Sure, you know about the popular and beautiful state parks at Table Rock and Jones Gap and Lake Jocassee. And we all know our beloved Paris Mountain. But where else can a person pop a tent or hang a hammock in or near Travelers Rest, SC?
Turns out, Travelers Rest is well situated to facilitate all kinds of outdoor activities and adventures. We are at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with plenty of opportunities to fish and hike and wander the woods. And camp. (And here are just a few reasons why camping is SO good for you!)
We’ve asked our friends and our neighbors and then compiled this list of five lesser-known camping spots near our neck of the woods. For this list, we’ve tried to keep our camping options limited to locations within a one-hour radius of home sweet home, here in Travelers Rest.
1. Mile Creek Park
Over in Six Mile on Lake Keowee, you can discover Mile Creek Park. With over 60 campsites on the picturesque thin peninsula jutting out into the lovely Lake Keowee, you’ll be sure to find a cozy spot for your crew.
Mile Creek provides several comfort stations, multiple playgrounds, and also convenient water access to get on the lake for fishing and boating and swimming.
Location: 757 Keowee Baptist Church Rd. Six Mile, SC 29682
Website: VisitMileCreekPark.com
2. High Falls County Park
Also located on Lake Keowee, High Falls Park boasts more than 90 camp sites, with about 10 of the sites being waterfront. Even if your tent isn’t bunked against the water’s edge, the water activities are nearby and plentiful. Boating and fishing and swimming opportunities abound, and the park even features playgrounds and miniature golf.
Location: 671 High Falls Rd. Seneca, SC 29672
Website: SouthCarolinaParks.com
3. Orchard Lake Campground
Just across the North Carolina border in Saluda lies the family-friendly Orchard Lake Campground. Although there are more RV campsites than tent sites at Orchard Lake, you can still find nearly 20 spots to set up your tent.
At Orchard Lake there are two lakes, with one lake reserved just for catch and release fishing. Popular with families, Orchard Lake has over 50 acres, with trails and a zipline, volleyball, badminton and more — all the classic summer camp activities you might recall from your own childhood days.
Location: 460 Orchard Lake Rd. Saluda, NC 28773
Website: OrchardLakeCampground.com
4. KOA of Travelers Rest and Northern Greenville County
Just minutes outside of the town of Travelers Rest sits a streamside campground operated by the well-known, nationwide KOA organization. Here, you’ll find six tent sites with electricity and water and four primitive sites. Each tent site is situated along the water’s edge for maximum enjoyment.
Location: 2400 Highway 25 Travelers Rest, SC 29690
Website: KOA.com
5. Black Forest Family Camping Resort
Just a few miles from the landmark Caesars Head State Park, you’ll discover this little gem of a camping spot. Located on over 60 acres is a private, secluded campground that feels like a step back in time. The campground offers all the modern-day amenities, however, including a heated swimming pool, a camp store, and a schedule of regular events — such as ice cream socials and pancake breakfasts.
Location: 280 Summer Rd. Cedar Mountain, NC 28718
Website: BlackForestCampground.com
Of course, like so many aspects of what we love about Travelers Rest, there are a bounty of other options. Maybe we missed your favorite little tree-lined oasis. If so, would you mind sharing it with us in the comments below?
Happy camping!
______________________
If you’re looking for more camping options – try these RV campgrounds near you.
