Woods Ferry Recreation Area
4.0922 reviewsWoods Ferry Recreation Area, Chester County, SC
Quick Facts
40 ftPrice
$7 - $14/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
23 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
40 ftPrice
$7 - $14/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
23 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Woods Ferry Recreation Area
$7.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Campground fees are $7 per night for standard sites and $14 per night for group and double sites.
Standard Site Fee$7.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$14.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$21.00
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USFS
ProviderWhat Campers Say
4.09
Satisfactory
Based on 22 reviews
105 Google reviews
Most mentioned
well-maintainedsites
Some mention
noise
"User reviews reflect a mix of positive experiences, highlighting the campground's natural beauty and spacious campsites. However, some concerns were raised about noise from generators and the lack of certain amenities like showers."
Fees & Passes at Woods Ferry Recreation Area
$7 - $14/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: 14 days
Cancellation: Reservations must be made in advance. Cancellation policies are not explicitly described.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests website.
Best Time to Camp at Woods Ferry Recreation Area
Experience the full spectrum of Carolina seasons at Woods Ferry. Spring and fall bring perfect camping weather with crisp mornings and comfortable 50-70°F days ideal for hiking and exploration. Summer transforms the campground into a lush green paradise, with temperatures reaching the balmy 80s – perfect for water activities and shaded forest retreats. Winter offers its own quiet charm, with temperatures settling into the mild 40s, creating peaceful conditions for those seeking solitude and reflection in nature.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 1 through October 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open year-round for reservations.
- Current Alerts: Vault toilets are operational but lack lighting.
About Woods Ferry Recreation Area
Escape to Woods Ferry Recreation Area, where towering hardwoods and whispering pines create a natural sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts. This rustic retreat features two thoughtfully designed camping loops, each nestled within a diverse forest canopy that provides cooling shade and peaceful seclusion. Whether you're casting a line into pristine waters, exploring scenic trails on foot or horseback, or launching your boat for a day on the water, Woods Ferry delivers the authentic outdoor experience you've been craving.
Woods Ferry Recreation Area offers a mix of camping experiences suitable for tent campers, equestrian campers, and group sites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the nearby Woods Family Cemetery, a poignant reminder of the generations who once called this land home. This historic site adds a layer of cultural richness to your camping experience, inviting quiet contemplation and connection to the area's heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Carolina seasons at Woods Ferry. Spring and fall bring perfect camping weather with crisp mornings and comfortable 50-70°F days ideal for hiking and exploration. Summer transforms the campground into a lush green paradise, with temperatures reaching the balmy 80s – perfect for water activities and shaded forest retreats. Winter offers its own quiet charm, with temperatures settling into the mild 40s, creating peaceful conditions for those seeking solitude and reflection in nature.
ElevationSituated at a gentle 40 feet above sea level, Woods Ferry offers an accessible low-elevation camping experience that's perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities. This modest elevation creates an ideal environment for diverse plant and animal life while ensuring comfortable conditions year-round.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the rich tapestry of a thriving wooded floodplain ecosystem, where the mighty Broad River winds through ancient forests. The campground's unique position between upland pine groves and mature hardwood forests creates a biodiverse wonderland teeming with wildlife. Keep your camera ready for frequent wildlife encounters, and let your senses come alive with the seasonal parade of wildflowers and native plants that paint the landscape in ever-changing colors.
Geological RegionDiscover the fascinating ecology of a wooded floodplain ecosystem along the scenic Broad River. This unique geological setting, where upland pine forests meet mature hardwood groves, creates a dynamic landscape shaped by centuries of river flow and forest succession. The result is a remarkably diverse habitat that showcases the natural beauty of the Carolina lowlands.
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Campsite details
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as large and spacious, with enough room for campers to set up tents comfortably.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer fair privacy and are well-shaded within a forested setting, as noted by official sources and user reviews.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from equestrian campers if you are sensitive to generator noise.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days
Groups
Group sites cost $14 per night, and each accommodates up to 14 days of stay.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo loops offer shaded and private campsites. Parking aprons are grass and dirt and not level.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made exclusively through recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up reservations are not available; all sites require prior booking.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be made in advance. Cancellation policies are not explicitly described.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
At Woods Ferry Recreation Area, visitors can engage in hiking, fishing, boating, horseback riding, picnicking, and biking. Its location on the Broad River makes it suitable for fishing and canoeing as well.
Hiking
The Woods Ferry Trail spans 10 miles and accommodates hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Visitors have praised the trail, with one user commenting, 'Miles of hiking trails. We had a great time hiking to the Woods Family cemetery.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities along the Broad River include smallmouth bass. There are four fishing platforms available.Biking
Mountain biking is supported on the Woods Ferry Trail, which spans 10 miles. The terrain is suitable for a variety of skill levels.Boating
Non-motorized boating activities, like canoeing, are popular at the Broad River. However, low water levels during July and August may limit accessibility.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground operates seasonally from April 1 to October 31.Water Sports
While kayaking and canoeing are available, power boating is prohibited at the campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated rings only. Collect only dead wood.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsStray dogs have been occasionally reported by visitors. Rifle range sounds nearby may be unsettling to some.
Active alertsVault toilets are operational but lack lighting.
Weather at Woods Ferry Recreation Area
42
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 92%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are in Carlisle, SC, approximately 4.7 miles away, including local sheriff and medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 through October 31
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities appear to be limited, as users did not specifically mention these services.
Proximity to water featuresThe Broad River is accessible for fishing and canoeing. Boating facilities include a ramp at the picnic area.
Common complaintsGenerator noise and lack of enforcement of quiet hours. Stray dogs and disrepair of some facilities noted in reviews.
Campground Map
Woods Ferry Recreation Area, Chester County, SC
Driving directionsFrom Hwy. 72 and Leeds Rd., County 12-25, drive north 1.8 miles. Turn left, at intersection of Leeds Rd., County 12-25, and County Rd. 49 and drive 0.1 miles. Cross over railroad tracks and drive 3.4 miles north to Park Rd., County 12-574. Turn left onto Park Rd., County 12-574, and drive 3.6 miles to the end of the paved road. From Hwy. 9 and County 49, drive south 5.6 miles. Turn right at Park Rd., County 12-574, and drive 3.6 miles to the end of the paved road.
The access roads are paved until the end of Park Rd., requiring campers to navigate dirt roads for the final stretch. Seasonal closures are not specified.Nearby places
Carlisle (Approx. 4.7 miles), Chester (Approx. 20 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be acquired in Carlisle, SC, approximately 4.7 miles away. Essentials like groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.1
22 reviews
Woods Ferry Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reflect a mix of positive experiences, highlighting the campground's natural beauty and spacious campsites. However, some concerns were raised about noise from generators and the lack of certain amenities like showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers have praised the campground's secluded atmosphere, proximity to the Broad River, and well-maintained trails. One camper mentioned, 'The sites are pretty secluded, and the walk to the river is...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints often revolve around the lack of enforcement of quiet hours, noise from generators, and the removal of shower facilities. One reviewer noted, '10 PM quiet time isn't enforced.' Another...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own potable water as there are no drinking water facilities at the campground. Quiet hours may not be enforced, so bring earplugs if you are sensitive to noise.
Based on 22 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground experiences quieter times during early summer but can become noisy when equestrian campers arrive with generators. Low water levels in July and August may reduce boating and fishing...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Just a beautiful area to go and be out in the woods for a little while.' 2. 'Hot showers with flushable toilets. Quiet camping and good fishing.' 3. 'Ideal for a Boondocker. Also has fresh water...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #6 was specifically praised for its quiet and beautiful surroundings during the initial days of a 10-day stay. However, users noted generator noise as a disturbance when equestrian campers...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but there were no specific reviews focused on pet policies and experiences.
Based on 22 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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