Paddle into a quiet section of the Lynches River to spend the night on a screened platform above the bank. This primitive, paddle-in campsite offers a sheltered sleeping area, a porch view, and a campfire—no electricity or potable water included.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push off from a low, muddy landing and the river narrows into a quiet green corridor. Cypress knees puncture the mirror of the Lynches; tupelo leaves flick in the current. The platform appears like a simple porch lifted above the bank: a 15'x15' screened room with a wood-slat floor, a firepit downriver, and a porch that frames the moving sky.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
20 hours (overnight)
Fitness Level
Moderate cardiovascular fitness and ability to paddle 1–3 miles with a loaded kayak or canoe; capable of lifting gear to a platform.
Wildlife
History
The Lynches River corridor is part of the SC Revolutionary Rivers trail; the swampy channels were hiding places for Revolutionary War partisan Francis Marion, known as the "Swamp Fox."
Conservation
This is a fragile blackwater ecosystem—use Leave No Trace, pack out all waste, and avoid disturbing shorelines and aquatic vegetation to protect water quality and habitat.
Reserve your spot on the Overnight at Riverside Platform Campsite today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a water filter or carry enough water
There’s no potable water at the platform—plan for at least 2–3 liters per person plus a filtration option for backfill.
Expect bugs at dusk
Use a headnet and DEET or picaridin; the screened room helps, but evenings can be buggy.
Stove or fire safety
Only use the designated firepit for cooking and adhere to any local burn restrictions—bring a windproof stove as backup.
Paddle with a spare
Bring a spare paddle, flotation, and a small repair kit—riverbed snags and flipped boats are possible in narrow channels.
Kayak or canoe (rental possible)
Primary means of access—stable, load-bearing boat recommended for camping gear.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Required for safety on moving water and often mandatory by outfitters.
Compact sleeping bag and pad
A warm, compressible bag and insulating pad keep you comfortable on the screened platform.
Water filter or purification tablets
No potable water on site—treat river or bring sufficient treated water.