Chau Ram County Park
00 review1220 Chau Ram Park Road, Westminster, South Carolina, 29693, United States
Chau Ram County Park
$3.00 - $3.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Daily parking fee is $3 as mentioned in multiple reviews. Campground fees are not explicitly stated in the authoritative content.
About this campground
Discover a hidden gem where adventure meets tranquility at Chau Ram County Park. This scenic retreat features 26 well-appointed campsites, each equipped with water and electricity hookups for your comfort. The crown jewel of the park is its spectacular 40-foot waterfall, best viewed from the thrilling 160-foot suspension bridge that sways gently above the rushing waters. The Chauga River's energetic rapids create a natural playground for tubing enthusiasts, while calmer pools invite anglers to cast their lines. Families can explore winding hiking trails through verdant forests, let children's imaginations run wild at the playground, or gather for memorable celebrations in the rental shelters. Whether you're seeking the rush of river tubing, the peace of a streamside picnic, or simply a front-row seat to nature's grandeur, Chau Ram delivers an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Chau Ram County Park offers a mix of camping options for RV and tent campers. Sites provide amenities such as water and electrical hookups, as well as areas for group gatherings.
Historical SignificanceChau Ram County Park sits within a region of profound natural and cultural importance. In November 2012, National Geographic recognized the broader Jocassee Gorges area in a special publication, cementing its status as one of America's extraordinary natural treasures. This recognition speaks to the area's exceptional biodiversity, pristine watersheds, and the careful balance between conservation and recreation that defines the region. The park serves as a gateway to understanding the rich tapestry of Appalachian culture and the enduring relationship between the mountain communities and their spectacular natural surroundings.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the park's dynamic seasonal personality throughout the year. Early spring arrives with crisp, refreshing temperatures and lower humidity, creating perfect conditions for hiking and exploring without the summer crowds. As the season progresses, warming temperatures bring lush greenery and fuller waterways, though afternoon showers become more frequent. The magic truly unfolds during early spring and late fall, when comfortable temperatures, lower rainfall, and stunning natural colors create ideal camping conditions. Fall visitors are treated to a spectacular display of autumn foliage reflecting in the river waters, while spring campers witness the forest awakening with wildflowers and migrating songbirds.
ElevationWhile specific elevation data awaits documentation, visitors immediately sense the park's position within the rolling foothills, where mountain streams gather momentum and ancient rocks tell stories millions of years in the making.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry takes center stage where Ramsey Creek dramatically joins the Chauga River, creating a stunning confluence that has shaped this landscape for millennia. The thundering 40-foot waterfall serves as the park's centerpiece, sending mists that nourish ferns and mosses clinging to ancient rocks. Rapids dance and churn through smooth boulders, creating an ever-changing water symphony that echoes through the forest canopy. Hiking trails wind through towering hardwoods and evergreens, offering glimpses of wildlife and leading to scenic overlooks where the full majesty of the gorge reveals itself. Every season paints the landscape differently—from the delicate spring wildflowers to summer's deep greens, autumn's fiery palette, and winter's stark beauty.
Geological RegionNestled in Oconee County's breathtaking Mountain Lakes Region, Chau Ram County Park showcases the best of South Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountain foothills. This remarkable geological zone represents the meeting place of ancient mountains and pristine waterways, where billions of years of earth's history lie exposed in weathered granite and metamorphic formations. The region's exceptional biodiversity flourishes in this unique ecosystem where mountain streams cascade toward the piedmont, creating numerous microclimates that support everything from rare salamanders to soaring raptors. Crystal-clear lakes dot the surrounding landscape, their deep waters reflecting forested peaks and providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures throughout this naturalist's paradise.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park features a handicap-accessible 40-foot waterfall and trails that are suitable for visitors with disabilities. Additionally, some shelters and areas like the falls are drive-up accessible, making them convenient for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeCampsites include space for RVs and tents. Some reviews note smaller or tighter sites but also highlight larger spots suitable for bigger setups.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as nicely spread out in some reviews; however, others mention that tight setups may reduce privacy between the fire ring, picnic table, and camper steps.
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Just be sure to do your research on your site before booking. All of the sites seemed like they would be suitable for a large tent." Indicates varied site sizes and suitability based on needs.
Best Campsites"Amazing stay with the best camp sites that are all very close to the bathroom." User reviews highlight proximity to bathrooms as a strong point.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Entrance gate opens at 7 am.
Check-out
Gate closes at dusk.
Stay Limit
"Six (6) persons per site" and "Only registered campers will be allowed in the park after hours" indicates controlled occupancy limits.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six persons per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout"Campground is tight one lane road (STEEP HILL)." Campsites are close to each other based on user feedback.
Open and Closed Season"Visitors are advised to call the office about gate closure times which change weekly according to dusk time." Indicates seasonal variations in gate operating hours.
Reservation PlatformsUsers are advised to call the office about reservations; no online reservation system mentioned.
Walk-in Availability"Only registered campers will be allowed in the park after hours." Indicates walk-up availability may exist but is regulated by gate closure times.
Cancellation PolicyNull
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Chau Ram County Park offers a plethora of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Guests can enjoy hiking, tubing, fishing, swimming, picnicking, and more. The park’s features include a scenic suspension bridge, a 40-foot waterfall, and rapids suitable for tubing.
Hiking
There are over three miles of hiking trails within the park, varying in difficulty. Reviews praise the trails as 'very fun, not boring,' and note the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. The blue loop is described as an easy hike, while the orange loop is more challenging.Fishing
Fishing is allowed in the Chauga River and other water features within the park. Some loops lead to additional fishing spots, which are described as peaceful and scenic.Swimming
The park offers natural swimming holes and areas under the waterfalls, which are highly regarded by visitors. Several reviews mention the safety and enjoyment of these spots for families and individuals alike.Winter Activities
The park remains open in the winter, but specific winter activities are not detailed in the sources.Water Sports
Water-based activities like tubing and swimming are popular highlights of the park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- "Only registered campers will be allowed in the park after hours." Indicates controlled access but no explicit fire policies.
- Quiet hours are "The park gate is locked nightly." Indicates enforced quiet hours after dusk.
Hazards
General hazards"Road coming into the park from HWY 76 is one lane (STEEP HILL)." Indicates steep and narrow roads may pose hazards to larger vehicles.
Active alerts"Visitors are advised to call the office about gate closure times which changes weekly according to dusk time."
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Null
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingTrash pickup is regularly conducted by the rangers, and user reviews frequently praise the cleanliness of the park. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water features"Over a mile of Chauga River running through the park with rapids such as the pumphouse rapids, can-opener and the V rapid." Includes direct access to water activities.
Common complaints"The amount of times the rangers drove around the campground on their loud gators was extremely annoying." Other complaints include tight campsite space and steep grades making it difficult for larger RVs.
Host"Rangers are very very kind and nice, very considerate of you." Rangers are frequently mentioned as helpful and courteous.
Campground Map
1220 Chau Ram Park Road, Westminster, South Carolina, 29693, United States
Driving directionsDirections from I-85 Northbound: Take Exit 1 North Hwy. 11. Proceed about 13 miles to Exit for Hwy. 123 Seneca & Westminster. Go across bridge and take first right. At Stop sign take a right onto North Hwy. 123. Proceed four miles into City of Westminster. Go through traffic light. Bear left at fork and continue on through the next three traffic lights. At fourth traffic light turn right onto West Hwy. 76. Proceed 2.5 miles. At bottom of hill turn left onto Chau Ram Park Road. Directions from I-85 Southbound: Take Exit 11. Right on (Hwy 24). Go approximately 15 miles to Westminster. Left onto Hwy 123. Bear left at fork and continue on through the next three traffic lights. At fourth traffic light turn right onto West Hwy. 76. Proceed 2.5 miles. At bottom of hill turn left onto Chau Ram Park Road.
"Road coming into the park from HWY 76 is one lane. Campground is tight one lane road (STEEP HILL). RVs and Buses with pull-behind cars need to unhook pull-behinds before coming into park." This indicates steep grades making access challenging for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Westminster (approx. 4 miles), Seneca (approx. 17 miles), Clemson (approx. 25 miles)
Nearby supplies
Null
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Chau Ram County Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently highlight the park's natural beauty, cleanliness, and the friendliness of staff. Many visitors emphasize the well-maintained facilities, scenic hiking trails, and enjoyable water features. Criticisms include the park’s tight camping layout for larger RVs and the frequency of ranger patrols, which some found disruptive.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, friendly and helpful rangers, scenic natural features like waterfalls and rapids, family-friendly atmosphere, affordable pricing, and well-maintained trails.
Common Concerns
Tight campsite layouts for larger RVs, frequent ranger patrols disrupting the peace for some, and occasional issues with noisy campers. One review mentions a "secret password" for the park's Wi-Fi...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Research campsite sizes before booking to ensure compatibility with your RV or tent. Bring your own bikes or toys for kids as the steep roads may limit biking opportunities. Many visitors recommend...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted as great times to visit due to moderate weather and scenic foliage, while summer months are popular for water activities. Winter sees fewer visitors, making it quieter, but...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Very beautiful campsite. One of the most well-kept parks.' 2. 'The river is amazing and the rapids are fun.' 3. 'Bathrooms are very clean and the rangers are super nice.' 4. 'The 40-foot...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site reviews suggest that most campsites are close to the bathroom, which is convenient. Larger RVs might struggle with the tighter layouts. Tent sites are highly regarded for their proximity to...
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Accessibility Features
The park’s accessibility features, such as handicap-friendly waterfalls and trails, receive positive mentions. Drive-up areas are appreciated by visitors with mobility challenges.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly policies are generally well-received, with the leash rule noted. Some areas may have pet waste issues, as mentioned in one review urging visitors to clean up after their pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025