3 campgrounds with availability this weekend
The Charleston area has several glamping campgrounds that blend comfort with outdoor living. Edisto Beach State Park contains two separate areas with safari tents and yurts equipped with real beds and temperature controls. You can walk to the beach from your glamping accommodation and spend days by the ocean. James Island County Park's campground has upgraded glamping sites with comfortable furniture beneath the trees. The park contains walking paths through the woods and a large area where dogs can run off-leash. You'll find good food options close by to complement your upscale stay. If you want to be closer to the city, the Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA has distinctive glamping structures that are a short drive from Charleston's historic district. Their sites include many comforts you wouldn't find at regular campsites. Glamping around Charleston lets you enjoy nature without giving up creature comforts. These luxury campgrounds provide the perfect balance between traditional camping and hotel amenities, with unique accommodations that make outdoor stays memorable.
"The bath house was recently remodeled and now has air conditioning. I found it to be one of the nicest bath facilities we have ever used."
"Sprawling park and campground right between Charleston and Folly Beach. There is a camp store which is well stocked and stays open till 8pm. The predominance of this campground is RV sites."
Available this weekend
from $43 - $269 / night
"Lots of walking areas and pet spots. Super close to everything you could ever need, but deep enough into the woods to feel that break away from the noise of the road."
"Staff was extremely friendly and attentive. There was a nice walking/biking path around the campground and downtown Charleston and Isle of Palms beaches were both close by."
from $68 - $300 / night
"It's South Carolina in the summer, so there are mosquitoes."
"Some sites are full sun, and as it was around 100 degrees every day, that could be a problem for some. It’s right on the edge of the town so it’s easy to walk or bicycle around."
Available this weekend
"IF you meet the qualifications to stay (military affiliated), this is REALLY close to the Navy Nuke School!"
"I'm an Army Veteran and recently stay at the FAMP CAMP Located on the Joint Base Air Force Base located in Charleston S.C. "
"The boat launch is walking distance from the campground and has a nice picnic area adjacent to it. We watched a pods of pelicans and dolphins come through the area, as well as many other sea birds."
"28 a night for Electricity; $18 for tent sites.
Mostly middle age & older campers; primarily boaters/fishermen as there is a boat ramp at this site."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $20 - $45 / night
"Small campground not far from Charleston and very close to Bee City Zoo. This campground has several shelters one with a fireplace at both ends."
"The bathroom and water source is nearby, as well as a pavilion/shelter. There are three sections, with multiple areas for camping in each one. Each has 2-3 tables and a fire ring. "
Available this weekend
"Loud highway noise, but tolerable. Tall trees everywhere. Very pretty! No rock or concrete pad to park on so be prepared to level your RV. Bathrooms/showers are clean and large. Pleasant staff."
"Quiet even tho close to I95.
We will be back when we head up from FL. Price very reasonable. Walk to Cracker Barrel."
"You drive in and there's multiple campsites for your tent, Car or RV. There's a large clean toilet cabin (not a basic privy).
It's next to a tall tower.
Fire area with picnic table."
GuideWe love the Live oaks campground in Edisto Beach State Park. Level sites with plenty of privacy. We are in site 120 this trip and we have stayed in sites 118 and 122 on previous trips. these sites back onto the salt marsh which gives you some incredible scenery just behind the site
GuideMost 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.
TravelerWe 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.
GuideWe 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.
GuideThis is our absolute favorite campsite of all time! It is very private and secluded, but right around the corner from the beach. It is for tents and small campers only, as we barely had enough room to get our pop up backed up in the site with the truck. The site slopes up, evens out, and then slopes right back down to the fire ring and picnic table. Our pop up is a 10-foot box and it was just enough room to get it on the level spot without sloping one way or the other. It was also just wide enough for our awning to be set out with a little room to walk around. Once situated, there is plenty of room at the picnic table and fire ring to sit around and park bikes, etc.
There is plenty of shade and you can hear the waves crashing on the beach. The site also has water and electric hookups, but we try to bring our own water since you can still taste the salt. It is so relaxing!
This is on the Beach Campground and the only problem we noticed it is that the outdoor shower for washing off sand from the beach has low visibility because it is on the road side of the bathhouse and not the beach side. The result is people clogging up the showers with sand because they don't even see the outdoor shower in some cases.
The park has some amazing nature trails to bike and hike as well as a nice educational nature center.
We always enjoy our stay here and will definitely continue to book here as long as we can.
GuideThere are actually TWO bases here - the air base and the weapons station. We stayed at the air base but also visited the weapons station for some recreation.
Air base: close to downtown Charleston; great price for the amenities provided ($45 per night for full hookups - electric, water, and sewer); power/water pedestal was nice; shower and laundry facilities on site; all sites fairly level and mostly shady; playground, sand volleyball, golf, and indoor climbing wall within walking distance; beautiful trees, etc. All the normal base amenities, including bowling alley (check out galactic bowling if you have kids).
Staff was helpful. Camp host was… vigilant, but not super considerate with his leaf blowing pollen plumes around breakfasters.
Did not have pool. Fine.
DOES NOT HAVE FIRE RINGS. Or a grill. That was a disappointment. You can BRING a fire ring. But of course no open burning.
Also, the sites are a smidge close together. But not overly so. Ask for a perimeter site and not a middle pull through if you're looking for a little extra green space between. (Not sure if they'll honor that or not.)
The weapons station also has an RV park. (Forgot to look and see if they have fire rings.) If you are a trail runner or hiker or similar, this is the one you want to go to. There's an excellent trail system right off the RV park. The air base did not. They have plenty of sidewalks to run but no trails. However, if you're there to see Charleston, you want to stay at the air base. The weapons station is further away from downtown.
As other reviewers have said, these options are both on military bases and require an ID to access.
TravelerWe stayed here for a week to attend a wedding. The place was well kept, nice and clean. Lots of walking areas and pet spots.
Super close to everything you could ever need, but deep enough into the woods to feel that break away from the noise of the road.
TravelerThis campground is the perfect blend of rustic and modern amenities! Beautiful shade trees, large sites, and full hookups. Shuttles to the beach and downtown Charleston. Perfect!
ScoutI'm an Army Veteran and recently stay at the FAMP CAMP Located on the Joint Base Air Force Base located in Charleston S.C. You will need to have a Military ID (Active Duty, Retired Military or Veteran) to access the base. It is a great and inexpensive place to camp. The sites all have electric hook up and water, even the tent sites as well as sites with FULL HOOK up. there are showers and laundry facilities, Play ground, tennis courts, Golf Course and Recreation Building with everything you would need to rent incase you forgo something. Staff is friendly and very helpful and welcoming. I recommend going to their web site to see all they have to offer. https://jbcharleston.com/famcamps/.I plan on camping there again!!!
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.
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."
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."
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."
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."
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find glamping options near Charleston, SC?
Charleston offers several elevated camping experiences for glamping enthusiasts. Campground at James Island County Park provides well-maintained sites with full RV hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings, all within minutes of downtown Charleston and Folly Beach. The park features extensive amenities including walking trails, a dog park, and seasonal festivals. Another excellent option is Buck Hall Recreation Area, located about 40 minutes northeast of Charleston along the intercoastal waterway in Francis Marion National Forest, offering stunning waterfront views. For a more secluded experience, consider sites around Walterboro or Mount Pleasant where you'll find additional upscale camping options.
What luxury amenities are available at Charleston glamping sites for couples?
Couples seeking luxury glamping experiences near Charleston will find several appealing options. Edisto Beach State Park Campground offers oceanside camping with the romantic backdrop of waves and beach access for sunset strolls. For enhanced comfort, Foster Creek RV Park and Villas provides a quieter atmosphere with villa accommodations that offer more privacy than traditional camping. Many sites around Charleston feature upscale bathhouse facilities with air conditioning, hot showers, and laundry services. Couples can also enjoy proximity to Charleston's renowned dining scene, historic sites, and water activities. Many glamping locations offer fire pits for evening ambiance, electricity for fairy lights or small appliances, and comfortable furnishings beyond what traditional camping provides.
How does glamping in Charleston compare to other South Carolina glamping destinations?
Charleston glamping distinguishes itself through its unique blend of coastal access and proximity to a major cultural hub. Unlike more remote South Carolina destinations, Givhans Ferry State Park Campground offers an excellent middle ground with its well-designed tent camping areas featuring lockable chuck boxes, power, and water at each site, while remaining close to Charleston's attractions. The park's layout with multiple camping sections and nearby pavilions creates a more refined outdoor experience. In contrast to mountain-region glamping in upstate South Carolina, Charleston-area glamping emphasizes water views and beach access. Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA offers amenities with easier access to historic districts and dining. Overall, Charleston glamping delivers a more urban-adjacent experience while still providing natural beauty.
What types of tent accommodations are available for glamping in Charleston?
Charleston's glamping scene offers diverse tent accommodations beyond standard camping. At Rocks Pond Campground & Marina, you'll find waterfront sites with options for both traditional and platform tents. For a more structured experience, New Green Acres RV Park near Walterboro offers designated glamping areas with more permanent tent structures. Throughout the Charleston area, glamping accommodations range from canvas safari tents with real beds and electricity to bell tents with bohemian décor. Some sites feature platform tents with wooden floors elevated off the ground for comfort. Premium tent options often include furnishings like real mattresses, side tables, solar lighting, and sometimes air conditioning units for summer comfort, creating a true luxury camping experience.
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