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Best camping hiking trails in South Carolina
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Best camping hiking trails in South Carolina

Why stop at hiking when you can make it an overnight adventure? These camping-friendly trails are perfect for those who want to pitch a tent and sleep under the stars after a day of exploring.

Here are some great trails to explore in South Carolina.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Old Waterwheel Loop Trail

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (86) · 2.4 km · Est. 38 min

2

Difficult

Natural Bridge, Raven Rock and McKinney Mountain Loop Trail

Pickens County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (81) · 6.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 47 min

3

Medium

Chattooga River, Fork Mountain and Medlin Mountain Loop Trail

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 5.0 (69) · 27.9 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

4

Easy

James Island County Park Loop

Charleston County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (77) · 5.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 8 min

5

Easy

East Fork Chattooga River

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 5.0 (83) · 14.7 km · Est. 3 hrs 29 min

6

Easy

Magnolia Forest - Lagoon Loop Trail

Beaufort County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (76) · 13.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 47 min

7

Easy

Chattooga River Trail from Burrells Ford Road

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (85) · 11.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 35 min

8

Medium

Jones Gap and Gum Gap Trail to Sassafras Mountain

Greenville County, South Carolina · star 4.0 (63) · 33.4 km · Est. 1 day 4 hrs

9

Difficult

Rim of the Gap Trail and Jones Gap Trail Loop

Greenville County, South Carolina · star 5.0 (77) · 15.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 21 min

10

Easy

Foothills Trail and Medlin Mountain

Oconee County, South Carolina · star 5.0 (83) · 10.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 28 min

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Reviews for camping hiking trails in South Carolina

Josephine Thompson avatar

Old Waterwheel Loop Trail

CragWanderer87 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Randy Kiehn Esq. avatar

Natural Bridge, Raven Rock and McKinney Mountain Loop Trail

ShorelineWildtracker43 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Felice Wilkinson avatar

Chattooga River, Fork Mountain and Medlin Mountain Loop Trail

SpruceHavenranger28 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Kermit Green Sr. avatar

James Island County Park Loop

PebbleFootstep27 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Russell Rohan I avatar

East Fork Chattooga River

GorgeMeadowwalker27 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in South Carolina

What is the climate like for hiking in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, winters are mild and summers hot. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are the best seasons to hike, with mild temperatures and beautiful landscapes. Always keep in mind the sudden rain showers in spring. Visit South Carolina's official tourism site for more.
Summers (July to August) are hot and humid, not ideal for hiking. Still, coastal areas offer a pleasant breeze. Check weather updates regularly and stay hydrated.
Winter (December to February) is mild, but trails in mountain areas may get icy. Layer your clothes, watch for weather warnings, and take necessary precautions.

Do I need a permit to hike in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, most hiking trails don't require permits. However, state park fees may apply. For backpacking in wilderness areas, check specific requirements with the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. Visit their official site for detailed information.

Is wild camping allowed in South Carolina?

Wild camping in South Carolina is typically permitted in state forests and some state parks with certain restrictions. It's advised to check regulations with specific parks. Backcountry camping is also allowed with a permit in some areas. Visit the official site for more information.

Are there mountain rescue services in South Carolina?

In case of an emergency while hiking in South Carolina, dial 911. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) is responsible for coordinating statewide emergency response. They work closely with county emergency services. More information can be found on the SCEMD website.

Are there dangerous plants in South Carolina?

South Carolina's diverse habitats host varied flora. Coastal hikes reveal live oaks, Spanish moss, and saw palmetto, while the Mountain Region's forests bloom with rhododendrons, mountain laurels, and ferns. Check out South Carolina's State Parks website for specific locations' flora details.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in South Carolina?

From alligators in coastal wetlands to white-tailed deer in mountain forests, South Carolina's fauna varies with the terrain. Watch out for venomous snakes and mosquitos. Be informed about wildlife in hiking areas using the https://scdhec.gov/health/insects-animals website.

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