Recreation area

Hellhole Bay Wilderness

Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests · South Carolina — managed by USDA Forest Service

Open recreation area — no reservation needed

About this campground

Hellhole Bay Wilderness (2,125 ac) may take its name from a large forest opening possibly formed by early wildfire behavior in the area. A shallow canoe trail a little over a mile long and often less than a foot deep crosses the bay and is passable during the wetter times of the year. But in dryer months it becomes a muddy trail and can be difficult to hike. Heavy thick undergrowth, wet unstable ground and numerous water moccasins add to the challenges. There is no boat ramp but paddlers can access wilderness from Hell Hole Rd.  Explore this wilderness in winter and early spring to avoid biting insects and water moccasins. Take a compass and a good map, it is easy to get disoriented navigating the swamp.

Activities

  • HIKING
  • WILDLIFE VIEWING

Explore more South Carolina camping

Hellhole Bay Wilderness doesn't take campsite reservations — but plenty of nearby South Carolina campgrounds do, and we'll alert you the moment a sold-out site opens up.

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Details from Recreation.gov's official RIDB catalog. Conditions change — confirm with the managing office before you go. Not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.