J
Josh J.
Scout
ScoutHalfway Creek Primitive Camping - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
Can’t camp in this location
No camping signs all over the place and the old sites are now fenced off
Camping near Charleston, SC
62 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Several good camping spots surround Charleston, with many campers choosing Edisto Beach State Park Campground for its beachfront sites and quick Atlantic Ocean access. Santee State Park sits on Lake Marion and has room for both tents and RVs across its grounds. Hiking trails wind through Santee, where you might spot local wildlife while walking. Charleston's camping benefits from being close to historical attractions and the lively downtown, letting you mix outdoor time with city visits. Most local campgrounds have basic facilities like restrooms, showers, and places to eat outdoors. You can camp around Charleston throughout the year thanks to the mild weather, though summer brings high humidity and you might encounter thunderstorms. It's worth checking the weather forecast before heading out, especially during storm season. The camping areas near Charleston range from beach settings at Edisto to the quieter lake environment at Santee, giving you different options depending on what you prefer.
Best Campgrounds near Charleston (62)
1. Campground at James Island County Park
"When making reservations at James Island County Park we had modest expectations, but we were going to tour Charleston most of the time, so we decided anything close to the city would be good enough."
"Awesome dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs, a water park, climbing wall, bike/walking path and much more. Close to historic Charleston and Folly Beach."
from $43 - $269 / night
Check Availability2. Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA
"There was a nice walking/biking path around the campground and downtown Charleston and Isle of Palms beaches were both close by. We are already planning a return trip."
"It had a pool, camp activities, hiking/nature trail. It was extremely clean and the staff was friendly. It has a lake for fishing and water activities, a dog park."
from $68 - $300 / night
Check Availability3. Lake Aire RV Park
"The location was close to John’s Island and 25 minutes from downtown Charleston. Hassle free camping at its best."
"My wife and I were visiting our son at Charleston AFB, and we spent a week and a half at Lake Aire. We couldn't have been happier with the campground."
4. Oak Plantation Campground
"Very close to Charleston."
"Beautiful location! Easy spots to get in and out of, not on top of each other. Great WiFi. Super pleasant and helpful staff. Clean bathrooms, Nice dog run, great food truck."
5. Hanscombe Point Campground
"The campsite is at the edge of a livestock pasture, though most of the sites are within a pine grove with a dense floor of needles and cones. "
"Staff is friendly, it’s hidden on the water but close to town if you want to enjoy all the gems of Charleston."
from $30 / night
Check Availability6. Military Park Joint Base Charleston Outdoor Recreation Center
"This is a military-only campground on Charleston AFB."
"Most all sites are paved and easy access to downtown Charleston 🏝 you will here jets taking off and landing with the occasional gun fire from the firing range."
from $23 / night
Check Availability7. Charleston KOA
"It is clean and close to shopping and close enough to Charleston which is full of history with lots of touristy things to do."
"We wanted to stay close to Charleston and be able to visit the beach, but all the beach campgrounds were full, so we found this KOA."
8. Remleys Point Public Boat Launch
9. Edisto Beach State Park Campground
"It's South Carolina in the summer, so there are mosquitoes."
"Lots of places close by to visit. Only about a 45 min drive to Charleston. Botany Bay was a fantastic experience."
10. Foster Creek RV Park and Villas
"IF you meet the qualifications to stay (military affiliated), this is REALLY close to the Navy Nuke School!"
Drive Time
- 1 hr 34 min from Sumter, SC
- 1 hr 41 min from Myrtle Beach, SC
- 1 hr 50 min from Savannah, GA
- 1 hr 51 min from Hilton Head Island, SC
Recent Camping Photos near Charleston, SC
147 Photos of 62 Charleston Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Campground at James Island County ParkM
Military Park Joint Base Charleston Outdoor Recreation Center
Oak Plantation Campground
Hanscombe Point Campgroundm
Lake Aire RV Park
Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA
Caper's Island
Halfway Creek - Dispersed Camping
Halfway Creek Primitive Camping - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
Givhans Ferry State Park Campground
Buck Hall Recreation Area
Edisto Beach State Park CampgroundT
Recent Reviews near Charleston, SC
501 Reviews of 62 Charleston Campgrounds
Stacey R.
TravelerBuck Hall Recreation Area
Great location for Shrimping
Most campers are here to go out shrimping. It’s a beautiful, small campground with level sites, some shade, electric and water hookups and tent sites right along the water. The bathroom could use an update but it was very clean and the shower was roomy and hot enough. A dump station is available. I understand the park will close after shrimp season (mid November..?) for updates. I lucked out on a first come, first serve site for the night. I’d definitely stay here again.
Stuart K.
LegendTaylor's Landing
Off The Beaten Path
You’ll find this hidden campground VERY far off the beaten trail (and trust me, this trail is as beaten up a road as you’ll find just about anywhere in South Carolina, so you'll want to drive down the lane here SLOW) on the easternmost side of Lake Marion off Ferguson Landing in southeastern part of the great Palmetto State. Given its direct access to Lake Marion, the place gets high marks for its location, but lower marks for overall upkeep and the basic downtrodden nature of the place. You’ll be impressed by the shallow water access and boat launch here, where you’ll have to maneuver around scores of submerged Cypress trees, which makes for quite the enchanting entry to Lake Marion, which if you weren’t aware, offers up 315 miles of shoreline, spans 110,000 square acres or 174 square miles and is the largest lake in South Carolina.
That said, IMHO Taylor’s Landing could use a serious bit of refurbishment and grooming, including the grounds themselves, which were quite overgrown when we stopped by. There is a general store of sorts on-site that sells sundries, ice and most camping needs as well as providing propane tanks for sale. Overall, this place is built more for the RV’ing crowd, although they do offer a few places for tent campers, but don’t offer much in terms of amenities. There was a communal dog area that was pretty worn down right near the area designated for tent camping, which given that most of the dog owners didn’t take their dogs for a walk, the smell emanating from this area was enough for us to decide not to camp here for the night. The entire CG is wide open without any benefit of shade or privacy between sites, although the perimeter has a nice treeline.
Insider’s tip? Here’s a few: (1) If you are a history buff, then you’ll be lured nearby to discover the Sunken Ghost Town of Ferguson, which was once a Congaree Indian Village, which we could access with our kayaks to explore; (2) There is a sandy beachhead that you’ll discover on one of the few trails you’ll come across here at Taylor’s Landing; (3) From an entertainment standpoint, this CG does offer up some interesting creative options during different times of the year – when we were there during the latter part of October, they offered up a ‘Trail of Terror’ for Halloween; (4) If you want to get your hike on, right nearby is Santee Cooper Nature Trail, which makes for some relative easy-to-modest hiking; (5) There’s nothing out in these parts, so if you want to grab a bite to eat, you’ll need to head back to Eutawville where there’s a few mom & pop joints like Tricia’s Café, Sweatman’s BBQ and Casters at Bells; (6) The fishing dock here is solid and offers great opportunity to reel in largemouth bass, catfish, striped bass, crappie and panfish like bluegill; and (7) The best asset here at Taylor's Landing is the fairly EZ to access boat launch that will have you in Lake Marion in no time flat, whether you have a motorized boat or a simple kayak or canoe.
Overall, Taylor's Landing could be a nice place, just in dire need of some upgrades and overall maintenance.
Happy Camping!
Natalie T.TravelerMount Pleasant-Charleston KOA
One of the best!
We were traveling with two large dogs and looking for a pet friendly site. This is a people friendly site so many game playing areas swimming pool and clean manicured lawns with a lake view on some sites.
- mmari S.
GuideRemleys Point Public Boat Launch
No overnight here
Beautiful site at boat ramp but singns everywhere no camping no overnight
- BBarbara S.Guide
Campground at James Island County Park
Busy but fun!
We stayed here while attending the Highwater Music Festival. We brought our bikes, but it’s not safe to ride out if the campground to the festival or the beach, so we drove them to a spot outside of the grounds and then ride from there.
So much to do inside this campground and park! It was very busy, but we didn’t feel it was too loud - still plenty of opportunity to enjoy nature.
- Stuart K.Legend
Harry's Fish Camp
A True South Carolina Fish Camp Experience
If you're looking for a rustic RV depot on the water's edge with limited amenities, but an absolutely pristine view of Lake Marion, Harry's Fish Camp is a great spot, as long as your expectations are managed, as this is more of an outdoor fishing paradise than it is a polished RV resort. So if your idea of the perfect camping trip starts with launching the boat before sunrise, spending the day chasing trophy catfish and striped bass on the legendary Lake Marion and returning to camp for a fresh seafood dinner overlooking the water, you'll feel right at home. Tucked away in the quiet community of Pineville, Harry's is one of those classic Santee Cooper fish camps that has earned its reputation through generations of anglers rather than flashy marketing. The atmosphere is relaxed, authentic and refreshingly unpretentious.
The campground caters to both RV campers and anglers, offering full-hookup RV sites, bathhouse facilities, showers, laundry, a dump station and pet-friendly accommodations. The real stars, however, are the waterfront amenities: two boat ramps, four fishing piers, a fish-cleaning station with running water and electricity, a well-stocked tackle shop and convenient boat storage. There's also a sandy swimming beach nearby with a designated swimming area for families looking to cool off after a day on the water. While the campground isn't luxurious, it delivers exactly what its guests come for: easy access to some of the best freshwater fishing in the Southeast.
Harry's location places you in the heart of the famed Santee Cooper lake system, encompassing more than 170,000 acres of world-class fishing and boating opportunities. Whether you're targeting largemouth bass, catfish, crappie or striped bass, you're launching directly into one of the country's premier freshwater fisheries. Birdwatchers and paddlers will also appreciate the surrounding cypress swamps and quiet backwaters. If you need supplies, Billy's General Store is just a short drive away for fuel, groceries and last-minute essentials, while Harry's own restaurant is well known locally for its fried catfish and traditional Southern cooking.
Insider's tips? Here's a handful: (1) Arrive early if you're planning to launch a boat during peak fishing weekends as this place turns into a 'traffic jam' on the water from 8am onwards; (2) If available, request one of the waterfront campsites for easy access to the marina and beautiful sunrise views; (3) Bring plenty of bug spray during the warmer months as mosquitoes can be incredibly active around the marshes; (4) Don't leave without trying the fried catfish dinner at Harry's restaurant ... trust me, it's part of the whole experience while staying here; (5) If you're bringing your own boat, take advantage of the on-site fish-cleaning station before heading home; and (6) If you're visiting for several days, consider hiring one of the area's experienced fishing guides to learn the seasonal patterns of the Santee Cooper lakes.
Happy Camping!
Lucinda P.ScoutLake Aire RV Park
Avoid Lake Aire Campground!
My husband had a course to take in the Charleston area and we booked Lake Aire Campground from June 15- 20 while he attended that course. What a disappointment Lake Aire CG turned out to be. The two designated dump stations were not working therefore two RV sites were set up for that. Neither of them were easy to get to upon leaving the campground. The bathrooms were not that clean, nor was the laundry facility. We don't use the showers, etc. on site, but we judge the way a campground is run on whether these facilities are kept clean and tidy. According to the full-time resident next to our site, the washers and dryers are often out of order. The pool was not open either. We couldn't wait to leave and did so a day early. Lake Aire in general is run-down and in need of better management.
- MMaggie C.Legend
edisto state park
Beachfront camping
The beach campground has Nice campsites just behind the dunes. State park staff are very responsive and so kind. Access to the beach is ADA approved with the blue access mats. You can also drive your gold cart to the beach to set up your stuff. Bathrooms are clean and showers are hot! No shade at most of the sites and it is very windy here.
Guide to Charleston
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there tent-only camping options in Charleston, SC?
Are there tent-only camping options in Charleston, SC?
Yes, there are several excellent tent camping options near Charleston. Givhans Ferry State Park Campground offers an outstanding tent camping area with a thoughtful layout, lockable chuck boxes at each site, and both power and water access. For a more primitive experience, Honey Hill Recreation Area provides basic tent camping in a peaceful pine/oak forest setting about 30 minutes north of Charleston. The semi-primitive environment offers a more secluded experience for tent campers looking to disconnect. While many campgrounds accommodate both RVs and tents, these locations are particularly well-suited for tent camping enthusiasts.
What are the best campgrounds near Charleston, SC for first-time visitors?
What are the best campgrounds near Charleston, SC for first-time visitors?
First-time visitors to Charleston should consider Campground at James Island County Park for its proximity to the city and excellent amenities. This campground offers a perfect base for exploring Charleston while providing a comfortable camping experience with full hookups. Another excellent option is Buck Hall Recreation Area, located about 40 minutes northeast of Charleston along the beautiful intercoastal waterway in Francis Marion National Forest. During peak seasons, reservations are essential at both locations to secure your spot. Each offers distinct advantages: James Island for convenience to city attractions, and Buck Hall for a more natural coastal experience.
What are the costs for camping in Charleston, South Carolina?
What are the costs for camping in Charleston, South Carolina?
Camping costs around Charleston vary based on amenities and location. At Colleton State Park Campground, rates are typically reasonable for state parks, with riverside sites offering excellent value. Edisto Beach State Park Campground provides both ocean and marsh side camping options at different price points, with oceanside generally commanding premium rates. Most public campgrounds in the area range from $20-50 per night depending on season and hookups available. Private RV parks like Lake Aire or Foster Creek typically charge higher rates but offer more amenities. Many campgrounds also have additional fees for park entry or premium waterfront locations. Booking in advance often secures better rates, especially during peak tourist season.
Is car camping allowed at campgrounds around Charleston, SC?
Is car camping allowed at campgrounds around Charleston, SC?
Yes, car camping is widely permitted at campgrounds around Charleston. Short Stay Navy Outdoor Moncks Corner offers car camping with sites that allow you to park directly at your campsite on Lake Moultrie, just a short drive from Charleston. Hunting Island State Park Campground, while slightly further (about an hour from Charleston), is another excellent option where you can camp with your vehicle very close to the beach. Most established campgrounds in the region permit parking at or near your campsite, though some primitive areas may have designated parking areas a short distance from tent sites. Always check specific campground rules when booking, as some locations have restrictions on vehicle types or parking arrangements.
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