The landscape around Lancaster, South Carolina sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level in the state's northern Piedmont region. Summer temperatures frequently reach 95°F with high humidity, while winter lows occasionally drop below freezing. Campgrounds in this area provide access to Lake Wateree and nearby state parks, with most sites offering electric service to combat the region's summer heat.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Wateree: Wateree Lake RV Park & Marina provides direct lake access for anglers. "The beach area is super nice to spend a day on the water with your family," notes one camper, highlighting the recreational opportunities beyond fishing.
Hiking trails: Several parks offer walking paths suitable for different skill levels. At Cane Creek Park, "we take my two labs there almost every weekend for a good hike through the woods and they LOVE IT! A few of the trails are right on the lake and the dogs love to hop in and cool off," shares a regular visitor.
Kayaking and paddling: Lake access makes water sports popular during warmer months. "I load up my kayak once a month or so and paddle around the lake for hours," mentions a Cane Creek Park visitor. The lake has numerous coves to explore with rental options available at some facilities.
Mini golf and recreation: Family-friendly activities are available at certain parks. "The mini golf is free and a blast," notes a Cane Creek Park camper, mentioning this as one of several amenities that make longer stays enjoyable.
What campers like
Lake access: Waterfront campsites allow direct water access. At Andrew Jackson State Park Campground, "We stayed on site 16 right on the lake. Beautiful views. Our site was very steep, so took a lot to get level, but it was ok."
Peaceful environment: Many visitors appreciate the quieter nature of smaller campgrounds. "A nice little spot not far from Charlotte NC which doesn't seem as busy as other nearby campgrounds," notes one Andrew Jackson State Park visitor, highlighting its appeal as a quick getaway.
Security features: Some private RV parks provide additional security. The riverside area at Wateree Lake is "heavily wooded which provides a ton of shade on the hot summer days," while "Taylor Creek is newer with less trees providing lots of open space and great for Solar regeneration."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and grounds regularly receive positive mentions. At Ebenezer Park Campground, "Bathhouse was clean and well kept. We went around Halloween and they had trick-or-treating around the park as well as prizes for the best decorated."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Park itself has considerable construction going on with no alcohol access. However the campground was open and sites are nice and spacious," notes an Ebenezer Park visitor, highlighting the importance of checking current conditions.
Campsite sizing and leveling: Many sites require significant leveling equipment. At Andrew Jackson State Park, visitors mention the campground is "tight fit for our 30 foot camper," indicating larger RVs may face challenges.
Mixed camping experiences: Quality varies significantly between facilities. Crown Cove RV Park "seems to cater to long term residents" according to one visitor who found "a half paved parking lot and our lot was on a hill side which made using our full hookups going up hill."
Seasonal activities: Some amenities operate on limited schedules. "The swim area is only open on Saturdays or you can drive to the day use side and be over there," explains a Cane Creek camper about recreational facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Holiday activities: Special events enhance family visits during holidays. "Holidays usually have some activities for kids," notes a Cane Creek visitor, making these times especially appealing for families with children.
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas. One visitor mentions that Andrew Jackson State Park has "a wonderful playground" with "lots of trails but they get swampy after rain."
Wildlife awareness: Natural settings mean wildlife encounters are possible. A regular Andrew Jackson visitor warns about "abundant wildlife including copperheads," suggesting families with small children should maintain awareness.
Swimming opportunities: Eden in Lancaster SC offers "a peaceful retreat" where visitors say it's "a great weekend escape from city life! A place to recharge and unplug from everyday life. There's alot to do here and tons of other outdoor activities within a few minutes' drive."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many rv sites near Lancaster, South Carolina aren't designed for larger rigs. "Navigation with a larger RV would be difficult," cautions an Andrew Jackson State Park visitor about their heavily wooded sites.
Full hookup availability: Pumphouse Road RV Park offers 48 sites with both 30-amp and 50-amp service options, accommodating various RV electrical needs with sewer hookups and a dump station.
Long-term vs. short-term options: Some campgrounds primarily serve different markets. At Elmore RV Park, "I lived here for two years on a long term spot. If short term you will be In a small gravel lot. There are no amenities, no shower houses. No frills."
Utility positioning: Site design affects hookup accessibility. Crown Cove visitors mention challenges with "our lot was on a hill side which made using our full hookups going up hill," highlighting the importance of understanding site layout before arrival.
