Spring Break at Carolina Camp Cedar: A Family-Friendly Guide to Pickens + Easy Adventures
By admin February 6, 2026 Spring break doesn’t have to be a whirlwind. Here in the Carolina foothills, families can slow down, get outside, and still keep plans simple. Carolina Camp Cedar in Pickens, South Carolina makes it easy to do a little bit of everything—playground time and lakeside mornings on property, a pool break next door, and quick day trips to state parks, waterfalls, and a paved rail trail when you want to explore.
If you’re looking for a spring break that feels relaxed (but still fun), here’s how to plan it.
Why Pickens is a smart spring break home base
Pickens sits right where “small-town easy” meets “big nature.” In the spring, the foothills come alive—greener trails, comfortable hiking weather, and waterfalls that often run strong after seasonal rains. From Carolina Camp Cedar, you can keep your days flexible:
- Quick drives to standout outdoor spots like Table Rock State Park and Lake Jocassee access at Devils Fork State Park
- An easy rail-trail option on the Doodle Trail (great for bikes, scooters, and strollers)
- Simple “change of pace” trips to Clemson (about 30 minutes) or Greenville (about 30 minutes) when you want a campus stroll, a museum, or a bigger dinner lineup
Where to stay: RV sites or cabins (both work well for families)
Family-friendly RV sites
If your crew loves the classic campground rhythm—morning cocoa, evening campfires, and plenty of outdoor time—our RV sites are set up for an easy stay. Carolina Camp Cedar offers spacious back-in RV sites with full hookups (30/50 AMP power, water, and sewer), plus the things families actually use: a picnic table, outdoor grill, and a private fire pit at each site. Pads are approximately 20′ x 55′ concrete.
That means you can do the “after-adventure” routine without any fuss: shower, dinner at your site, and s’mores under the stars.
Cozy cabins with real convenience
If spring break means “outdoors by day, comfort at night,” our cabins are a great fit—especially with kids. Carolina Camp Cedar offers three cabin styles:
- Tannehill Cabin (Sleeps 6): private king bedroom, twin bunk beds, queen pullout sofa, vaulted ceilings with large windows, a luxury-style fully equipped kitchen, smart TV, covered porch, and a washer/dryer
- Coldwater Cabin (Sleeps 4): private king bedroom, queen pullout sofa, open-concept living/kitchen area, full-size kitchen appliances, smart TV, covered porch, and a washer/dryer
- Gardenia Cabin (Sleeps 4): a studio-style floor plan with a king bed and queen pullout sofa, full kitchen, smart TV, covered porch, and a washer/dryer
Cabins make it easy to keep snacks on hand, handle laundry mid-trip, and let the kids unwind while you enjoy a quieter evening on the porch.
On-site fun for low-stress days (no car required)
Some of the best spring break moments are the “in between” ones—when nobody is in a rush to load up the car. On property, families can keep it simple with:
- A playground for quick energy burns
- A scenic lake that’s perfect for slowing down and enjoying the view (with catch-and-release fishing)
- A dog park if your family travels with pups
- A camp store for snacks, drinks, ice, firewood, and the “we forgot that” essentials
- Laundry on-site (and washer/dryers in cabins) to keep the trip running smoothly
- Resort-style pool access next door when everyone needs a true “spring break” reset
And when you don’t want to cook? Tavern 53 is a short walk away—an easy dinner option after a trail day. (As always, please check current hours and menus before you go.)
Easy family day trips near Carolina Camp Cedar
1) The classic state park day: Table Rock State Park (about 25 minutes)
Table Rock is a spring favorite for good reason—views, trails, and that “mountain day” feeling without a long drive. For families, it’s easy to tailor the day: shorter trails and picnic time for younger kids, or a longer hike when you’ve got older ones who want a challenge.
Tip for spring break weekends: arrive earlier in the day for easier parking and a calmer start.
2) A “wow” moment with minimal planning: Sassafras Mountain Overlook (about 40–45 minutes)
If your family loves a big view with a short time commitment, Sassafras Mountain Overlook is a great add-on. It’s South Carolina’s highest point (3,553 feet) with a 360-degree observation tower and sweeping Blue Ridge views. It’s a memorable spring break stop—especially if you pair it with a picnic or an easy hike elsewhere.
3) Lake day, mountain-lake style: Devils Fork State Park / Lake Jocassee (about 50–60 minutes)
Devils Fork is the only public access to Lake Jocassee—known for clear water and waterfalls that spill right into the lake. It’s a full-day kind of adventure with options like swimming, paddling, hiking, and seasonal rentals/tours.
Tip: lake plans can be weather-dependent in spring. Check conditions and availability before you go.
4) An easy-active day: The Doodle Trail (Pickens ↔ Easley)
The Doodle Trail is a paved, family-friendly multi-use path that works well for bikes, scooters, and strollers. It’s a perfect “lighter day” between hikes—still outside, still fun, but not a full-day trek.
Make it a spring break win: ride/walk the trail in the morning, then head into town for lunch or a treat afterward.
5) Hands-on local history: Hagood Mill (about 15 minutes)
For a change of pace, Hagood Mill is a great family outing—part history, part “let’s explore.” If your visit lines up with a market day or special event, it can be an especially fun spring break addition. (Check their calendar before heading over.)
A simple 3-day spring break itinerary (copy/paste friendly)
Day 1: Arrival + an easy evening
- Check in and settle into your RV site or cabin
- Playground time and a lakeside walk
- Dinner at Tavern 53 (or grill at your site)
- Fire pit night: s’mores, stories, and an early bedtime if travel day was long
Day 2: Big outdoor day
- Head to Table Rock State Park
- Picnic lunch + trail time (choose what fits your kids’ ages and energy)
- Back to camp for a shower and downtime
- Evening: campfire dinner, porch time, or pool access next door
Day 3: Easy-active + local favorites
- Morning on the Doodle Trail
- Lunch in Pickens or Easley
- Afternoon at Hagood Mill (or a relaxed “do nothing” afternoon on property)
- Pack up slowly and enjoy one last lakeside moment before heading home
What to pack for foothills spring (family edition)
Spring is lovely here—but it’s also changeable. This short list keeps you comfortable without overpacking:
- Layers (cool mornings, warmer afternoons)
- Rain jackets (spring weather shifts happen)
- Comfortable walking shoes + a backup pair
- Reusable water bottles and easy trail snacks
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- Bike/scooter gear (helmets included) if you’re doing the Doodle Trail
- Campfire basics: roasting sticks, s’mores supplies, and a cozy blanket for night
Make spring break feel easy
That’s really the goal: a trip where you spend more time outside and less time coordinating. Carolina Camp Cedar gives families a relaxed place to land—RV sites and cabins with the practical comforts you want, plus playground, lake views, pool access next door, and quick day trips when you’re ready to explore.
When you’re ready, book your stay at Carolina Camp Cedar and check availability online. For the latest resort details and policies, please check our website and your confirmation email.
You Might Also Like
Must Read
