Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie form South Carolina's largest lake system near Cross, covering over 170,000 acres of freshwater habitat. These connected lakes feature shallow coves and cypress-filled swamps that attract fishing enthusiasts year-round. RV camping near Cross, South Carolina provides direct access to these waterways with several campgrounds featuring boat ramps and fishing docks.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Marion contains abundant largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie populations. Johnston Landing Campground & Cabins offers boat-in access with paddlecraft rentals for exploring Lake Moultrie. "If you are coming to these parts, be sure to bring a floating vessel of any type– fishing boat, kayak, canoe or whatever will stay afloat– but if not, no worries, the good people here at Johnston Landing have you covered as they offer a paddle boat, kayaks and a row boat for rent," notes camper Stuart K.
Water recreation: Lakes Marion and Moultrie provide ideal conditions for various water activities beyond fishing. Black Pearl Farms offers riverside camping with direct Edisto River access. "Beautiful, well maintained site beside the Edisto river, just as advertised! Private, peaceful, just what we were looking for," reports John B. The campground features 5 sites with basic amenities for a more rustic experience.
Nature trails: The Palmetto Trail passes within 5 miles of Johnston Landing Campground, offering hiking opportunities through cypress forests. "One of the best hikes in all of South Carolina– the Palmetto Trial is just about 5 miles away, but is definitely worth the hike as here you'll be able to witness first hand the sunken giant Cypress trees, amazing bird watching (Ospreys and Herons in particular)," according to visitor Stuart K.
What campers like
Peace and privacy: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of smaller RV parks around Cross. RV's Acres offers just 2 sites but includes features like 30 amp electrical service and a sanitary dump station. "Several 30amp sites with on-site water & plenty of space for more dispersed type off-grid camping. I've been staying here for 3 or 4 years and every time it's been a very pleasant experience," explains Mark B., who also mentions wildlife sightings: "The last time I was here (4 days ago) 2 does & a fawn came lopping/walking through the property."
Water access: Proximity to lakes and rivers ranks highly in camper reviews. "Having difficulty deciding between Lake Marion or Lake Moultrie? Well then, finding a spot here at Hills Landing and RV Park might just allow you to have the best of both world's as this spot is perfectly situation between the two on a tributary of a slow-moving waterway dubbed Diversion Canal that connects the two," notes Stuart K. about Hill's Landing & RV Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained campgrounds receive positive feedback. "Beautiful, clean, friendly and helpful staff! Out in the country located on a canal! Peaceful and quiet park. Restaurant has amazing food! Highly recommend for fishing!" states Cathy P. about Hill's Landing & RV Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Smaller campgrounds like Bird Dog RV and Stay and RV's Acres have limited capacity (3 and 2 sites respectively) requiring advance booking. Some parks like Cedar Cross RV Campground have specific rental terms: "I sent an email checking on one night availability and the response from Erin was 'We only do monthly rentals,'" reports Nicole T.
Service limitations: New Green Acres RV Park notes connectivity challenges despite advertising WiFi. "Wifi only works right at the office, which is a bummer," states camper Mimi. Another reviewer mentions, "There is no wifi, the laundry doesn't work and the bath houses wouldn't even open with code. For a nightly stay it is good."
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly between campgrounds. While New Green Acres RV Park offers "Easy Easy in and out" according to BC-G, other parks require navigation through backroads. For Black Pearl Farms, one reviewer cautions: "The directions provided by The Dyrt to this location are incorrect. It is not located on Sand Hill. So please use Google Maps to find the location or you will be down a long dirt road with no place to turn around."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas and recreational options. Palmetto Shores RV Resort features multiple family amenities. "Palmetto shores has a nice outdoor activity area, a nice lake beach and a really nice pool and lazy River," shares Claire O.
Check site spacing: Family groups need adequate room between sites. "The sites are large and far enough a part; but be mindful of the site you pick! Our sites were right next to the highway," advises Claire O. about Palmetto Shores RV Resort. For more seclusion, consider smaller parks like Black Pearl Farms with only 5 sites spread across wooded acreage.
Consider noise factors: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. New Green Acres RV Park sits near I-95, with one camper noting, "This is just off 95, so it's not quiet. It is green instead of gravel, so that's nice." Another adds, "Very convenient location off of I-95 but very noisy even inside your camper."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds feature natural terrain requiring equipment adjustments. At New Green Acres RV Park, "No rock or concrete pad to park on so be prepared to level your RV," advises Tracey S.
Rig size considerations: While several parks accommodate larger RVs, tree coverage can create challenges. "This park has really really long spaces. It's great for when towing a long trailer too but be mindful that there is a whole pile of trees. So when making reservations make sure you let them know you need something long but also easily accessible too," suggests Mike F. about New Green Acres RV Park.
Utility specifics: Tiny Town RV Campground provides innovative utility setups. "All the sites have 20, 30 and 50 amp power, and a water hook up. The plumbing at each site is housed in whiskey barrels which we thought was a clever idea. Most sites had sewer as well," details reviewer Lea.
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