The Awendaw area sits along the Francis Marion National Forest boundary, with pine and hardwood forests meeting coastal marshland. Summer temperatures can exceed 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall more comfortable for tent campers. Water access sites provide relief from heat with coastal breezes throughout the camping season.
What to do
Wagon rides to plantation sites: Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA offers free wagon rides to a nearby plantation. "Our fave was the wagon ride to the plantation next door," notes Angela M., who appreciated the historical context during her stay at the campground.
Fishing opportunities: At Rocks Pond Campground & Marina, various fishing spots accommodate all skill levels. "There's lots of places to go fishing, whether you are on a boat and venture further out, or don't want to leave land and cast your line from one of the many points at this campground—there's a fishing pier, a dedicated fish pond and even a smaller pond just for the kiddos," according to Stuart K.
Hiking forest trails: The Palmetto Trail system connects with Buck Hall Recreation Area, allowing hikers to experience maritime forest environments. "Hiking a section of the Palmetto Trail is a good option for a day out of the sun due to the heavy maritime forest canopy," reports Eric K., who recommends fall, spring and winter as the best seasons.
Visit wildlife centers: The red wolves at the Sewee Visitor Center offer educational viewing opportunities. "The nearby Sewee Visitor Center has red wolves and is free to visit. They also have RV parking! We enjoyed this, but if you have kids I think it would be a must do," recommends Bounding Around from their Buck Hall stay.
What campers like
Coastal wildlife sightings: James Island County Park offers diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "Our site was very close to the lake and we had a great view. The lake had a little dock and we my husband and son fished off of it. There were alligators in the lake and they actually caught one," shares Ashley W.
Family amenities: Multiple parks provide child-friendly recreation areas. "There's a beautiful lake that allows catch and release fishing. Some tent sites and cabin sites are right along the water and offer nice views. There's a one mile loop trail through the woods and along the lake. There are multiple playgrounds and many kid friendly activities," notes Carlyne F. about Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA.
Intracoastal Waterway access: For boaters and kayakers, Buck Hall Recreation Area provides direct water access. "Excellent place to trailer your boat, cook over a campfire, and have a shower to wash the salt off at the end of the day. Views of the Intracoastal waterway are nice, watching the variety of boats pass by," explains Eric K.
Uncrowded forest camping: Honey Hill Campground offers a more secluded glamping experience. "Very big campsite. You drive in and there's multiple campsites for your tent, Car or RV. There's a large clean toilet cabin. It's next to a tall tower," describes Alex R.
What you should know
Seasonal crowding: During shrimp baiting season, campgrounds fill completely. "During shrimp baiting season (60 days starting the Friday nearest September 15) the campground is completely booked. Plan accordingly!" warns Bounding Around about Buck Hall Recreation Area.
Facility maintenance varies: Some campgrounds experience maintenance issues during certain periods. "Only reason I am not giving this campground 5 stars is that the bathrooms were pretty gross. They were working on them while we were there so maybe there is a brighter future for these run down bath houses," notes Bounding Around.
Insect protection required: The coastal location means insect activity is significant. "Don't forget your bug-spray, mosquitos are aggressive here," warns Werner S. about Buck Hall.
Weather considerations: Winter camping offers advantages for those seeking quieter experiences. "Camped at site 32 in mid-November and site and grounds were both beautiful and very well kept. We are already planning a return trip," shares Crystal C. about her Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA experience.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Edisto Beach State Park provides family-friendly water access. "Steps from the ocean. We had a magical time at Edisto. Bathrooms were great. Shelling was incredible—especially if you walk towards the inlet around low tide," shares Katie F.
Kid-specific activities: Several glamping sites close to Awendaw, South Carolina feature dedicated children's amenities. "The park offered fishing, kayak/canoe/paddle boat and paddle board rentals. They also had a free wagon ride to a nearby plantation a couple of times a week," describes Ashley W. about James Island County Park.
Playground access: Multiple parks feature playgrounds for younger campers. "It had a pool, camp activities, hiking/nature trail. It has a lake for fishing and water activities, a dog park. It is very close to things around Charleston," reports Susan P. about Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA.
Biking opportunities: Paved paths offer safe family biking. "There was a nice walking/biking path around the campground and downtown Charleston and Isle of Palms beaches were both close by," notes Crystal C. from her Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA stay.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At James Island County Park, location matters for noise and access. "The sites aren't huge but are clean and convenient to camp store and trails. Our site was a pull through with some nice palmettos but not a lot of privacy. Best sites looked to be the 40s and 50s," advises Greg S.
Hookup availability: Givhans Ferry State Park provides RV amenities with natural surroundings. "30 foot trailer backed in no issues with plenty of room to pull truck in beside rig. They have some full hookup sites which is what I got. Most have water and electricity," reports John W.
Communication limitations: Cell service varies significantly across glamping areas near Awendaw. "Nice campsite, full hookups, enjoyed the lightning bugs, great place to enjoy camping and getting away from electronics since no cell phone signal for T-Mobile and no wifi in campground," notes Deborah L. about Givhans Ferry.
RV parking considerations: Some parks accommodate larger rigs more easily than others. "This campground is massive and has immediate access to water for your boat, kayak or canoe," explains Stuart K. about Rocks Pond Campground & Marina, noting the easy load-in and 30/50 amp hookups available.
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