Bluff Hike In Camping
100 National Park Road
Bluff Hike In Camping
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fee for hike-in sites is $10 per night. Reservation fees are non-refundable and additional charges may apply for changes or cancellations.
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider803-647-3970cong_information@nps.gov
About this campground
Escape to Bluff Hike-In Camping, where intimate tent-only sites await in sun-dappled grassy clearings embraced by towering pines and majestic hardwoods. This secluded wilderness retreat borders active restoration areas where ancient longleaf pine savannas are being lovingly returned to their former glory, offering campers a front-row seat to conservation in action.
Bluff Hike In Camping is a primitive, hike-in tent campground with no vehicle access, catering to campers who prefer a secluded and natural setting.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms this woodland sanctuary into a crisp, bug-free paradise perfect for peaceful camping under star-filled skies. While spring and fall occasionally bring dramatic flooding that can limit access, these seasonal rhythms add to the site's wild character. Summer adventurers should come prepared for nature's smaller residents—mosquitoes range from barely noticeable during cooler months to enthusiastically welcoming during warmer seasons.
ElevationPerched safely above the floodplain's reach, these elevated campsites offer peace of mind when waters rise below, letting you sleep soundly while the lowlands transform into temporary wetlands.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to a symphony of songbirds in this enchanting forest mosaic where stately pines mingle with spreading hardwoods above carpets of native grasses. Patient observers are rewarded with glimpses of colorful butterflies dancing through filtered sunlight and woodland creatures going about their daily routines in this thriving ecosystem.
Geological RegionThis elevated upland forest sanctuary stands as a natural fortress above Congaree National Park's flood-prone bottomlands, where well-drained soils support a magnificent blend of pine and hardwood species that have weathered countless seasons high and dry.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not highlighted in the provided information, but the hike-in nature of the campground might make it challenging for individuals with mobility limitations.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and located on the edges of an open, grassy clearing.
Sites PrivacyThe campground provides a balance of privacy and openness, with sites situated around a central grassy area. Users have noted the quiet and tranquil environment.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 06 offers good privacy and proximity to trails; Sites 01 and 02 received positive feedback for layout and convenience.
Best CampsitesCampsites 01, 02, and 06 were praised for their layout and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights per visit, up to 28 days within a 6-month period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 campers allowed per site.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are described.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features six tent-only sites arranged in a circular layout surrounding a grassy clearing.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season pricing applies Jan 1 - Dec 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations must be made prior to arrival; no walk-ups are permitted.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee for late cancellations. Changes to reservations also incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bluff Hike In Camping offers activities such as hiking, birding, and stargazing, making it suitable for campers who appreciate the outdoors and a tranquil environment. The campground serves as a gateway to Congaree National Park's trails and natural features.
Hiking
The campground provides easy access to 27 miles of hiking trails, including the Bluff and Firefly trails. These trails connect to the Harry Hampton Visitor Center and other paths leading into the old-growth forest of Congaree National Park.Boating
Campers can canoe or kayak using the park's two landings, located 5-10 minutes by car from the Harry Hampton Visitor Center.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area offers chances to observe wildlife such as birds and butterflies. Campers have described the natural setting as peaceful and conducive to wildlife watching.Winter Activities
Campers have noted that winter is a favorable time for hiking and camping due to the reduced vegetation and lower mosquito activity.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are available within a short drive from the campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires permitted only within designated fire rings. Outside firewood must be pest-free and purchased locally.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are a major concern during warmer months. Flooding can also impact trail and campground accessibility.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include hospitals and fire stations in Columbia, SC, approximately 20 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Campers must pack out all waste and dispose of it at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center or Longleaf Campground.
Proximity to water featuresPotable water is available at Harry Hampton Visitor Center, approximately 1 mile away.
Common complaintsSome users report staff being unhelpful and campsite access being unclear. Parking lot safety concerns were also raised due to lack of cameras.
Campground Map
100 National Park Road
Driving directionsDrive to Harry Hampton Visitor Center or Longleaf Campground from Hopkins, SC. Park your vehicle and hike approximately 1 mile via Bluff or Firefly Trails.
The campground is accessible only via hike-in trails; nearby parking is available at Harry Hampton Visitor Center or Longleaf Campground. Roads to these areas are paved.Nearby places
Columbia, SC - approximately 20 miles, 30 minutes by car.
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Columbia, SC, about 20 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
15 reviews
Bluff Hike In Camping is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Bluff Hike In Camping experience is generally rated positively, with an average campground-specific sentiment of 4.27. Reviewers appreciate the peaceful and spacious environment, proximity to trails, and stargazing opportunities. However, some users noted issues with accessibility, staff interactions, and vehicle safety.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Users emphasized the tranquil setting, spacious campsites, and excellent access to hiking trails. Stargazing and wildlife observation were commonly praised. "Short walk to the sites which sit in a...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints included difficulty with navigation, lack of on-site facilities, and concerns about vehicle security. One reviewer lamented, "No cameras to watch parking lot now I have to pay to repair...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Many reviewers recommended bringing adequate water and firewood, planning for a 1-mile hike-in, and considering off-season visits to avoid flooding and bugs. A reviewer suggested, "We recommend...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter and early spring were highlighted as ideal times to visit due to cooler temperatures, reduced bugs, and more manageable vegetation. For example, a reviewer stated, "The mosquito meter stayed...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"It’s in a nice clearing too so you get a great view of the sky at night," remarked one user. Another wrote, "Being a solo traveler, a good hiking backpack would have been handy as it was a lot to...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite experiences varied. Campsite 06 was praised for its cleanliness and privacy, while Campsite 02 was noted to provide convenient access to fire pits and picnic tables.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
No detailed accessibility-specific reviews were provided, but the hike-in nature of the campground could pose challenges for those with mobility impairments.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Several reviewers mentioned bringing pets and noted that leashes were consistently used, contributing to a safe and enjoyable environment for all campers.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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