Edisto Beach State Park Campground offers two distinct camping experiences on South Carolina's coast. Located within the 1,255-acre maritime forest and salt marsh ecosystem, the park features both beachfront and maritime forest camping areas. The campground provides direct beach access with six designated pathways leading to the Atlantic shoreline and tidal flats.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing spots: Visitors can explore extensive marsh ecosystems on paddling excursions. At Edisto Beach State Park Campground, paddlers find calm waters suitable for beginners. "Weekend on the marsh w 3 dogs," notes Tori S., highlighting the peaceful setting for water activities.
Biking on paved trails: Several campgrounds feature cycling-friendly environments with protected paths away from traffic. "This campsite is perfect for riding bikes around," writes Aimee M. about her winter stay at Edisto Beach State Park Campground. Similarly, James Island County Park offers "several miles of paved walking/biking paths" according to Terry J.
Dolphin watching: Marine wildlife viewing opportunities abound along the intercoastal waterway. At Buck Hall Recreation Area, "We had a blast kayaking around and had some awesome dolphin encounters," reports one camper who enjoyed the waterway access.
What campers like
Access to water: Proximity to shorelines ranks high among camper preferences. "The Beach campground was just steps from the ocean. Opt for sites 1-12 or 50-75," advises Katie F. about Edisto Beach State Park Campground, adding that "shelling was incredible—especially if you walk towards the inlet around low tide."
Dog-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds accommodate pets with dedicated facilities. Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA features "a huge dog park" though one reviewer notes it's "quite far from the campers." The campground also offers "waste bags scattered throughout the park" according to Carlyne F.
Private sites: Campers appreciate secluded spots with natural buffers. "We love it. Trails for bike rides or walks. Close to beach. Great staff. Private campsites," writes Kevin A. about the Live Oak section at Edisto Beach State Park Campground, demonstrating the appeal of more sheltered camping options.
What you should know
Campsite selection strategy: Some campgrounds have significantly different site characteristics within the same facility. At Edisto Beach State Park Campground, Spencer S. notes a practical consideration: "Only negative dump site is a mile up main road." Another camper recommends: "Camp on the beach side."
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings heat and insects while winter offers more comfortable temperatures. At Givhans Ferry State Park Campground, one camper notes it "can be really hot in the summer with little breeze." Hurricane season impacts are also notable, with Sandy M. observing, "In all fairness we stayed at this campground in the hottest part of the summer at a time when they obviously had not finished cleaning up from a devastating hurricane."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds near Meggett. John W. reports about Givhans Ferry State Park Campground: "The only issue is no cell service at least for us and we use att and Google fi." This contrasts with other parks that maintain reliable connections.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities with children: Waterparks and splash zones provide controlled aquatic environments for families. James Island County Park features "a 50 foot climbing wall, obstacle challenge course," and "a Splash Zone Waterpark complete with two 200 foot waterslides, 500 foot long lazy river," reports one visitor.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Dedicated fishing areas for children exist at several campgrounds. Rocks Pond Campground & Marina is "perfect for kids - there's lots of places to go fishing, whether you are on a boat and want to venture further out, or don't want to leave land and just cast your line from one of the many points." One reviewer highlights that the campground even has "a dedicated fish pond and even a smaller pond that is just for the kiddos."
Playground accessibility: Play areas provide alternative recreation for younger campers. "There's a beach camping area and a wooded area. The option for RV or tent camping without all the excessive price," notes Karen G. about Edisto Beach State Park Campground, demonstrating the range of family accommodations available.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for varying ground conditions. At Point South KOA, staff attention to site maintenance receives positive mentions: "The gravel kept the camper clean; the deck with bench, table and chairs, gas fire pit was super nice." Another reviewer notes, "We saw the staff promptly re-leveling the sites after folks checked out."
Power supply options: Electric hookup specifications differ between campgrounds, requiring appropriate adapters. "Water is very close to front make sure you have enough hose," advises Kevin A. about site 94 at Edisto Beach State Park Campground, adding practical detail about utilities positioning.
Traffic and noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some RV parks. "It reminded me of an RV park, not a campground," notes one visitor about Point South KOA, while another mentions, "Our site was located close to the bathrooms and showers, which were very clean, and the gravel surfaces were even and looked well-kept."
