Campgrounds near Isle of Palms, South Carolina provide access to both ocean beaches and inland waterways. The region sits at sea level with subtropical climate conditions that support palmetto forests and wetland ecosystems. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter lows rarely drop below 40°F, enabling year-round camping opportunities.
What to do
Fishing at lake settings: Johnston Landing Campground offers direct access to Lake Moultrie where anglers can catch striped bass, channel catfish, and bream. A reviewer notes, "Once you successfully navigate all of the backroads past Lake Marion and directly on the shores of Lake Moultrie, you'll eventually find a small nook in the road where you'll discover Johnston Landing, which is set off immediately by what looks to be a small bayou."
Water recreation: Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA includes a lake with rental equipment. According to one camper, "The park offered fishing, kayak/canoe/paddle boat and paddle board rentals. They also had a free wagon ride to a nearby plantation a couple of times a week."
Hiking nearby: The Palmetto Trail offers an excellent woodland experience just 5 miles from Johnston Landing. A visitor shared, "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."
What campers like
Pet-friendly amenities: Campground at James Island County Park features a dedicated K9 park that includes water access. One reviewer explained, "It has a fantastic dog park and several miles of paved walking/biking paths."
Family activities: The outdoor adventure areas at James Island County Park extend beyond basic camping. A camper noted, "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."
Affordability options: Lake Aire RV Park provides economical accommodations within driving distance to Charleston beaches. According to a reviewer, "We were there on a Thursday evening and had delicious chicken street tacos. Easy to get in and out of the campground with our 28 foot travel trailer. Pull thru, level sites."
What you should know
Military restrictions: Foster Creek RV Park limits access to military personnel. A reviewer clarified, "Would be great but as stated you must qualify to stay." Another mentioned, "IF you meet the qualifications to stay (military affiliated), this is REALLY close to the Navy Nuke School!"
Water drainage concerns: Some sites experience flooding during heavy rainfall periods. A Lake Aire visitor reported, "The tent sites were unlevel and muddy (since it rained before we arrived and all the water ran down hill to the tent sites)."
Facility maintenance varies: Not all campgrounds maintain consistent upkeep of amenities. One Foster Creek reviewer stated, "Several sites are out of commission and the grounds are in bad need of maintenance. No bathrooms, showers, laundry, wifi, cable, and Verizon is sketchy."
Tips for camping with families
Adventure options: Tiny Town RV Campground offers unique features for children. A visitor shared, "They were working on an axe throwing building and an activity area for kids when we were there. It's in a great location for exploring Summerville or Charleston."
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds feature resident animals that entertain younger campers. One Lake Aire visitor mentioned, "The resident ducks entertained us everyday and would follow us around. We were right next to the playground."
Space considerations: Site layouts vary significantly between campgrounds. A reviewer at James Island noted, "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."
Tips from RVers
Back-in requirements: Many sites require specific maneuvering techniques. One camper at Hill's Landing RV Park mentioned, "Here you'll find newly graded pull-through spots and a very easy paved boat landing to maneuver around."
Site leveling: RV pads vary in construction across campgrounds. At Foster Creek, a reviewer noted, "Pads are cement and level but close together."
Internet reliability: Connectivity fluctuates between campgrounds and even between sites. A Lake Aire camper reported, "WiFi worked well and cell coverage was good (att & Verizon). Easy to get to downtown Charleston."
Restaurant proximity: On-site dining options exist at select rv parks near Isle of Palms. A Hill's Landing visitor reported, "Full-service restaurant (great breakfast, but the lunch/dinner menu is basically glorified bar food w/ burgers and wings) and a general store where they sell bait & tackle, gas, ice, snacks, sundries."
