Dispersed camping opportunities near Camden, South Carolina cluster around Lake Wateree, a 13,864-acre reservoir with 242 miles of shoreline. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F between June and September, with high humidity making shade access important for tent campers. The region contains a mix of state park facilities, military recreation areas, and private campgrounds within 30 minutes of Camden.
What to do
Hiking trails: Poinsett State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems through diverse terrain. "The hiking was great! The camp sites were on the smaller side but opened up to a large field area where the kids and dog could run around and play," notes Marissa H. The park connects to larger trail networks for extended excursions.
Fishing spots: Lake access points at Sesquicentennial State Park Campground provide fishing opportunities year-round. "I love going to this campground, I enjoy doing the trails and spotting dear. And there is a small water play area for children. They have paddle boats also," says Ruth J. The 30-acre lake contains bass, bream and catfish.
Kayaking options: Several campgrounds offer water access points suitable for launching kayaks or canoes. "I camp at Sesqui very often. I live in downtown Columbia, so its only a short drive away. Love the bike and hiking trails. Very nice area to kayak in, I love all the Lilly pads," writes Tara M. Early mornings provide calmer water conditions for paddling.
What campers like
Lake swimming: Weston Lake Recreation Area provides designated swimming areas during summer months. "The campground was nice, the RV spaces had nice concrete pads and nice cabins," reports Bonnie C. However, note that "the dam is being worked on so you can only observe the lake, no swimming, boating, anything on the lake until repairs are completed."
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours offer the best opportunities for spotting local wildlife. "I enjoy doing the trails and spotting dear," mentions Ruth J. Birdwatching is particularly good during spring migration periods from March through May.
Quiet atmosphere: Falcons Nest FamCamp offers a serene environment among mature trees. "Very nice campground. Lots of trees. Must have access to Shaw AFB to stay," states Jeff B. Most dog friendly campgrounds near Camden maintain quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.
What you should know
Reservation needs: Popular sites fill quickly during spring and fall weekends. "This campground tends to be booked solid on weekends so important to make reservations," advises Ramona K. about camping near Lake Wateree.
Supply access: Limited retail options exist near many campgrounds. "Not much for stores close by so pack well. Oh and no alcohol sales on Sunday's in the county," notes one camper. Plan to bring necessary supplies, particularly pet food and specialty items.
Cell coverage: Service varies significantly between locations. "T mobile service doesn't work at all, but they have Wi-Fi hotspots for rent for $5 per day," reports Matt C. about Military Park Shaw AFB Wateree Recreation Area. "T mobile service worked well" at Weston Lake Recreation Area.
Military requirements: Several campgrounds require military affiliation. "Must have access to Shaw AFB to stay. $20 per night. No long term prices. No stay limit," explains Jeff B. about Falcons Nest FamCamp.
Tips for camping with families
Splash zones: Water play areas provide relief during hot summer days. "There is a small water play area for children. They have paddle boats also," mentions Ruth J. about Sesquicentennial. These areas typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Open play spaces: Lee State Park Campground offers fields adjacent to camping areas. "Awesome park with many trails and a pond for the kids to swim!" notes Chris S. These open areas allow for games without disturbing other campers.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger-led programs during summer months. "I took a group of 8 wild middle schoolers here and we had a blast hiking the trails, boating, and unplugging for a while!" shares CeCelia L. about Sesquicentennial State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds offer both sunny and shaded RV sites. "We stayed in lot #15 a couple weeks ago, and it was beautiful! Peaceful and restful is how I'd describe our experience," says Sally C. about camping near Lake Wateree.
Hookup configurations: At some locations, utility connections may require extensions. "I was in a spot that had the Hookups at opposite end of concrete pad and opposite side. I ended up buying an additional 20 ft. of dumping tubing ($60)," cautions Troy P. about Weston Lake.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "The roads had some serious potholes and the the campground doesn't seem to be on a regular maintenance schedule but it was clean," notes Bonnie C. Entrance roads to some recreation areas may require careful navigation for larger rigs.
