Laurel Oaks Estate in Conway, South Carolina, has been recognized as one of the state’s top camping destinations by Hipcamp, an online platform that connects travelers with campsites across the United States.
The recognition is based on Hipcamp’s 2024 review data, which considered campsites with at least five bookings and a 95% or higher recommendation rating. Laurel Oaks Estate was included on the platform’s list of the top 20 campsites in South Carolina.
Located at 4025 Copperhead Road, the property offers a range of accommodations, including two yurts, a converted horse trailer, and a cabin.
The site opened in spring 2020, after owners Krystl and her husband shifted from their original plan of establishing a wedding venue to focus on camping options when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted events.
“We wanted to come and bring something like that to Conway,” Schmidt said. She added that the recognition was meaningful after years of work. “It was definitely an honor, a blessing. We put a lot of work into it, so it felt nice to be honored.”
The glamping experience at Laurel Oaks Estate includes amenities such as heating and air conditioning in the tents, private bathhouses, and outdoor kitchens. The smaller tent sleeps two and includes a deck with rocking chairs, a mini fridge, and a gas grill.
According to The Sun News, the larger tent accommodates four with two beds, an outdoor kitchen, and a private bathhouse.
The converted horse trailer, permanently set on the property, sleeps three and includes a kitchenette, queen bed, couch, and access to outdoor amenities such as a fire pit and hammocks.
A two-bedroom cabin offers indoor features like a full kitchen and television, as well as outdoor space for gatherings.
The property also features two horses and a donkey, and Schmidt has indicated plans to introduce horseback riding in the future. With stalls and a pasture available, the site can also host guests traveling with their own horses.
For outdoor hospitality operators, the growth of Laurel Oaks Estate underscores a broader trend in diversification. Businesses originally focused on weddings or events have found resilience by adding glamping or RV options, catering to travelers seeking unique experiences.
As the market continues to evolve, blending event space with camping accommodations may offer operators new avenues for revenue and guest engagement.
Featured image by Laurel Oaks Estate via laureloaksestate.com