Boondocking in South Carolina

By RVshare
Boondocking

The question of where to go boondocking in South Carolina has many answers. You may wish to visit the small Blue Ridge region in the northwest corner of the state or the gently rolling hills of the Piedmont region with its beautiful orchards. There is also the Sandhills region with its opportunities to go white-water rafting and hiking as well as the intercoastal area, which offers an excellent opportunity to explore forests. If you are a water lover, you will want to visit the coastal zone since it is home to wonderful cities that you can explore, including Myrtle Beach. 

Below are some of our favorite South Carolina boondocking spots. 

Boondocking Sites in South Carolina

Bobcat Boat Landing

Head to the end of County Road 439 near Bamberg, South Carolina, to reach the Bobcat Boat Landing. This camping spot offers easy access to the one-lane boat ramp to launch a vessel onto the South Fork of the Edisto River. If you are looking to go kayaking with a group, contact the Bamberg County Chamber of Commerce as they often organize trips starting at this location. 

Halfway Creek Trailhead

Halfway Creek Trailhead is located in the beautiful Francis Marion National Forest in Charleston County. Really, it is just a parking lot at the trailhead, but it is an easy and convenient place to park an RV. You do need a permit to camp here, so be sure to snag that before you head out.

Bring along your bike to ride on the unpaved paths or don your boots to check out one of numerous hiking opportunities in the area. As far as amenities go, there aren’t many, but you will find a hand pump for water. 

Honey Hill Recreation Area

The campsites at Honey Hill Recreation Area between McClellanville and Honey Hill are in the Francis Marion National Forest. There are several designated campsites available at this site, and many are large enough to accommodate a medium-sized rig, making this a good spot for RVers who travel in something bigger than a van.

Drinking water is available at this location, as are picnic tables. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking on the nearby trails. 

Elmwood Recreation Area

Elmwood Recreation Area near Charleston offers free camping in South Carolina. Like others on this list, this campground is in the Francis Marion National Forest. This particular campground is in the Waterhorn Hunting Unit. 

There are no designated campsites, but people do a decent job of keeping their space and the site can fit relatively large RVs. As far as amenities go, spigot water and a vault toilet are available. 

Grapevine Campground

Grapevine Campground is in Sumter National Forest near Mt. Rest. This campground offers no services, but is well maintained and in a good location. Sites are small, best suited for tear drop campers and camper vans. 

You can hike and fish in this forest, which is located very near the Atlantic coastline, and the escape into nature is sure to be refreshing. 

Where to Boondock in South Carolina

  • When camping in South Carolina, Francis Marion National Forest is an excellent pick.
  • Sumter National Forest also has some wonderful boondocking spots. 
  • Some of the state’s wildlife management areas offer boondocking opportunities. 
  • You’ll also find free overnight parking at a number of rest areas, Walmart stores, and Cracker Barrel locations if you just need a quick rest. 


There are many great reasons to go boondocking in South Carolina. It is easier to pack all you need to bring along when you have an RV. If you do not have your own, rent one at RVshare.

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