Santee State Park and nearby campgrounds provide glamping close to Elloree, South Carolina throughout the year, with Lake Marion serving as the central feature for many properties. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations below 200 feet above sea level, creating minimal hiking elevation changes but offering extensive shoreline access. Winter temperatures typically remain above freezing, allowing for year-round camping with December to February seeing fewer crowds.
What to do
Boat launching and fishing access: The Lakeshore Campground provides convenient boat access with a ramp located within the park. "This was the maiden voyage of my parents 22ft airstream! My husband, kids and I came along and brought our tent... Lakeshore is also right next to a public (within the park) boat ramp so if you have a boat, its super convenient to bring along and put in," notes Katherine.
Sunset viewing spots: Lake Marion offers spectacular sunset viewing opportunities from waterfront sites. At Santee Lakes KOA, John K. recommends, "Nice campground on the water. Worth the upgrade to the lake front sites." The western-facing sites provide optimal sunset conditions over the water.
Hiking trail networks: Walking paths connect different camping areas with minimal elevation changes. Jason F. from Cypress View Campground describes, "Some fun but easy hiking trails link the two campgrounds in a loop. Very pet friendly." Most trails remain accessible year-round with winter offering fewer insects and cooler hiking temperatures.
Wildlife observation areas: Multiple observation points allow for viewing native species. According to Alfred H., "Seen several Deer, Armadillo and other wildlife I will stay here again." Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly along shoreline areas.
What campers like
Spacious lakefront sites: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing at waterfront locations. Katherine from The Lakeshore Campground explains, "It was a super spacious site with more than enough room for us to spread out and park our cars away from the site. This factor really helped with those 4 stars because its not often that you can get a lakefront view with lots of room to spread out."
Clean bathroom facilities: Palmetto Shores RV Resort maintains well-kept restroom facilities according to visitor feedback. However, Jonah J. notes room for improvement: "If you pay resort style prices (in which you do) you shouldn't have to work on shower heads in the bath house… Shouldn't be grime and rust built up in the stalls and shower."
Swimming areas: Many campgrounds feature dedicated swimming zones with beach access. Katherine describes, "The lake access had a beach area that the kids (3 and 1) loved to play at and there was no rocks around that area or dangerous drop offs." These swimming areas typically have gentle slopes making them suitable for younger children.
Variety of accommodations: From primitive tent sites to full-service RV hookups, the area offers multiple camping styles. Douglas T. from Palmetto Shores notes, "We both really enjoyed our stay. The dogs loved the dog park and I appreciated having bags to pick up after them. We had trash pickup and sites were easily navigable. Big park with nice views of the water."
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Popularity varies significantly by season with summer weekends experiencing the highest visitor numbers. Tracy F. from Cypress View Campground states, "Nice park but gets super crowded. The sites we had you could definitely have more than 6 people to a site and many sites did just that."
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience noise issues, particularly those near highways or with limited site separation. Katherine from The Lakeshore Campground mentions, "Our first night, a group of campers were very loud and rowdy until 12am. Then after the rowdiness calmed, their TVS were set on like the loudest kid show until 3am!!"
Trash management: Litter can be an issue in high-traffic areas, particularly around boat launches and beaches. "The trash was another big negative. Our campsite was littered with cigarette butts and having young kids it was a little frustrating since they pick up everything," reports Katherine about The Lakeshore Campground.
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds sit close to major roadways with associated noise. At New Green Acres RV Park, Tracey S. observes, "This campground is right off 95 and very easy to access. Loud highway noise, but tolerable. Tall trees everywhere."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly beaches: Look for designated swimming areas with gradual entry points. At Rocks Pond Campground, Stuart K. shares, "While I was there with a friend of mine and his young family, the place is perfect for kids - there's lots of places to go fishing, whether you are on a boat and want to venture further out, or don't want to leave land."
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds offer play structures within view of campsites. Daniel S. from Santee Lakes KOA recommends, "Only could stay for one night. But had a beautiful lake front site. Right by the playground. Really nice facilities."
Animal encounters: Farm-based camping offers unique experiences for children. Ashley F. describes Crunchy Acres: "Come meet their chickens, goats, pigs, turkey, and rabbits! Rent go-carts or sit around the campfire with some s'mores."
Water safety planning: Beach areas lack lifeguards, requiring parental supervision. Katherine notes, "I wouldn't even let them walk near the beach next to the boat ramp (public access) because it was covered in trash and fish carcasses." Parents should bring life jackets for children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature natural surfaces requiring leveling equipment. Tracey S. from New Green Acres RV Park advises, "No rock or concrete pad to park on so be prepared to level your RV."
Reservation specifics: When booking, specify exact vehicle dimensions to ensure appropriate site assignment. Mike F. recommends, "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."
Pizza delivery service: Several campgrounds offer unique amenities like food delivery. Stefny A. from Santee Lakes KOA shares, "They deliver firewood and pizza. The pizza was excellent. Customer service is outstanding!"
Full hookup availability: Utilities vary significantly between campgrounds. Ryan D. notes about Santee Lakes KOA, "The camping sites are nice, and some are level. Hookups are convenient, and work well. Lake is beautiful, and even had wooden chairs for use."
