Camping can open up a whole world of new opportunities for unplugging and getting outside to play. In days gone by, camping was considered a super affordable way to escape for a fun-filled yet relaxing family weekend. However, over the years, even the cost of renting a campsite seems to have soared. That’s likely because campgrounds have begun to compete by adding all sorts of amenities – and raising their prices to pay for them. You won’t run into that issue at these affordable campsites and campgrounds in South Carolina (there are some places for FREE camping in South Carolina). What’s more, these nine glorious campsites don’t require a reservation. Sweet!

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The Palmetto State has some great spots to unplug and go camping in South Carolina. This list has a lot of options and hopefully, you found one that you really love, especially if it’s free camping in South Carolina! If not, then you can always check out others that are listed on the U.S. Forest Service website. Need some camping gear? Check out the fun stuff from our friends at The North Face.

If you love to camp, then where are your favorite campgrounds in South Carolina? We’d love to know in our comments. Do you prefer to know if you have reservations and a few more amenities when you camp? Check out these beachside campgrounds in South Carolina.

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Free Camping In South Carolina

What are some of the best campgrounds in South Carolina?

Many of the best campgrounds in South Carolina are located in state parks.

  • In the mountains, Devils Fork State Park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The park offers two campgrounds, including a paddle-in campground that's a bit rustic and primitive in comparison to the campground that can accommodate RVs and trailers.
  • On the other hand, when seeking a camping spot on the beach, four South Carolina state parks are located right on the coast and offer ocean-side camping where you'll wake to the swift ocean breeze and a sunrise over the ocean.
  • For visitors who love chasing waterfalls, Jones Gap State Park has trails that lead to spectacular waterfalls, including the tallest in the state.

 

Are you allowed to camp in state parks?

South Carolina's many state parks offer a variety of camping opportunities and many also offer cabin rentals. The cabins range from rustic cottages along the beach to rugged mountain cabins along lakes and rivers, and even roundette cabins located over the lake at Santee State Park.

What are some of the things I need to take on a camping trip?

When preparing for a camping trip, it's important to create a checklist of items to pack. Essential camping gear for tent camping includes:

  • A tent (of course)
  • Lanterns
  • A flashlight
  • Rain gear
  • A dry pair of shoes (for when it rains)
  • Bug spray to ward off mosquitoes and noseeums
  • Sunscreen
  • Tin foil for cooking over an open flame or a grill
  • Matches or a lighter
  • Garbage bags
  • Kitchen utensils for cooking and eating
  • Food and beverage
  • It also helps if you have an air mattress, unless, of course, you prefer sleeping on the ground.

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