What is the Largest Campground in South Carolina? A Guide to Cherrywood RV Resort

You’re driving down Highway 17 near Myrtle Beach, kids in the back seat asking if we’re there yet, and you realize you need a spot that can handle a full-size RV, a dog who needs room to run, and enough amenities to keep three generations of your family happy for a week. You don’t just want a patch of dirt; you want a destination. That’s when the question hits: What is the largest campground in South Carolina?

The answer isn’t some hidden gem off a logging road. It’s Cherrywood RV Resort, located in Conway, South Carolina. With over 200 sites and extensive facilities, it stands out as the biggest dedicated RV resort in the state. But "biggest" doesn't automatically mean "best" for every camper. If you’re looking for secluded wilderness, this might be too busy. If you want pool access, laundry on site, and Wi-Fi that actually works while you answer work emails, this is likely your best bet.

Why Cherrywood RV Resort Takes the Crown

When we talk about size in camping, we usually mean acreage or site count. In South Carolina, few places compete with Cherrywood’s scale. Located just minutes from the Grand Strand beaches, it functions less like a traditional campsite and more like a small town on wheels. The resort features over 200 pull-through and back-in sites, many with full hookups (30/50 amp electric, water, sewer). This infrastructure is crucial because true "camping" often means roughing it, but here, you get residential-style living.

The sheer volume of amenities sets it apart. We’re talking about multiple swimming pools, a splash pad for toddlers, a fitness center, and even a clubhouse with organized activities. For families, this solves the biggest pain point: boredom. When the rain hits or the beach gets crowded, you have alternatives right at your doorstep. Compare this to smaller state parks where you might have one shared bathhouse and no cell service, and you see why people flock here during peak season.

Location Matters: Conway vs. The Rest of SC

Size means nothing if the location is inconvenient. Cherrywood sits in Horry County, which is essentially the backyard of Myrtle Beach. You are roughly 15-20 minutes from the main tourist strip. This proximity is a double-edged sword. On one hand, you avoid the traffic nightmare of staying directly on the beachfront, saving money and sanity. On the other, you still pay premium prices for the convenience.

Other large options exist in South Carolina, but they differ in nature:

• Lake Jocassee State Park: Large acreage, but fewer developed RV sites. Better for tent campers seeking solitude.
• Green Sea Lake Recreation Area: Massive forested area, but limited modern hookups.
• Congaree National Park: Famous for its boardwalks, but camping is primitive. No showers, no electric hookups.

If your definition of "campground" requires flush toilets and hot showers, Cherrywood wins by default simply because most large public lands in SC stick to rustic standards. Private resorts fill the gap for those who want comfort without leaving the outdoors entirely.

Is It Really Good for Families?

You clicked on "family campsites," so let’s address the elephant in the room: Is a massive resort kid-friendly? Yes, but not in the way a quiet forest cabin is. At Cherrywood, social interaction is part of the experience. Kids make friends quickly at the splash pad. Parents swap tips at the mailroom. It creates a community vibe that solo campers sometimes find overwhelming, but families thrive on.

However, noise levels can be high. With hundreds of neighbors, you will hear generators humming, dogs barking, and late-night conversations. If your children are light sleepers, bring white noise machines. Also, book early. Because it’s the largest and most popular, summer weekends sell out months in advance. August, as we approach September, sees a slight dip in crowds, making it a sweet spot for pricing and availability.

Cost vs. Value: What Are You Paying For?

Let’s be real: Camping at Cherrywood isn’t cheap. During peak season (June-August), nightly rates for a full hookup site can range from $60 to $90+. Add pet fees ($10-$15 per night) and extra vehicle fees, and a week-long stay adds up fast. Why pay this much when you can camp for free in some national forests?

You’re paying for time savings. Setting up a primitive campsite takes hours. Finding firewood, hauling water, and digging catholes eats into vacation time. Here, you plug in, unpack, and go to the beach. For working parents with only five days off, that efficiency is worth the premium. Plus, the maintenance is top-tier. Pads are level, gravel is fresh, and staff respond quickly to issues like broken pedestals.

Alternatives If You Hate Crowds

If "largest" sounds like "too crowded," consider these nearby options that offer space without the resort feel:

1. Burgess Creek State Park: Smaller than Cherrywood but offers lakefront sites and kayaking. More rustic, less polished.
2. Edisto River Ranch: Focuses on horseback riding and nature trails. Great for active families who want adventure over amenities.
3. Myrtle Beach State Park: Right on the ocean. Sites are tight, but you wake up to the sound of waves. No hookups for tents, though.

Each has trade-offs. Burgess Creek lacks the pool complex. Edisto requires booking through a different system. Myrtle Beach State Park fills up instantly due to its beachfront location. Cherrywood remains the safest bet for guaranteed comfort and capacity.

Booking Tips for the Largest Campground in SC

Ready to book? Here’s how to navigate the process:

• Check the Site Map: Not all sites are equal. Avoid those near the playground if you hate noise. Choose shaded sites in summer; SC heat is no joke.
• Verify Pet Policies: Leash laws are strictly enforced. Bring proof of vaccinations; they ask.
• Use Membership Discounts: If you have Passport America or Thousand Trails, check for discounts. They often save 20-30%.
• Arrive Early: Check-in is typically 1 PM, but arriving before noon helps secure better parking angles for long RVs.

Remember, the "largest" title comes with responsibility. Respect quiet hours (usually 10 PM to 8 AM). Use your own power cord if yours is old; pedestals can be finicky. And always, always confirm your reservation details via email a week before arrival. Mistakes happen, and you don’t want to show up to a full lot after a six-hour drive.

So, is Cherrywood RV Resort the right choice for you? If you value convenience, amenities, and social connection, absolutely. It’s the heavyweight champion of South Carolina campgrounds for a reason. Just know what you’re signing up for: a bustling, vibrant hub rather than a silent retreat.