Camping near Hampton, South Carolina offers convenient access to both inland forests and coastal destinations. The region features mixed pine and hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 100-200 feet above sea level in a humid subtropical climate. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter camping experiences mild 50-60°F daytime temperatures that can drop into the 30s at night.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Jasper RV Park provides direct access to fishing at their lakefront property. As reviewer Stuart K. notes, "You are not even located on the mainland here – in fact, you'll be parked on Eagle Scout Island with direct access to beautiful Lake Jasper, which will satisfy your fishing, boating and paddling urges."
Hiking trails: Colleton State Park Campground offers walking paths along the Edisto River. "We had a great day kayaking 23 miles down to Givhan's Ferry," shares reviewer Bounding Around, highlighting the park's river access points. The trails provide good opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Archery lessons: Magnolia Springs State Park Campground offers family-friendly activities including archery. One visitor shared, "On Saturday we took the beginner archery lesson with another ranger. She was so patient with our 6 year old who gets frustrated very easily. It was so much fun!"
Disc golf course: Within an hour's drive, Sergeant Jasper Park offers additional recreation. "You definitely want to make the most out of being located adjacent to Sergeant Jasper county park where not only is there a direct trailhead access point here at Lake Jasper RV Park to explore all of the hiking trails or bike on, but there's additional activities over here like a lakefront gazebo, kid's playground, additional picnic shelters, canoe & kayak rentals as well as an 18-hole disc golf course," notes one visitor.
What campers like
Clean facilities: New Green Acres RV Park maintains well-kept bathroom facilities. "Bathrooms/showers are clean and large. Pleasant staff. We would absolutely stay here again for an overnight as we pass through," remarks Tracey S., highlighting the standards that campers appreciate at dog friendly campgrounds near Hampton.
Quiet atmosphere: Heirloom Hamlet offers a peaceful setting for those seeking tranquility. A guest noted, "We were wary after reading the Confirmation letter that came when we booked our stay however this was a great stay that we will definitely do again...This place is nothing like your sardine can campground experience it was quiet with just a few people and the owners had time to visit with you and make you feel welcome!"
Riverside settings: Black Pearl Farms provides a natural riverside experience that many campers seek. "Beautiful, well maintained site beside the Edisto river, just as advertised! Private, peaceful, just what we were looking for," writes John B., describing the waterfront camping experience.
Paddle sports: The region's rivers and lakes make water activities popular. "We took day trips to Hilton Head, Savannah and Charleston, each about an hour away," shares Joanne H. about using Point South KOA as a base for regional exploration.
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Many campgrounds in the region have resident wildlife requiring caution. At Magnolia Springs State Park, "There were numerous signs posted for alligators and bears. I didn't put a lot of stock into the bear signs due to the fact that none of the garbage cans or anything were 'bear-proof'. We did finally see one gator as we walked by the spring one of the days," notes Jay B.
Seasonal considerations: Summer visits can be extremely hot and humid while spring offers more comfortable temperatures. "We were there May 8-11 and only had one colder evening and weather in the 70's during the day," shares a camper at Magnolia Springs.
Site conditions: Some pet-friendly campgrounds may have challenges during wet weather. As one camper at The Oaks at Point South shares, "We enjoyed our walks around the lake with the dog, but there wasn't much more to do. The pool was open, but you had to sign up for a time slot (because of COVID) and there wasn't much nearby to do."
Reservation requirements: Several campgrounds don't accept same-day bookings. "Looks super nice but they say they are open till 8:30 pm. I got there at 8 and nobody was around. Tried to book it online and they don't do same day reservations," reports a visitor to Lake Jasper RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Hampton feature play areas for children. At Magnolia Springs State Park, "In the center of the campground there is a small playground. The kids didn't end on it too much, but it was a nice addition. There is also some permanent (concrete) cornhole setup, but you'll need your own bean bags."
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer ranger-led activities. "We participated in a hike with the park manager where she told us about the animals in the park and even let us feel grey fox and beaver pelts. We saw vultures and an armadillo. That finished with hot chocolate and roasting marshmallows!" shares a family who visited Magnolia Springs State Park.
Camping during graduations: Some campgrounds fill up during military graduation periods. A reviewer at Lake Jasper notes, "Parris Island is not far off and I'm sure during graduations this KOA gets crowded as well as evacuations and vacations."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: New Green Acres RV Park offers convenient pull-through sites for larger rigs. "Amazing CG. Full hookups. All pull through. Easy Easy in and out. Quiet even tho close to I95," notes reviewer BC-G, highlighting features important to RVers traveling with pets.
Site spacing considerations: When choosing sites at dog-friendly campgrounds, spacing matters. "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," advises Mike F. about New Green Acres.
Supply access: Stock up before arriving as some campgrounds are remote. "Nothing (groceries, etc.) was nearby. The closest non-convenience store grocery was 12 miles away and the nearest Walmart was 23 miles away," warns Charles F. about The Oaks at Point South.
