Collins Creek Seasonal Campground (Sc)
02 reviewsUS Forest Service, Enoree Ranger District, 20 Work Center Road, Whitmire, SC 29178
Collins Creek Seasonal Campground (Sc)
$5.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
During big game hunting seasons (fall deer and spring turkey), the campground operates on a Scan and Pay system, with fees of $5 per night, $50 per...
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Standard Site Fee$5.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$5.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider(803) 276-4810
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Enoree Ranger District, Collins Creek Seasonal Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience within Sumter National Forest's vast wilderness. This rustic retreat draws outdoor enthusiasts seeking simplicity and solitude, particularly during hunting season when the surrounding forest teems with wildlife. While modern conveniences are minimal—featuring only vault toilets, fresh water spigots, and a single outdoor shower—the campground provides everything needed for those who prefer their adventures unfiltered. Without electricity or cell service to distract, visitors find themselves fully immersed in the rhythms of the forest.
Collins Creek Seasonal Campground provides primitive camping facilities designed for both individual and group use. RVs and tent camping are supported.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground itself whispers stories of simpler times, the surrounding region speaks volumes about South Carolina's rich heritage. A short 20-mile journey leads to the Union County Historical Museum, where local tales and artifacts paint a vivid picture of Piedmont life through the centuries. For those seeking an evening of culture after days in the wilderness, the historic Newberry Opera House stands just 30 miles away, offering world-class performances in a beautifully restored 1882 venue that serves as a testament to the region's enduring appreciation for the arts.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of South Carolina's climate at Collins Creek, where long, languid summers bring temperatures climbing into the 80s and 90s, perfect for early morning hikes and afternoon creek explorations. Winter months offer a gentler touch, with temperatures settling comfortably between the 40s and 60s—ideal for campfire gatherings without the summer humidity. Throughout the year, nearby rivers dance between high and low water marks, creating an ever-changing landscape that reveals new swimming holes in summer and peaceful rocky stretches during drier months.
ElevationPerched at a gentle 440 feet above sea level, Collins Creek embodies the characteristic rolling landscape of South Carolina's Piedmont region. This modest elevation creates the perfect balance—high enough to catch cooling breezes on summer evenings, yet accessible enough for comfortable year-round camping without the challenges of mountain terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a sprawling tapestry of over 700,000 acres where towering pines mingle with ancient hardwoods, creating a cathedral of green overhead. The campground's shady, grass-carpeted sites offer peaceful havens beneath this living canopy, while the gentle hills of the Piedmont roll away in every direction. Three magnificent rivers—the Tyger, Enoree, and Broad—carve their paths through the landscape, offering endless opportunities for exploration. The campground's namesake creek meanders southward, its gentle babble providing nature's soundtrack, while the crystal-clear Jews Harp Spring to the north offers a hidden gem for those who venture to find it.
Geological RegionCollins Creek rests in the ancient embrace of South Carolina's Piedmont, where millions of years of geological history have sculpted a landscape of gentle hills and fertile valleys. As part of the Enoree Ranger District within Sumter National Forest, the campground showcases the region's signature mixed pine-hardwood ecosystem—a living testament to the Piedmont's unique position between the mountains and the coastal plain. This transitional zone creates an incredibly diverse habitat where southern and mountain species converge, offering campers a front-row seat to one of the Southeast's most ecologically rich environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific mention of ADA-compliant or accessibility features is available in the authoritative content.
Sites SizeThe campground features 36 campsites, which can generally accommodate a variety of camping setups. Sites offer shady grassy areas with fire rings.
Sites PrivacyThere is no explicit mention of site privacy, but the natural wooded environment presumably offers some level of seclusion.
Total Campsites36 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded sites for comfort during summer. Avoid proximity to vault toilets due to potential odor.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Variable, depends on reservation rules and hunting season operation.
Check-out
Variable, depends on reservation rules and hunting season operation.
Stay Limit
First-come, first-served operation during hunting seasons. Reservations are required for offseason use.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of eight people per site, minimum one person.
Groups
The campground can be reserved as a single group site accommodating multiple parties. Outside of hunting seasons, the campground operates as a whole-site reservation system.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne large campground loop with 36 campsites featuring shady grassy areas, flat gravel roads, and varying configurations for tents or campers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but operates differently during hunting and non-hunting seasons (hunting season is first-come, first-served; otherwise reservation-only).
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable only during hunting seasons on a first-come, first-served basis. Outside hunting seasons, reservations are mandatory.
Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay transactions during hunting seasons are non-refundable, non-modifiable. Reservations for the offseason are subject to standard Recreation.gov policies, including potential late cancellation fees.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, and boating. These activities align with the rustic and natural environment of the Sumter National Forest.
Hiking
Jews Harp Spring Trail offers an easy, leisurely hike to an old spring site. Campers can access this trail by bushwhacking through the woods or walking along the forest service gravel road.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are plentiful, with the campground being centrally located near the Broad, Enoree, and Tyger Rivers. A South Carolina fishing license is required.Swimming
Swimming is possible in nearby rivers, but campers should exercise caution as water levels fluctuate with rainfall, and currents can be present. Rivers may become impassable in late summer due to low water levels.Boating
Boating is supported in the Broad, Enoree, and Tyger Rivers. However, the suitability of conditions for boating depends on water levels, which are subject to seasonal fluctuation.Wildlife viewing
The region is rich in wildlife, with the forest area being a prime location for observing deer, turkeys, and other species.Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing are mentioned, likely due to the mild winters in the area.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are possible on the nearby rivers, contingent on water levels.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated rock or metal fire rings. Trash disposal in fire rings is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife encounters and fluctuating water levels in rivers (impassable during late summer months).
Active alertsPossible seasonal closures and locked gates outside hunting season.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely located in Whitmire, SC (~12 miles away), including police and medical facilities. The nearest ranger station is the Enoree Ranger District Office.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpecific hunting seasons: fall deer (September through December) and spring turkey (April).
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are provided within the campground. Campers are advised not to dispose of trash in fire rings.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Tyger, Enoree, and Broad Rivers, as well as Collins Creek flowing southward from the campground.
Common complaints"Needs some updating and cleaning of sites. It is primitive but neglected." Some users reported locked gates during offseason reservations with poor support: "We arrived...to find the gate locked & no code given. No answer at Ranger Station...Currently awaiting a refund."
HostNo dedicated campground host is mentioned.
Campground Map
US Forest Service, Enoree Ranger District, 20 Work Center Road, Whitmire, SC 29178
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 26 and Highway 121 (exit 72 off interstate), drive north 5.3 miles. Turn right onto Old Whitmire Hwy. (County Rd. 81) and drive 0.4 miles to the stop sign. Continue north on County Rd. 81, Brazzelmans Bridge Rd., and drive 6.9 miles. Turn left onto Maybinton Rd., County Rd. 45, and drive 2.3 miles. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 393 and drive 0.3 miles to the campground entrance on the left.
The access route is relatively straightforward and involves paved roads for most of the drive. The final segment is a gravel road that is flat and easily traveled. Seasonal closures may occur during non-hunting periods, and visitors have reported locked gates during the offseason.Nearby places
Whitmire, SC (~12 miles)
Union, SC (~20 miles)
Newberry, SC (~30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies including groceries, camping equipment, and fuel may be available in Whitmire (~12 miles) or Union (~20 miles).
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Collins Creek Seasonal Campground (Sc) has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Collins Creek Seasonal Campground are mixed, with some praising its natural setting and others highlighting issues with maintenance and availability during the off-season.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews appreciated the natural, rustic setting and opportunities for outdoor activities like hunting and fishing. The shaded campsites were noted as a plus.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include a lack of maintenance at the campsites and poor communication or access during off-season reservations. One reviewer stated: 'The gate was locked, and no code was provided for...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to call the Ranger Station in advance to confirm access codes and availability, especially during the off-season. Wearing brightly colored clothing during hunting seasons is...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Hunting seasons are the busiest, with campers generally satisfied with the first-come, first-serve system. Off-season reviews highlight challenges in accessing the site and gate lock issues.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'It needs some updating and cleaning of sites. It is primitive but neglected.' 2. 'We arrived to find the gate locked with no code given. No answer at the Ranger Station either.'
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific site details in reviews were not provided. General comments mention shaded grassy areas and sites accommodating a variety of setups.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressed accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. No specific reviews mentioned pet-related experiences.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025