Buncombe Trailhead Parking

Hello, fellow South Carolinians! When you’re looking for an immersive outdoor experience where the trails beckon and nature truly surrounds you, the area around Buncombe Trailhead Parking in Whitmire, SC, is a gem you need to know about. While "Buncombe Trailhead Parking" itself is, as the name suggests, a parking area for accessing trails, it's intrinsically linked to the nearby and often co-located Brick House Campground within the Sumter National Forest. This campground is the actual designated camping facility for those looking to stay overnight and fully explore the extensive Buncombe Horse Trail system and its surroundings. For us locals, understanding this connection is key to planning a successful and enjoyable outdoor adventure in this beautiful part of our state.

The reviews from fellow outdoor enthusiasts paint a vivid picture of the area's appeal: "So many things to see and experience," "beautiful horses and the foliage," and the "beauty, the peace and exploring the different things we found during our walk felt amazing!" This positive feedback truly captures the essence of what makes this part of the Sumter National Forest so special. Brick House Campground, serving as the official camping hub, provides a rustic yet accommodating base for equestrians, hikers, and mountain bikers alike. We know that the allure of South Carolina's diverse landscapes is strong, and this area offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature, whether you're bringing your horses or simply lacing up your hiking boots.

The Buncombe Trailhead Parking and the associated Brick House Campground are located within the Sumter National Forest, just outside Whitmire, SC 29178, USA. This prime location in the South Carolina Piedmont makes it quite accessible for many residents across the state. From Interstate 26, you can take Exit 66 (Joanna/Whitmire exit). If you're heading towards Whitmire, drive about 3.5 miles, then turn right onto Brick House Road (FS Rd 358). The Buncombe Trailhead Parking will be on your left, and the Brick House Campground is just 0.3 miles further on the right.

This straightforward access is a significant advantage, particularly for those towing horse trailers or RVs, allowing for a smooth journey to the heart of the forest. Despite its serene, natural setting, the proximity to Whitmire means that basic necessities are within a reasonable drive, offering a convenient balance of seclusion and accessibility. The well-marked roads and clear directions ensure that you can easily find your way to this peaceful retreat, ready to embark on your outdoor adventures in the Sumter National Forest.

Brick House Campground, serving the Buncombe Trailhead, provides essential services for a rustic yet comfortable camping experience. It’s important to note that this is a primitive campground, focusing on core necessities rather than extensive amenities. Here’s what campers can expect:

• Campsites: The campground offers 21 campsites, suitable for both tents and RVs (with specific sites like 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 21 capable of accommodating RVs). Each site typically includes a picnic table, grill, and lantern holder.
• Vault Toilets: Centrally located double vault toilet buildings provide basic restroom facilities.
• No Running Water: Campers should be prepared as there is no potable running water available at the campground. You must bring your own water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
• No Electrical Hook-ups: There are no electrical hook-ups at the campsites.
• No Dump Station: Campers should plan to empty their RV holding tanks before arrival or after departure.
• Fire Rings: Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Only dead and down wood may be collected for fires.
• Horse Accommodations: Up to two horses per campsite are allowed, but must be highlined or kept in portable corrals behind white-banded trees.
• Trash Disposal: While not explicitly stated for every site, common areas often have provisions for trash collection.

The area around Buncombe Trailhead and Brick House Campground offers a multitude of features and highlights that make it an exceptional destination for outdoor enthusiasts in South Carolina. These aspects truly define the experience:

• Extensive Trail System: The Buncombe Horse Trail itself is approximately 30 miles long, offering various interconnecting loops for different lengths of rides or hikes. This network is open to horses, hikers, and mountain bikers.
• Year-Round Access: The campground and trails are open year-round, allowing for seasonal exploration and enjoyment.
• Wildlife and Plant Observation: The forested hill and valley terrain, along with streams and varied foliage, provides abundant opportunities for observing local wildlife and plant life.
• Historical Points of Interest: The trails wind past old cemeteries, wagon roads, and plantation sites, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.
• Horseback Riding Focus: It's particularly well-regarded for equestrian activities, providing a dedicated space for horse owners to ride and exercise their animals.
• Primitive Camping Opportunities: For a true wilderness experience, primitive camping along the trails is allowed with a required dispersed camping permit from the Enoree Ranger District.
• Proximity to OHV Trails: The 24-mile Enoree OHV Trail, a designated trail for motorized ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes (50 inches wide or less), is only a 10-minute drive north, offering another recreational option.
• Hunting Opportunities: The surrounding national forest lands are popular for big-game deer and turkey hunting, as well as other small game (South Carolina fishing and hunting licenses apply).
• Peaceful and Scenic Environment: Visitors consistently praise the "beauty, the peace" of the area, making it ideal for unwinding and connecting with nature.

For inquiries regarding camping at Brick House Campground or accessing the Buncombe Trailhead, it is best to contact the relevant U.S. Forest Service office. Reservations for Brick House Campground are required and made exclusively through Recreation.gov.

Address: Brick House Campground / Buncombe Trailhead Parking, Whitmire, SC 29178, USA (within Sumter National Forest)

Enoree Ranger District Office (for general inquiries and dispersed camping permits):

Phone: (803) 276-4810

Website for Reservations:

https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10145499

For Primitive Camping Permits along the trails: Contact the Enoree Ranger District Office directly.

In conclusion, for locals across South Carolina, the area encompassing Buncombe Trailhead Parking and the adjacent Brick House Campground in Whitmire offers an exceptional and authentic outdoor experience within the Sumter National Forest. It's perfectly suited for those who appreciate primitive camping, extensive trail systems, and a deep connection with nature. Whether you're an equestrian seeking miles of scenic riding trails, a hiker looking for peaceful walks among diverse foliage, or a mountain biker ready to explore rugged paths, this destination delivers.

The year-round accessibility, coupled with the opportunity for primitive camping (with appropriate permits), makes it a flexible option for impromptu weekend trips or planned outdoor adventures. Despite some hurricane damage, as mentioned in reviews, the dedication to maintaining the trails ensures continued enjoyment. For us South Carolinians, having such a well-preserved and accessible natural space is invaluable. If you're looking to escape the everyday, breathe fresh air, and immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of the South Carolina wilderness, Buncombe Trailhead and Brick House Campground are undoubtedly a top choice for your next local outdoor getaway.

Buncombe Trailhead Parking

Whitmire, SC 29178, USA