Charleston campgrounds offer convenient access to the city while placing campers in diverse natural settings from maritime forests to lakeside environments. Most camping areas sit at low elevations, typical of coastal South Carolina, with the highest points rarely exceeding 20 feet above sea level. The regional camping season runs year-round, though winter temperatures can dip into the 40s at night from December through February.
What to do
Explore Fort Sumter: When staying at Oak Plantation Campground, you're positioned well for historical exploration. "The campground is very large and spacious and many sites have mature trees. Bathhouses are clean, although they are older," notes Joan, who camped here recently.
Visit local beaches: From James Island County Park, you can access nearby beaches within 15-20 minutes. One camper reports, "It's very kid friendly. They have an awesome park. Can't wait to go back," while another mentions it's "near downtown Charleston. Easy to get in and out."
Wildlife viewing: At Edisto Beach State Park Campground, dedicated nature trails provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. A camper notes, "Trails for bike rides or walks. Close to beach. Great staff. Private campsites," highlighting the dual appeal of nature and beach access.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA offers well-spaced camping areas. "Located only 15 minutes from downtown Charleston and 10 minutes from Shem creek this campground is gorgeous and spacious. They offer kayak and bike rentals. There's a beautiful lake that allows catch and release fishing," explains one camper.
Water activities: Many Charleston area campgrounds feature water access. At the Mount Pleasant KOA, one camper found that "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."
Dog-friendly options: Multiple Charleston campgrounds welcome pets. A camper at Lake Aire RV Park mentioned, "Nice place to walk the dogs. Nice pond for fishing," highlighting multiple recreational possibilities.
What you should know
Weather planning: Summer brings heat and humidity, with temperatures regularly reaching 90°F from June through August. A camper at Lake Aire notes, "The grounds were clean and well maintained. The pool was lively with guests having good fun and conversation."
Reservation timing: Many Charleston campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons (March-May and September-November). "Our visit here was peaceful, quiet and enjoyable. Will go back," notes a camper, indicating the appeal that drives demand.
Insect preparation: Bug spray is essential year-round but especially during warmer months. At Hanscombe Point Campground, a camper observed, "It was breezy so we didn't have any issues with 'no-see-ums' or 'sand gnats' but I would imagine on a still day they would be bad."
Traffic patterns: Charleston area traffic can significantly impact travel times. "Drive time listed to Charleston is very low, due to severe traffic congestion in the region. Not the farm's doing, but it took us 45 min to the city in the mornings (~9:30AM) and usually an hour plus back at night," reports a Hanscombe Point camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Edisto Beach State Park Campground provides designated play areas for children. One visitor noted, "We camped here during the winter and had fun. This campsite is perfect for riding bikes around."
Educational opportunities: Many Charleston area campgrounds serve as bases for historical learning. At Mount Pleasant KOA, campers appreciate "a free wagon ride to a nearby plantation a couple of times a week," creating opportunities for cultural education.
Animal experiences: At Hanscombe Point Campground, children can observe farm animals. A camper shared, "The campsite is at the edge of a livestock pasture... Would be a delightful site for small children to watch animals (cows, pigs, sheep) once they are trained not to step on the numerous cow pies."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At James Island County Park, experienced RVers recommend specific locations. "IMHO the best slots in this RV exclusive campground are those on the perimeter with the best sites being the ones without anything behind them, specifically on the NW periphery with sites #46 - 55."
Leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have challenges with level sites. One Oak Plantation camper noted, "Our site had a concrete pad but the concrete pad was broken up into large pieces of concrete which makes it hard to level."
Amenity access: Most Charleston campgrounds offer full hookups, though quality varies. "Nice RV Site if you are visiting Charleston, South Carolina. The site is very hot due to no trees. Currently the restrooms and showers are down, so you need to have a self contained unit," advises an RV camper from Foster Creek RV Park.
