The best camping in Sumter National Forest, SC

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88% (13)

Explore the vast South Carolina wilderness on foot, by bike, or by boat 

88% (13)

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

Top-rated campgrounds in Sumter National Forest

Burrells Ford Camping

1. Burrells Ford Camping

100%
(3)
Campground in Sumter National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come one, come all—especially if you’re frugal
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Big Bend Campground

2. Big Bend Campground

100%
(2)
Campground in Sumter National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
For primitive camping near a waterfall, Big Bend Campground has got you covered
Cherry Hill Campground

3. Cherry Hill Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Sumter National Forest · 29 sites · Tents, RVs
Hankering for a summer camping trip where you can beat the heat? Head to the sparkling waters of Butte Creek and camp along its banks at Chery Hill Campground in groves of pines
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Woodall Shoals

4. Woodall Shoals

100%
(1)
Campground in Sumter National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
We hope you’re ready to get a little wet—Woodall Shoals Campground provides the perfect home base for kayaking through the rapids of Chattooga River
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Brick House Campground

5. Brick House Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Sumter National Forest · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
Hike, bike, hunt, horseback ride, and just straight up chill to your heart’s content at Brick House Campground
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Sedalia Campground

6. Sedalia Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Sumter National Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Rejoice, thirst-quenched campers
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area

7. Lick Fork Lake Recreation Area

100%
(1)
Campground in Sumter National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Lick Fork Lake Recreational is easily an outdoor landscape worth salivating over
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Parsons Mountain Recreation Area

8. Parsons Mountain Recreation Area

100%
(1)
Campground in Sumter National Forest · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
If solitude fits you like a well-used glove, then look no further than Parsons Mountain Recreation Area
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Cassidy Bridge Hunt Camp

9. Cassidy Bridge Hunt Camp

Campground in Sumter National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Coming for big-game and turkey hunting season? Cassidy Bridge Hunt Camp could be the perfect place to bed down
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Double Branch Campground

10. Double Branch Campground

Campground in Sumter National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
This is off-the-beaten path camping at it’s best
Fall Creek Campground

11. Fall Creek Campground

Campground in Sumter National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
A mile east of the Chattooga River, you can set up camp at Fall Creek Campground, a primitive area in a quiet, secluded part of this forest
Long Bottom Ford Campground

12. Long Bottom Ford Campground

Campground in Sumter National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
An enigmatic string of primitive campsites, Long Bottom Ford Campground offers it’s campers a rustic, no frills experience
Rocky Branch Seasonal Camp

13. Rocky Branch Seasonal Camp

Campground in Sumter National Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Rocky Branch Seasonal Camp is abundant with both migratory and resident fauna, populating the confines in between the towering, aromatic pines
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Woods Ferry Recreation Area

14. Woods Ferry Recreation Area

Campground in Sumter National Forest · 38 sites · Tents, RVs
Comely situated within the wooded floodplains of Chester County, Woods Ferry Recreation Area is an oasis for any outdoorsman (or woman)
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Fell Camp

15. Fell Camp

Campground in Sumter National Forest · 66 sites
Smoked from the barrels of euphonious gun-fire, Fell Camp is—like many of Sumter National Forest’s heavily vegetative areas—well-liked by the, shall we say, “packing” niche among us
Collins Creek Seasonal Camp

16. Collins Creek Seasonal Camp

Campground in Sumter National Forest · 43 sites · Tents, RVs
Strung together by just three temporal campgrounds, Collins Creek Seasonal Campground features excellent migratory bird watching
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
King Creek Campground

17. King Creek Campground

Campground in Sumter National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Creekside camping without the fuss and frills of a large, popular campground

Top-rated campsites near Sumter National Forest

Pheonix meadows

1. Pheonix meadows

95%
(20)
15mi from Sumter National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Come join us on our little slice of heaven on earth! Activities include stargazing, wildlife viewing, hiking, or just chill and grill by the creek! Rv’s and campers may set up in the field. Tent and car campers are welcome to set up alongside the creek! The field sites offer wonderful sunset views and starlit night skies! The creek side site offers a picnic table, grill, and the peaceful serenity and sounds of an old growth forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp Clatworthy

2. Camp Clatworthy

95%
(267)
17mi from Sumter National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Free use of kayaks and a canoe on an undeveloped 18 acre lake is included when you camp here. Several miles of trails, dirt roads and streams wind through hundreds of acres which you are free to explore. The property has been owned by members of our family for 75 years or more with areas of it family-owned since the 1800's. A large portion of the property is dedicated to sustainable loblolly pine forests dating back to the 1980's. A significant area of the property is dedicated to native hardwood forest and has some of the oldest and largest white oak, poplar, elm and shortleaf pines in the upstate. The remainder of the property is pasture; home to Black Angus cattle. We look forward to sharing this unique property with you!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Serenity on the Saluda

3. Serenity on the Saluda

99%
(180)
18mi from Sumter National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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. There is a one mile hiking path around the property. I sell firewood so please DO NOT CUT LIVE TREES!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mountain Creek Campground LLC

4. Mountain Creek Campground LLC

100%
(21)
19mi from Sumter National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Currently 1 New Campsite operable with Full hookup. 28 Milles from Downtown Greenville. 13 Miles from Lake Rabon Park. 3.5 miles from Gray Court Dollar General and gas stations. 5 Miles from I385. 15 Miles from Walmart, Target, Publix in Simpsonville SC. 11 Miles from Downtown Fountain Inn. Secluded, quiet, site 150 yards from the road surrounded by trees. Natural wildlife around with good possibilities of deer sightings on occasion. ⚠️ PLEASE NOTE::: When you are on Georgia Road. GPS will tell you to turn on Mickey Thomas Drive. Do not follow that detail. If you are entering from the town of Gray Court, the campsite entrance is the next driveway AFTER Mickey Thomas drive. See last 3 photos for reference of entrance location. Feel free to email me at Rusty.satterfield@gmail.com
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Primitive riverside camping

5. Primitive riverside camping

100%
(63)
27mi from Sumter National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land:One can expect a wonderful wilderness experience at Earthganic Farm’s riverside camping. The path down to the sites is drivable in a truck, SUV, or van. There’s always the option to park up at the house and walk down (it’s a ten minute walk from the house to the river) and if you let us know ahead of time, we can bring your camping stuff down for you. We have two single kayaks that we rent for $15/day and you can put them in right on property and kayak up and down the river. There are walking/dirt biking trails through pine forest and nice hardwoods down by the river. The brave can take dips in the river. Just down the street there is a boat access ramp for canoes, kayaks, and flat bottom boats.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

6. Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

96%
(192)
28mi from Sumter National Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC is a private lodging establishment offering short term sites to campers, transient guest and outdoor enthusiast who desire rest, relaxation and recreation. The fringe land is old farm land now being repurposed for outdoor activities. The RV Park is the developed part of an old Farm planted in pines bordering Big Creek/Lake Murray.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
3 Creeks Camp and Nature Preserve

7. 3 Creeks Camp and Nature Preserve

96%
(258)
29mi from Sumter National Forest · 8 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Leach Homestead campground

8. Leach Homestead campground

96%
(63)
31mi from Sumter National Forest · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Leach Homestead, where 50 acres of rolling hills, peaceful forests, open fields, and tranquil ponds await. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, or reconnect with nature, our property offers a little something for everyone. Enjoy fishing in our stocked ponds or spend the day at the sandy beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles. Winding trails weave throughout the property, ideal for hiking or riding. We offer primitive campsites for those who love a rustic outdoor experience and a cozy on-site apartment with a private bathroom and shower for guests who prefer the comforts of home. Friendly pets are always welcome. We’re excited to now offer four brand-new RV sites, each equipped with 50-amp, 30-amp, and 110 electric hookups, water access, and we now have direct sewer hookups. These easy-access back-in sites are available for short stays or long-term bookings. For you golf enthusiasts, Persimmon Hill golf course is 2 miles down the street from here. Guests are also invited to enjoy complimentary kayak use or rent our of our side by side for an added adventure. History enthusiasts will appreciate that Mine Creek, which runs through the property, played a role in Civil War history. Visit https://www.carolana.com/SC/Revolution/revolution_mine_creek.html to learn more. You’ll find several historical markers throughout the surrounding area. Visit our website for more details about the property: www.leachhomestead.com
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Eagles Landing

9. Eagles Landing

100%
(45)
33mi from Sumter National Forest · 2 sites
This stunning 1-acre gated property features two sites overlooking a serene 17-acre pond, complete with private beach and boat ramp. The boat ramp and pond are large enough to accommodate a sizable Jon boat. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, fire pit, electric, water, and septic connections. Enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing and creating lasting memories. Please note, tent camping not permitted.
Pets
Full hookups
We are a brewery located on a farm.

10. We are a brewery located on a farm.

91%
(81)
36mi from Sumter National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:We have 20 taps at the brewery and a full kitchen. We smoke wings and BBQ as well as do pizza, salad, and Mac n cheese. We have an 18 hole disc golf course, fishing pond, outdoor stage, and garden.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Prices Bridge Inn & Campgrounds

11. Prices Bridge Inn & Campgrounds

97%
(65)
37mi from Sumter National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
We have an absolutely gorgeous 12 acres of mostly wooded and/or lakefront land on the West end of Lake Murray (Saluda River). Me, my wife, and three kids live and work on a 20 acre forest nestled in the backwaters of Lake Murray. Behind Prices Bridge, we have what nature lovers refer to "OH MY GAWD"... Our land forms a peninsula, which is very private, secluded, and SAFE. If you want to refresh, recharge or spend quality time with family or friends, we'd love to host you. *Prices Bridge being a low bridge also means if you bring a large boat you may need to use the marina or any of the free boat launches within a mile of our site... kayaks, canoes, john boats all fit under. :-)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp Moondog

12. Camp Moondog

98%
(236)
41mi from Sumter National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Greenville Camping Near Paris Mtn

13. Greenville Camping Near Paris Mtn

93%
(22)
45mi from Sumter National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Cozy campsite on the back of our property. We are in a suburban area, within Greenville city limits. We are less than 5 minutes from the entrance to Paris Mountain State Park which boasts amazing hiking, fishing, and mountain biking. Our property is situated along a popular cyclist route and only five miles to downtown Greenville. Be sure to bring your bike! Excellent location if you are trying to camp close to the city, but also want to be close to an amazing state park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp@Castaway/Lake Hartwell 410&412

14. Camp@Castaway/Lake Hartwell 410&412

100%
(11)
46mi from Sumter National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp at Castaway – Your Lake Hartwell Getaway! Relax and unwind at Camp at Castaway, featuring spacious, level pull-through campsites perfect for RV travelers exploring beautiful Lake Hartwell. Our peaceful sites offer the ideal blend of nature and convenience. Located just ¼ mile from Broyles Landing and Recreation Area, you’ll enjoy easy access to three boat ramps, a sandy beach area, a children’s playground, and a fishing pier—perfect for boating, swimming, and lakeside fun. You’ll also be just a short drive from both Clemson and Anderson, making it easy to enjoy local restaurants, shopping, and events. Campground Features: Spacious level pull-through RV sites Full hookups Private fire pit for relaxing evenings Small creek behind the property within walking distance Quiet, scenic setting near the lake Site Locations: Site 1: 410 Hattons Ford Road Site 2: 412 Hattons Ford Road Townville, SC Whether you're planning a fishing trip, lake weekend, Clemson game day stay, or a peaceful camping retreat, Camp at Castaway is the perfect home base.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Russell's Ranch RV Site

15. Russell's Ranch RV Site

97%
(19)
48mi from Sumter National Forest · 1 site
We offer 50/30/20 amp electricity, water, and sewer hookups. Enjoy a campfire with free wood to burn. Pets are welcome. Enjoy close proximity to Easley's dining and amenities. We are the first house just outside the city of Easley, South Carolina. Some suggestions would be The Silos, Tropical Burger, The Smokin' Pig, The Pint Station, and Merrell's Pizza.
Pets
Full hookups
FF Get A Way

16. FF Get A Way

97%
(16)
49mi from Sumter National Forest · 1 site
We are on 3 acres at the base of Paris mountain, only 2 miles outside Travelers Rest, but it feels like you're in the middle of no where. 15 minutes to Greenville, 6 miles to Furman University, and right on one of the main bicycling roads. We have an on site private workout studio with plenty of equipment, including bike trainers (in case it's raining). There are lots of chickens on site so you can have free range eggs.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Scotland Pond

17. Scotland Pond

97%
(97)
50mi from Sumter National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: Secluded 16 acre woodlands near a an acre pond, with a dam.  You can fish, and observe wildlife on the property . It’s a quick drive off the gravel road to campsite. Picnic table and fire ring provided. This is a taste of country near a small town, with the best of both worlds , and  you will hear cows and trains. It’s 5 miles to the nearest grocery store. Short drive to Table Rock and Paris Mountain State parks, Jocassee , and Keowee Lakes. Close to the Blue Ridge Parkway for Motorcycle rides or hiking. Our motto is “ Leave No Trace” , so please don’t cut down trees, or burn pallets. ****** We are a Certified Wildlife Habitat and are also partnering with Hipcamp and The Xerces Society to increase habitats for pollinators . We just started working with Clemson Fisheries students to stock the pond and make it a healthy habitat ***** Cars, regular size trucks, and vans are welcome.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
MONTANA AVENUE LAKESIDE CAMPGROUND ....

18. MONTANA AVENUE LAKESIDE CAMPGROUND ....

50%
(3)
4.8mi from Sumter National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
MONTANA AVENUE LAKESIDE CAMPGROUND Located on Lake Greenwood, South Carolina. We have 5 Sites Lakeside, WIFI AVAILABLE, FULL HOOK UPS 50 and 30AMP Community Dock, Great Fishing, very private. Great place for a Private Weekend with Partner or Fun Weekend with Family. Campers catch nice fish right off the Dock. Safe place for Kiddos and Family Free Paddle Boat Fun for Campers MONTHLY RATES Available WIFI, water, sewage, garbage, lake access Camper pays own power if an Extended Stay Plan. ..ALL SITES ARE METERED.. We purchased this property approximately 20 years ago just to have a nice quiet place to go on weekends to relax. We were in Construction Business and just needed to escape phones and doorbells. We've been here ever since. Love the serenity and Lake. A wonderful Private place to escape and enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. You drive thru the woods about 1400 lf and come out at Beautiful Lake Greenwood. Campers catch nice fish right off the Dock. Safe place for Kiddos and Family.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Barrett Farm

19. Barrett Farm

14mi from Sumter National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This is a beautiful pasture that sits back behind home. It is fenced in and sits beside another pasture that has 4 cows. There is also chickens house on a separate pasture. It is private and away from the traffic and noise of city. There are stores and gas close by, and several major towns within 20 minutes from sites. There is no water or sewer on site, but there is water available at home to fill rv fresh water tank.
Pets
Campfires
Water Oak RV Park

20. Water Oak RV Park

17mi from Sumter National Forest · 5 sites
Your peaceful retreat in the upstate of South Carolina Nestled just off Hwy 76 East and only 2 miles from downtown Clinton, Water Oak RV Park is your perfect getaway in the Upstate. Whether you’re stopping by for the weekend or settling in for a longer stay, our spacious and tranquil environment ensures you feel right at home. Spanning over 12 acres of open space, including 5 acres of pure green space, Water Oak is more than just a place to park. It is a place to unwind. Our sites are intentionally roomy because no one likes being elbow to awning with their neighbour, and we pride ourselves on maintaining a quiet, relaxing atmosphere for all guests. Whether you’re here for a weekend adventure or a longer escape, Water Oak RV Park is your peaceful home base in the heart of the Upstate
Pets
Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Sumter National Forest camping guide

Overview

About

Indulge your inner adventurer at this wild and scenic national forest. With activities including whitewater rafting, biking, hiking, and hunting, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Plus, thanks to South Carolina’s mild weather, you can get out year-round.

An extensive trail system makes it a breeze to get out into the wilderness. Mountain bike down steep hills, or enjoy well-maintained hiking trails through the trees. The Ellicott Rock Wilderness and the Hellhole Bay Wilderness are particularly interesting for hiking. For rafting, head straight for the Chattooga River.

Throughout the year, you’ll find organized events around the forest lands. The fantastic Sewee Visitor and Environmental Education Center keeps kids entertained. Other events include fishing rodeos and hunting events.

With both dispersed and developed camping options, there are plenty of places to sleep. Bringing an RV? The campgrounds in Cherry Hill Recreation Area and Whetstone Horse Camp are your best bet.

Reviews for Sumter National Forest Campgrounds

88%
13 ratings · 8 reviews
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