Cherry Hill Recreation Area

Welcome to Cherry Hill Recreation Area, a beloved United States Forest Service (FS) campground nestled in the heart of the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests near Walhalla, South Carolina. For South Carolinians who crave the tranquility of nature and the simplicity of a true outdoor experience, Cherry Hill offers a rustic yet comfortable retreat. This isn't a resort-style park with all the bells and whistles, but rather a charming and well-maintained campground that truly connects you with the natural beauty of our state's Upstate region.

Cherry Hill Recreation Area is particularly appealing for those looking to escape the everyday hustle and bustle, seeking peace and quiet amidst towering trees and the sounds of the forest. While it embraces a more primitive camping style, it does so with an emphasis on essential amenities that make your stay enjoyable. This overview will guide you through the key aspects of Cherry Hill Recreation Area, from its picturesque location and accessibility to the practical services it offers and the natural highlights that draw campers back season after season. Get ready to discover a true gem for camping, hiking, and reconnecting with the great outdoors right here in South Carolina.

Cherry Hill Recreation Area is located off SC-107, near Walhalla, SC 29691, USA. This places it in the stunning mountainous region of Oconee County, in the far northwestern corner of South Carolina. The campground is situated within the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests, an area renowned for its dense forests, pristine rivers, and numerous hiking trails, including direct access to portions of the famous Foothills Trail.

Accessibility to Cherry Hill is relatively straightforward for South Carolina residents. While it offers a secluded feel, it’s not overly remote. From Walhalla, you drive north on Highway 28 for about seven miles, then turn right on Highway 107 and continue for another nine miles. Cherry Hill will be on your right. This route makes it a convenient drive for those coming from larger Upstate cities like Greenville, Anderson, or Spartanburg, typically within a few hours' drive. Its location near the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River further enhances its appeal, offering easy access to whitewater rafting, fishing, and other water-based activities. For locals seeking a mountain escape without an excessively long journey, Cherry Hill Recreation Area provides the perfect balance of accessibility and immersion in nature.

Services Offered:

• Campsites: Cherry Hill Recreation Area offers 29 campsites, some of which are suitable for RVs (though without hookups), and others better suited for tent camping. Each site typically includes a picnic table, fire ring with cooking grill, and a lantern post.

• Flush Toilets: The campground provides restrooms with flush toilets, a significant convenience for a national forest campground, enhancing comfort for campers.

• Hot Showers: Individual bathhouses feature hot showers, though users note that temperature regulation might not be available, offering a basic but welcome way to freshen up after outdoor activities.

• Dump Station: A dump station is available for RVers, accommodating those who bring self-contained units even without individual site hookups.

• Potable Drinking Water: Centrally-located spigots provide potable drinking water for all campers.

• Camp Host: A camp host is typically on-site to assist campers, although reviews suggest experiences can vary depending on the individual host.

• Reservations: All sites are reservable up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777. This is highly recommended, especially for weekend and holiday visits.

• Seasonal Operation: The campground is open seasonally, typically from April 1 to October 31.

• Nearby Park Store (Oconee State Park): While not directly on-site, a small park store at Oconee State Park (a few minutes south) can meet some camper supply needs.

Features / Highlights:

• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite occasional issues during holiday weekends, the campground is generally known for its "peace and quiet," attracting "many regulars who like to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life."

• Proximity to the Chattooga River: Offers easy access to the famous Wild and Scenic Chattooga River, renowned for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fishing.

• Direct Access to Hiking Trails: Located near many miles of hiking trails, including segments of the 77-mile Foothills Trail, and trails leading to picturesque waterfalls like King Creek Falls and Whitewater Falls (the highest waterfall in the east, a 30-minute drive away).

• Shaded Sites: Many campsites are nestled under a canopy of hardwood and pine trees, providing welcome shade, especially during warmer months.

• Individual Bathrooms: The bathhouse features individual, lockable bathrooms, offering privacy for campers using the showers, sink, and toilet.

• Natural Surroundings: Nestled in the upper valley of West Fork Creek, with some sites bordering the tranquil creek, providing soothing sounds of babbling water.

• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding national forest is home to diverse wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation.

• Near Walhalla State Fish Hatchery and Oconee State Park: Provides additional recreational and educational opportunities nearby.

Contact Information:

Address: SC-107, Walhalla, SC 29691, USA

Phone: (864) 638-9568 (Andrew Pickens Ranger District Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 864-638-9568

Reservations: (877) 444-6777 or via www.recreation.gov

For South Carolina locals, Cherry Hill Recreation Area offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the authentic beauty of the Blue Ridge foothills without venturing too far from home. This campground is ideally suited for us because it provides a genuine "backwoods retreat" within a national forest setting, yet still offers the essential comforts that make camping enjoyable. The balance of its rustic charm with amenities like flush toilets and hot showers (even if the temperature is fixed) is a significant draw, allowing for a comfortable stay after a day of exploring.

Its location is a major highlight for South Carolinians, providing direct access to some of the state's most cherished natural assets. Whether you're an avid hiker eager to tackle a section of the Foothills Trail, a paddler looking to navigate the Chattooga River, or simply someone who appreciates the serene beauty of waterfalls, Cherry Hill serves as a perfect base camp. The cooler climate at this elevation also offers a welcome respite during our famously hot South Carolina summers.

While some reviews point to potential noise issues on holiday weekends, this only emphasizes that for locals seeking true peace, visiting during the week or outside of peak holidays will yield the tranquil experience Cherry Hill is known for. The ability to reserve sites up to six months in advance also makes it easy for us to plan ahead and secure our preferred spot. Overall, Cherry Hill Recreation Area represents a fantastic value and a truly immersive nature experience, making it a highly recommended destination for South Carolinians looking to explore the stunning natural treasures in their own Upstate backyard.

Cherry Hill Recreation Area

SC-107, Walhalla, SC 29691, USA