The best camping near Francis Marion National Forest

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

92% (6 reviews)

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

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Francis Marion National Forest

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Public campgrounds in the park
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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.

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Elmwood Recreation Area

2 sites · RVs, Tents In Francis Marion National Forest

Hellhole Bay Wilderness Campground

1 site In Francis Marion National Forest

Intracoastal Waterway at Buck Hall Recreation Area

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(3)

Buck Hall Recreation Area and Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents In Francis Marion National Forest

Honey Hill Recreation Area

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Francis Marion National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Francis Marion National Forest

96%

(452)

Hanscombe Point Plantation

12 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · 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!

98%

(127)

Gathering Grounds

49 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Ridgeville, SC

LOCATED IN BEAUTIFUL RIDGEVILLE, South Carolina. LESS than an hour from Historic Charleston and 20 minutes from beautiful Summerville. Natural Gathering Grounds is a Forest School and Waldorf inspired camp ground and natural learning environment. This eco-retreat facility is located on 53 acres with a growing family farm, fishing ponds, walking trails, archery, tent camping, gardening, craft/activity centerand 900 feet of the Edisto River. Our summer campsare offered weekly and daily. Camps focus on interaction and appreciation for the natural world. Our mission is to inspire wonder and encourage discovery while making meaningful connections in a natural environment. Come experience freedom, tranquility, and exploration here in the beautiful Lowcountry. Located minutes from Givhans Ferry State Park - 16 miles from Summerville. Visit Natural Gathering Grounds!

96%

(14)

Suburban Folly Beach Get-Away

1 site · RV1 acre · Charleston, SC

Experience tranquility less than 2 miles from the iconic Folly Beach, where you can stay in a peaceful neighborhood on a quiet street. Spend your days enjoying the beach, and your evenings by the firepit. Downtown Charleston is less than 20 minutes away, or you can unwind in the privacy of the fenced backyard. Your host is dedicated to ensuring your stay is splendid and accommodating.

Booked 1 time

Diamond in the ruff

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Awendaw, SC

Learn more about this land:The is a rustic off grid RV. It has a clean smelling compost toilet. A camping shower. Bring your boat, the boat landing is a minute away. Isle of palm and restaurants and shopping is 15 minutes away. If you are coming for a relaxing getaway the is the spot. Bikes are on the property and a huge succulent garden. Grill for cooking. You will love the comfortable bed. This location is for couples who need a cozy get away.

94%

(32)

Kidogo Farms

8 sites · Lodging26 acres · 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.

91%

(11)

Isla Mas Afuera

3 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · 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.

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Edisto River Luxury RV Resort

2 sites · RVs4 acres · Cottageville, 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. 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.

84%

(29)

The Powell's Place

42 sites · Tents14 acres · Cottageville, SC

14 acres wooded plenty deer 'n wildlife along with some small farm animals. Bikers and pets welcome.Learn more about this land:Secluded 14 acres quiet shade trees and sun. Access to public boat landing 2miles, all are welcome including bikers. As much space as you like pitch your tent anywhere you like, enjoy fire barrels in the evenings along with a cold beer and music if you choose. Animals welcome. :) 843-835-2645 cell 843-542_5793

98%

(21)

Ted P.’s Land

10 sites · Tents70 acres · Wadmalaw Island, SC

Learn more about this land:We’ve got more Spanish Moss than you can shake a stick at - and we’ve got plenty of those too! While we lack ocean-side beach front, we do have spectacular views of the Wadmalaw river, particularly under a full moon and especially at sunset (we face west by southwest). We're offering approximately 60 acres of primitive hiking and campsites: areas for all levels of camping experience available.You can have a camping experience from literal back yard camping, to a serious “lost in the woods” adventure. Despite the near-by civilization, on clear nights there is very little light contamination - which makes for excellent star gazing.Campfires are allowed within local regulations. Pets are welcome!We are less than twenty miles from historic downtown Charleston, around twenty miles from Charleston’s shopping and commerce area (West Ashley), and just over twenty miles from Kiawah Island Resort and beaches.

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Bells Marina & Resort

16 sites · Lodging, RVs6 acres · 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. 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!

Booked 1 time

Summerville Tents

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Lincolnville, 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. Perfect for small groups that want to set up activities on the land. I live beside the property in a hoa with a miles of walking and beautiful ponds. Hiking trails within a couple minute drive. Historical downtown Summerville also a couple minute drive.

90%

(5)

Charleston Retreat

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Charleston, SC

Private protected neighborhood walking distance to restaurants, greenway and park. Charleston beaches are 15 minutes away along with Charleston charming historic district, Restaurants, pubs, beaches, biking trails, boat rentals, Charleston harbor tours. Abundance of nature trails nearby for exploring.,

The best camping near Francis Marion National Forest 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.