Sumter National Forest
RV Guide
Introduction
Get ready to pack up your motorhome and come to South Carolina for some year-round adventure. Explore Sumter National Forest, which covers three districts of the state: Andrew Pickens, Enoree, and the Long Cane. Sumter National Forest covers over 118,000 acres where you can soak in gorgeous waterfall views or complete a challenging mountain bike trail. Bring your canoe or kayak and get out on the Intercoastal Waterway or a low country swamp.
History buffs will love to hike along the I'on Swamp Interpretive Trail, where they can learn about the wetlands with embankments that date back to the 1700s. If you are bringing the kids, the whole family can gain deeper insight into the history of South Carolina's low country at the Sewee Visitor and Environmental Education Center. Don't forget to walk around the one-mile boardwalk near the Visitor Center, which offers interpretive signs and breathtaking swamp views.
For those who love to hunt, there are nine different rifle ranges to visit during your RV camping trip. Check out Hellhole Bay Wilderness and Elliott Rick Wilderness while your here for your next hunting adventure. Love the water? There are some excellent white water rafting spots along the famous “Deliverance” Chattooga River. There are over a dozen campgrounds for you to choose from at Sumter National Forest. Read on below to find out details on three of our favorites.
RV Rentals in Sumter National Forest
Transportation
Driving
As vast as this national forest is in South Carolina, you will need to drive to visit the three different districts of Sumter National Forest due to their locations throughout the state. The Andrew Pickens area is located in the Upstate, outside of Anderson, Seneca, and Greenville area. You’ll find the Enoree District in Newberry County near Newberry and Columbia, South Carolina, in the Midlands area. Located outside of the city of Aiken, the Long Cane district is also located in the Midlands Area. For most districts, Interstates 85, 26, 77 and 20 will be near one of the three districts in this beautiful forest. Before you head out, check the district area to see where the campground is located, so you drive to the correct area of the state.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Sumter National Forest
Campsites in Sumter National Forest
Reservations camping
Cherry Hill Campground
Head out in your RV for an excellent camping experience at Cherry Hill Campground in the Andrew Pickens district, just outside Wahalla. With 29 reservable spots among the magnificent tall pine trees, this campground is open to visitors of all ages from April to October. Enjoy chats around the fire, make delicious s’mores, and listen to the calming sounds of the Butte Creek. Fish for your next biggest catch while out in the West Fork Creek, hike the many trails nearby and watch the beautiful wildlife. This campground offers grills, picnic tables, centrally-located drinking water, and lantern posts. Restrooms are provided with hot showers and flush toilets. You'll find a dump station nearby as well. The maximum RV and trailer length for most sites is 40 feet.
Whetstone Horse Camp
If you are hauling horses in your trailer, Whetstone Horse Camp is the perfect camp for you. Equestrians will love the convenient access to 28 miles of horse trails, such as the Rocky Gap Trail. Whetstone Horse Camp is open all year long and provides 18 sites that are available for reservations. Your site will feature a lantern post, picnic table, and fire pit. Horse stalls, hitching posts, drinking water, and vault toilets are available throughout the campground. The maximum vehicle length is 75 feet.
First-come first-served
Woods Ferry Recreation Area
Escape the hectic lifestyle while camping among the rolling hills at the Woods Ferry Recreation Area in western Chester County. With 28 first-come, first-served spots along the Broad River, this is the perfect base camp for your next getaway among the maples, sweet gums, and poplar trees. Your campsite will feature a table and grill for you to enjoy your next outdoor meal. Seven of the sites even feature horse stalls for equestrian campers. This campground offers hot showers, restrooms, and potable water. Note that the water service is only available from April to October. Flyfish along the banks of the crystal clear Broad River, or spend time paddling in your kayak. Pet-friendly, plan to bring your animals for your next camping trip. Enjoy watching wild turkeys and deer while you camp.
Seasonal activities in Sumter National Forest
Off-Season
Hiking
Listen to the birds sing and feel cool forest breeze as you head out to the wild wilderness Sumter National Forest and travel the yellow branch fall trail. Perfect for some great exercise and time spent outdoors, be prepared to see the magnificent South Carolina wildlife, waterfalls, and waterfalls. You find that the different trails in South Carolina at a separate color blaze, to make sure to follow the trail map accordingly before you head out.
Fishing
Seek some of the best fishing in the Southeast when you visit Sumter National Forest! Each day is a new challenge as you fish for catfish and bass. Perfect for fishing from your boat at Wildcat Lake or fly fishing along the Broad River’s edge, this outdoor pastime is excellent for campers of all ability levels. A rustic park, make sure that you have the correct South Carolina fishing license before you head out.
Picnicking
After setting up your RV camping site, grab your cooler and pack some delicious snacks to set out for a picnic in the Sumter National Forest. With several outstanding locations next to a waterfall, river, or lake, this area provides picturesque opportunities to relax. There is no excuse not to get outside and enjoy all that this majestic national forest has to offer while your here. If you need a bigger space for a party or reunion, check out the group picnic sites.
In-Season
OHV Riding
Enjoy the adventurous side of life as you head on the trails in your OHV, ATV, or mountain bike. With 34 miles of miles of trails, there are plenty of routes to cover, such as the Forks Area Trail System, dubbed “Epic Ride” status. Sumter National Forest offers thrill seekers a variety of challenges during their next RV camping stay. Check on trail conditions before you head out.
Wildlife Viewing
Step out of the camping trailer to see the South Carolina wildlife that roams Sumter National Forest. Be prepared to view a wide variety of animals and birds, such as the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker, bears, and coyotes. You’ll see these animals from your campground site to being out on the hiking trail. Plan on grabbing your camera to photograph river otters playing in the many streams and rivers at this national forest too.
Water Sports
Get away from it all and take a break to go swimming, tubing, or paddling down the many rivers and lakes that weave their way within Sumter National Forest. Feel the warm sunshine rays as you enjoy a different perspective while outdoors. This national forest allows motorized boats. You will find several boat ramps in the Long Cane Ranger District. Sumter National Forest offers some great paddling excursions too. Pack a picnic lunch, as there are some great places to stop along the way.
