Charleston's coastal landscape creates unique camping environments with warm summers and mild winters. The area sits at low elevations, typically under 20 feet above sea level, with maritime forests and salt marshes defining the natural setting. Camping options extend beyond traditional tents and RVs, with various glamping accommodations including yurts located throughout the region.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Marion: Rocks Pond Campground & Marina offers direct lake access with a double boat launch and on-site fuel. "This RV park is massive and has immediate access to water for your boat, kayak or canoe. Shortly after entering, you'll only need to continue due straight until you reach the double boat launch," writes Stuart K., who appreciates that they "don't gauge you on the price of gasoline."
Fishing opportunities: Buck Hall Recreation Area provides multiple fishing spots with both freshwater and saltwater options. "We had a blast kayaking around and had some awesome dolphin encounters. The crabbing is great at the campground and we had a delicious crab boil as a result!" notes Bounding Around, who visited this campground along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Biking trails: James Island County Park offers extensive paved paths for cycling enthusiasts. Nick & Allyssa S. report: "Wonderful park with plenty of amenities! We stayed here in October when the water park/pool was closed, but there was still plenty to do with bike rentals and the outdoor adventure area."
What campers like
Dog-friendly amenities: Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA features extensive pet facilities. "There are waste bags scattered throughout the park and a huge dog park (But it's quite far from the campers)," according to Carlyne F., who appreciated the pet accommodations during their stay.
Outdoor adventure zones: James Island County Park has diverse recreational offerings beyond beach activities. Stuart K. describes: "Situated just north of where your RV is anchored is the Outdoor Zone featuring a 50 foot climbing wall, obstacle challenge course, 1K sq ft bouldering wall and slackline that will have you and your brood enjoying these backwoods in no time."
Wildlife viewing: Edisto Beach State Park provides opportunities to observe local fauna. Katie F. shares: "We had a magical time at Edisto. The Beach campground was just steps from the ocean. Opt for sites 1-12 or 50-75. Bathrooms were great. Shelling was incredible-especially if you walk towards the inlet around low tide."
What you should know
Yurt camping at Charleston area parks: While Edisto Beach State Park is known for its yurts, availability is limited and reservations should be made well in advance. "Amy and I have camped at the Live Oak section of the park multiple times (twice this year). We love it. Trails for bike rides or walks. Close to beach. Great staff. Private campsites," notes Kevin A.
Seasonal crowds and events: Some parks become extremely busy during holidays. At James Island County Park, Tim observes: "So I stayed during November and December... And coupled with the fact that they have a light show through the park. The traffic was incredible at night."
Site selection considerations: At Edisto Beach State Park, site location can significantly impact your experience. Regina S. advises: "we had a great spot to set up. the people that work there where super helpful when arriving. We did have a very short drive to the beach from our camp."
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Givhans Ferry State Park offers family-friendly layouts and facilities. Creighton C. recommends: "This campground has several shelters one with a fireplace at both ends. The tent camping area is awesome and has a great layout with lockable chuck boxes on each site along with power and water. There are several large fields to let the kids run wild."
Water parks and splash zones: James Island County Park features extensive water recreation for children. Stuart K. describes the amenities: "Splash Zone Waterpark complete with (2) 200 foot waterslides, 500 foot long lazy river, leisure pool & rainforest play structure, kid's playground as well as a boat house with kayak, pedal boat and canoe rentals."
Family-friendly site layouts: Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA has well-designed spaces for families. Crystal C. reports: "Camped at site 32 in mid-November and site and grounds were both beautiful and very well kept. Staff was extremely friendly and attentive. There was a nice walking/biking path around the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing and privacy: James Island County Park offers varied site options with differing privacy levels. Greg S. notes: "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."
Access to Charleston attractions: Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA provides convenient access to urban amenities. J Terrell M. appreciates: "Near downtown Charleston. Easy to get in and out. Reasonable rates. Near everything around Chai."
Weather considerations: RVers should prepare for potential flooding during heavy rains. Joel R. warns about James Island County Park: "We had 2 days of heavy rain and some sites flooded, but everything drained well."
