South Carolina boasts an abundance of fantastic camping destinations. Whether you prefer the coast and want to relax at a seaside camping resort for a week, or you’d rather enjoy a cozy cabin in one of our state parks, the options are plentiful. Plus, camping doesn’t have to break the bank! We’ve compiled a list of some of the top campgrounds located on federal lands across the Palmetto State—each available for $28 or less per night. This represents some of the best budget camping experiences in South Carolina! Keep reading to discover these great spots!
1. Buck Hall Recreation Area & Boat Landing – McClellanville ($20)
Nestled along the scenic Intracoastal waterways and marshlands, Buck Hall offers an excellent camping experience for tents, RVs, and other camping setups. It’s perfectly situated for those looking to use it as a home base for adventures in the Francis Marion National Forest or exploring nearby urban areas. The charming city of Charleston is just 30 miles to the southwest, while the historic town of Georgetown lies just a short drive to the north. Buck Hall welcomes visitors year-round, and standard camping sites are affordably priced at only $20 per night, with a slightly higher fee for RV sites, making it a budget-friendly getaway. For additional details about these affordable camping options, check the U.S. Forest Service website.
2. Modoc Campground – Modoc ($22-$28)
Escape to Lake Strom Thurmond, located just above the Savannah River dam at Clarks Hill, and enjoy a delightful lakeside retreat at this charming campground. Modoc is an understated treasure that sprawls across two peninsulas along the lake. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the convenience of a launch ramp, while canoe and kayak aficionados will find effortless access to the waters of Lake Strom Thurmond right from the campground. Pricing varies based on whether you opt for a standard electric site or a non-electric option. For additional information about this South Carolina camping spot, which welcomes tent campers, visit the U.S. Forest Service website.
3. Cherry Hill Recreation Area – Walhalla ($15)
Discover a fantastic camping experience right by the untamed Chattooga River. This location offers thrilling activities like rafting and fishing, making it a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts! The campground typically welcomes visitors from early April to late October. Amenities include access to running water, restrooms, and hot showers for added convenience. An overnight stay will cost you just $15. To find out more about this affordable campground, visit the U.S. Forest Service website.
4. Springfield Campground – Anderson ($26)
Springfield, a favored spot for South Carolinians, is open from early April until the start of October. This charming park features a boat ramp, a dock, a designated swimming area, and three playgrounds, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Hartwell. While the nightly camping fee is slightly higher than mentioned in our headline, we believe it’s worth the investment for an enjoyable experience. We hope you feel the same! To learn more, visit the Discover South Carolina website.
5. Twin Lakes Campground – Pendleton ($24-$26)
You’re in for a treat at the Twin Lakes Campground, featuring two stunning beaches along a picturesque lakefront. With nightly rates ranging from $24 to $26, this popular campground tends to fill up quickly, so it’s wise to make reservations ahead of time. For more information, be sure to check out the Discover South Carolina website.
6. Congaree National Park ($10-$25)
Congaree National Park is South Carolina’s sole National Park, featuring two primitive campgrounds for visitors to enjoy. One of these campgrounds, Bluff Campground, requires campers to walk in and carry their gear to the site. Staying overnight here is just $10 per night. The second option, Longleaf Campground, also offers primitive camping amenities, including vaulted toilets and no shower facilities. An overnight stay at Longleaf is priced at $15, with group sites available for $25 per night. For additional information, check out the National Park Service website.
7. Coneross Park – Townville ($18-$26)
Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Hartwell, Coneross Campground is a delightful retreat that welcomes visitors from early May until the end of September. This charming campground features 106 campsites, two boat launches, four playgrounds, and a variety of amenities, making it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers alike. Tent sites without electricity start at an affordable $18 per night, while camping spots with electric hookups begin at $26. For additional information, check out the Discover South Carolina website.
South Carolina offers a diverse range of campgrounds, each with different amenities and pricing options for overnight stays. Have you gone camping recently? We’d love to hear which budget-friendly campgrounds highlighted above are your top picks and the reasons behind your choices. Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
If you’re seeking a unique camping adventure, make sure to check out this fantastic campground and waterpark in South Carolina!