amazing experience all around!

Rya

November 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Beach Days & Marsh Nights – RV Spot

We really enjoyed our experience with Kristen. The space was easy to back into, peaceful, and enjoyable. We were there for a wedding so we didn’t get to take advantage of any of their offerings but we loved that they had them. Will definitely stay again!!

Paula

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Camp on the Creek

Fran and Stella were great hostesses! The dock and the views were restive, a perfect change of pace. We're looking forward to doing that again!

Donnie

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Edisto River Luxury RV Resort

Truly a hidden gem. My daughter and I had a daddy/daughter weekend while mom was away for work. It was the most relaxing trip, very peaceful with the exception of some people doing what I assume was target practice for awhile. The site was excellent. We spent most of the time in the gazebo watching movies. The hot tub is different than pictured and is an inflatable one. Make sure it's on and running when you get there. Very nice bathroom and OUTDOOR shower. I already have another trip planned in a a few months. Dustin was excellent with communication and always responded very quickly.

Kera

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Edisto River Luxury RV Resort

This place was magical. Dustin was so kind, accommodating, and responded to questions very quickly. Site 2 has a hot tub that was perfect! Everything is clean. Perfect "glamping" location with landscaping all around you. We loved relaxing in the gazebo, spending time outdoors without losing the luxuries usually found indoors, like tv and fridge. Little to no insects. Cobblestone fire pit. Beautiful lighting and romantic atmosphere. Kayaks for use. Washer/dryer and laundry soap were provided. My husband was obsessed with the outdoor shower. I was grateful for the warm, clean, gorgeous bathroom. We went for a late evening stroll, and the fairy lights and trails were beautiful. We were truly impressed! We WILL be back!

Julia

October 2025

26 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Bird Song

Easy to back in. Plenty of room. Level left to right. Friendly host. In a quiet neighborhood. Rode bicycle in neighborhood streets about a mile to pick up takeout grilled mussel sandwiches. Minimal traffic. Nice to be away from an RV park ! Full hookup!

Austin

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Tiger Corner

I spent a few days tent camping and hunting. The property is easy to access and has plenty of space. It’s a super quiet area in the middle of the National Forest. Enjoyed clear skies, plenty of stars, and good communication from the host.

Top public campgrounds in the park

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.

100%

(1)

Elmwood Recreation Area

12mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Francis Marion National Forest

Intracoastal Waterway at Buck Hall Recreation Area

92%

(6)

Buck Hall Recreation Area and Campground

11mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Francis Marion National Forest

Hellhole Bay Wilderness Campground

3.9mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 1 site · in Francis Marion National Forest

83%

(3)

Honey Hill Recreation Area

6.1mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Francis Marion National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Kidogo Farms

92%

(36)

28mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 8 sites · Lodging · Georgetown, SC

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.

Summerville RV Site

97%

(17)

31mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 3 sites · RVs · Ladson, 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. This property does not offer electricity. Water and septic is available.

Creekside Airstream Glamping!

96%

(12)

33mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Charleston, SC

We bought this Airstream in 2022 as an old shell. It was junky and a mess, and not much in it other than old scraps and junk. We renovated it in 2022 and 2023, and turned it into a cozy, midcentury modern style Glamper. We tried to plan for every comfort you could want or need, from wifi and a smart TV, to a cute bathroom, Keurig and an Air Fryer. We hope you love it as much as we do. Please note, it is tight quarters, especially for more than two people and large framed people. For this reason, we only allow two guests. We live on a busy street, but the backyard is peaceful and serene. The airstream is parked next to our creek, where waterfowl abound. Only one vehicle allowed.

Beach Days & Marsh Nights – RV Spot

100%

(17)

36mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 1 site · RV · Charleston, SC

Tucked in a quiet neighborhood along the marsh, this private RV spot offers the perfect mix of stillness and coastal adventure. Whether you're looking to slow down or soak it all in, you’re just minutes from Folly Beach and a short drive into Charleston—making it easy to dip into both saltwater and city life. Start your morning with coffee overlooking the marsh, launch a kayak right from the backyard, or pack up your beach gear and head out for a day on the sand. Want an effortless beach day? We’ve got chairs, tents, coolers, boogie boards, games, and sand toys ready to go so you can travel light and play hard—just let us know what you’d like and we’ll have it waiting for you. Back at the site, unwind in your private outdoor lounge area, walk the neighborhood to watch the sun drop over the marsh, or book an evening by the fire pit for an exclusive saltwater lake front night under the stars. While this isn't a hidden forest getaway, it’s one of the closest RV-accessible spots to the beach—with the bonus of marshfront beauty and some thoughtful extras to elevate your experience.

Hanscombe Point Plantation

95%

(633)

40mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!

Bells Marina & Resort Eutawville SC

95%

(21)

40mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 17 sites · Tents · 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. 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!

Edisto River Luxury RV Resort

100%

(206)

46mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. 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.

Camp on the Creek

98%

(80)

47mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 3 sites · Tents · Wadmalaw Island, SC

I found my 10 acres 18 years ago, cleared a road and moved a little camper onto the property. During the next year my home, barn and dock were built. I have 2 tent camping areas for rent with a view of the Leadenwah Creek. There is 1 large fire pit area which is shared if both sites are occupied. My sweet lab, Stella, lives outside mostly, so she will be around and loves to visit the campers. This is a NO SMOKING property.

Herd It Here Farm

100%

(38)

48mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 5 sites · RVs · 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...

Isla Mas Afuera

95%

(44)

48mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Edisto Camp And Canoe

100%

(22)

45mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 3 sites · Ridgeville, SC

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).

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Tiger Corner

100%

(3)

2.7mi from Francis Marion National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Jamestown, SC

Forty-five acre timber farm with 4 primitive camp sites for tent or RV camping. The land boarders Francis Marion National forest and has an abundance of wild life . It is 41 miles from Charleston SC and 35 miles to isle of palms beaches. The property and surrounding area offers an abundance of activities. 1. Walk/hike trails through the timber farm and forest 2. Fish for bass and brim at pond on farm or SCDNR stocked pond less than 1/4 mile away 3. Hunt on farm - permission required 4. Bring your boat! Launch at nearby Buck Hall Landing (20min), Garris Landing (20min), or Paradise Island Boat Landing (25 min) 5. Birds of Prey Center: get up close and personal with Falcons, Eagles, and other raptors 6. Bulls Island Ferry: Eco Tours to Bulls sland Sanctuary 7. Seewee Visitor & Environmental Education enter: see the endangered Red Wolves, feeding is every Saturday 8. Historic McClellanville village shops & restaurants, famous for their local shrimp 9. Cape Romain Wildlife Refuge 10. Charleston Zip Line Adventures 11. Cycling/Road Bikes: the Awendaw Loop, a popular 26.2 mile cycle route through the National Forest starts here 12. Bring your mountain bike/motorcycle/atv, the Wambaw Cycle Trail is 5 mile up the road 13. Twin Ponds Rifle Range is a 10 miles away.

The best camping in Francis Marion National Forest, SC 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.

86%

11 ratings · 1 review

Recommends

· February 2018

Honey Hill Recreation Area

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.