Sumter National Forest

Spanning 372,778 acres across western and central South Carolina, Sumter National Forest offers rugged terrain divided into three distinct ranger districts. The Enoree Ranger District—the largest at 170,000 acres—stretches across Chester, Fairfield, Laurens, Newberry, and Union counties, while the Long Cane Ranger District covers approximately 120,000 acres in the state’s Piedmont region.

Established in 1936, this forest has developed into a premier destination for outdoor recreation. Ten campgrounds serve visitors, including Sedalia Campground for developed camping, Collins Creek Seasonal Campground for warm-weather stays, and Cassidy Bridge Primitive Camp for backcountry enthusiasts seeking a more rugged experience. Brick House Campground and Poulous Loop Group Campground accommodate larger parties.

The forest’s trail system supports mountain biking, hiking, and backpacking across varied terrain. Rivers and streams provide excellent fishing and canoeing opportunities, while designated areas permit ATV riding and hunting during appropriate seasons. The Chattooga River, forming part of the forest’s western boundary, draws paddlers seeking challenging whitewater.

Clinton, SC serves as the nearest gateway city for supplies, lodging, and dining before heading into the forest. Spring and fall deliver the most comfortable temperatures for hiking and camping, while summer brings full campground operations and water activities. Hunters should check South Carolina regulations for specific season dates.

Access points are distributed throughout the forest’s three sections, with paved roads leading to major recreation areas. Forest roads may require high-clearance vehicles during wet conditions, particularly in more remote sections.