With gas prices soaring and rumors swirling that the price per gallon will rise to $6 in the next few months, families are choosing to stay a little closer to home than usual this summer, and probably all year.

In the Upstate of South Carolina, residents have long been spoiled to have some of the best vacation and get-away spots within just a couple hours drive. The mountains are just up the road. The ocean is just a few hours east. There are two major metropolitan cities within two hours north or south. And even the Midlands can offer some great shopping and indoor attractions.

What does this have to do with the outdoors? Well, The Official Camping Club just announced its top 100 campgrounds based on criteria that almost every family looks for, and seven of them come from South Carolina or Georgia. By the way, all of them are practically in the average Upstater’s own backyard.

So, while we have covered some of the best camping available according to other sources, The Official Camping Club factors in who has the best bike trails, beaches, scenic views and much, much more.

And the winners are. …

SOUTH CAROLINA

Aiken State Natural Area — 1145 State Park Road, Windsor, SC; 803.649.2857

Aiken is a 1,000-acre area set among the South Edisto River. At just a couple hours drive from Anderson, the Aiken State Natural Area is said to be for the “budding naturalist” and perfect for families of any size. There is plenty of fishing, kayaking or canoeing, hiking and more to be had. It does cost $2 to get in, and there are 25 campsites on the grounds.

Calhoun Falls State Recreation Area — 46 Maintenance Shop Road, Calhoun Falls, SC; 864.447.8267

Located in Abbeville County, Calhoun Falls State Recreation Area is just down the road from Anderson and boasts some great fun for everyone. While only a little more than 300 acres, this area is known for fine fishing as well as quality camping, hiking, swimming and even sports (there is a tennis court on site). Even a day of picnicking is worth the 30-plus minute drive down Calhoun Falls way. There is a $2 admission fee, and there are three campgrounds available.

Hamilton Branch State Recreation Area — 111 Campground Road, Plum Branch, SC; 864.333.2223

At 731 acres, Hamilton Branch is located off Lake Thurmond, only one hour or so from Anderson. It houses 140 campsites that make camping the obvious choice for semi-travelers, and it is ideal for fishing, swimming and any other water activity your little mind can think of. Again, a $2 admission applies, and you should call for reservations on the campgrounds.

Keowee-Toxaway State Natural Area — 108 Residence Drive, Sunset, SC; 864.868.2605

While its neighbor, Devils Fork Park, gets much of the attention, Keowee-Toxaway is one of the most beautiful spots to take the family. This park features a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, great hiking and camping, and there are even cabins to rent for those not wanting to rough it. And the kicker: admission is free.

Paris Mountain State Park — 2401 State Park Road, Greenville, SC; 864.244.5565

Most people are well aware of Paris Mountain’s beach, hiking, biking, picnic areas, campgrounds, educational services and more. But did you know … ? Oh, you probably did. Well, what about … ? Oh, you knew that, too. Well, there is not much to say about Paris Mountain that you don’t know. But it’s still only a 45-minute drive from Anderson, and it’s worth it every time.

Table Rock State Park — 158 E Ellison Lane, Pickens, SC; 864.878.9813

Table Rock is another park with a reputation that precedes it. There are more than 3,000 acres of park, two lakes and enough to do to keep the most hyperactive kids busy for a month, let alone a week. This park also has a ton of camping available and a few cabins for those not looking to rough it that much. It also charges two bucks there, and you should call for availability.

GEORGIA

Watsadler Campground — 286 Watsadler Road, Hartwell, Ga.

There is something to be said for a campground where 49 of the 51 sites are waterfront. Actually, there is a lot to be said for that. But rather than listen to someone drone on and on about it, just go and experience the hiking, biking, boating and fishing for yourself. It’s right by the Hartwell Dam and only a 30-minute drive from Anderson.