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Best Campgrounds near Johns Island, SC

497 Reviews

Camping near Johns Island, South Carolina encompasses a mix of coastal and woodland settings within easy reach of Charleston's historic attractions. The area features several established campgrounds including James Island County Park, a highly-rated facility with full hookups for RVs, tent sites, and cabin accommodations set within a 600-acre park. Lake Aire RV Park in nearby Hollywood provides another convenient option approximately 25 minutes from downtown Charleston. Hanscombe Point Campground offers a more rustic experience with sites nestled in a pine grove adjacent to a livestock pasture, providing unique wildlife viewing opportunities including waterfowl, egrets, and eagles.

Most campgrounds in the Johns Island area operate year-round, though advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during spring and fall when mild temperatures attract the most visitors. Summer brings hot, humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, along with afternoon thunderstorms and mosquitoes. The coastal location means hurricane evacuation orders may affect camping plans from June through November. Campers should be prepared for no-see-ums (biting midges) in spring and early summer. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, making remote work possible at many campgrounds.

The camping experiences around Johns Island vary from fully-developed county parks to more secluded settings. James Island County Park offers extensive amenities including walking and biking trails, a dog park with water access, and playgrounds, making it suitable for families. According to reviews, "The campground is located in a huge park with lots of amenities. The sites are spacious, covered with trees, full hookups with 50 amp service." For those seeking proximity to both urban attractions and natural areas, these campgrounds serve as convenient bases. One visitor noted that Lake Aire RV Park provides "hassle-free camping" with "clean" facilities while being "close to John's Island and 25 minutes from downtown Charleston." Traffic congestion can affect travel times, particularly during morning and evening rush hours.

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Best Camping Sites Near Johns Island, South Carolina (60)

    1. Campground at James Island County Park

    59 Reviews
    Folly Beach, SC
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (843) 795-4386

    $38 - $219 / night

    "When making reservations at James Island County Park we had modest expectations, but we were going to tour Charleston most of the time, so we decided anything close to the city would be good enough."

    "The park does allow pets and has a dog park with a beach; it seems like the pups were having a marvelous time playing chase on the beach.This is a County Park with trails for walking or leisure biking."

    2. Lake Aire RV Park

    19 Reviews
    Johns Island, SC
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (843) 571-1271

    "The location was close to John’s Island and 25 minutes from downtown Charleston. Hassle free camping at its best."

    "Santee State Park is a beautiful forested park by the lake."

    3. Oak Plantation Campground

    13 Reviews
    Johns Island, SC
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (843) 766-5936

    "Beautiful location! Easy spots to get in and out of, not on top of each other. Great WiFi. Super pleasant and helpful staff. Clean bathrooms, Nice dog run, great food truck."

    "Close proximity to a lot of fun things to do."

    4. Edisto Beach State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Edisto Island, SC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (843) 869-2756

    "It's South Carolina in the summer, so there are mosquitoes."

    "The campsite pad has a plug and faucet right next to you and you're on the other side of a sand dune from the beach. The restrooms are close by to every site."

    5. Hanscombe Point Campground

    12 Reviews
    Folly Beach, SC
    10 miles
    +1 (843) 514-1215

    $30 / night

    "The campsite is at the edge of a livestock pasture, though most of the sites are within a pine grove with a dense floor of needles and cones.  "

    "Minutes away from typical groceries or dollar stores. Self check in and check out. Only reason why it's not a full 5 stars is simply having to move cow droppings for set up. Definitely would go back!"

    6. Military Park Joint Base Charleston Outdoor Recreation Center

    9 Reviews
    North Charleston, SC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (843) 963-1672

    $23 / night

    "The campground is located near the golf course and outdoor recreation center, providing close access to golfing, soccer golf, disc golf, a climbing wall, and archery range."

    "The campground is well kept with under 100 slots, it has an adjacent park, tennis and basketball courts. Next to both a frisbee and a nice golf course."

    7. Charleston KOA

    19 Reviews
    Goose Creek, SC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 562-5812

    "It is clean and close to shopping and close enough to Charleston which is full of history with lots of touristy things to do."

    "This KOA is located 30-45 minutes from the city, if you have to be closer to the north area for family or just cause Charleston has limited availability for RV’s , this is the place."

    8. Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA

    26 Reviews
    Mount Pleasant, SC
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (843) 849-5177

    $68 - $300 / night

    "There was a nice walking/biking path around the campground and downtown Charleston and Isle of Palms beaches were both close by. We are already planning a return trip."

    "Lots of places close by to eat at but this feels so tucked away all at the same time."

    9. Camp Hooley

    1 Review
    Johns Island, SC
    5 miles
    +1 (401) 662-1648

    $35 - $50 / night

    10. Remleys Point Public Boat Launch

    4 Reviews
    Charleston, SC
    12 miles
    Website
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Recent Camping Photos near Johns Island, SC

150 Photos of 60 Johns Island Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Johns Island, SC

497 Reviews of 60 Johns Island Campgrounds

Guide to Johns Island

Camping near Johns Island, South Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and surf at nearby beaches. Campers at Edisto Beach State Park Campground love that it's just a short walk to the beach, with one reviewer noting, "Less than a minute walk to the beach. Can hear the surf at night."
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. One visitor at Hunting Island State Park Campground mentioned, "We enjoyed watching the bird life and being in easy walking distance to the beach itself."
  • Fishing and Water Sports: Many campgrounds offer access to rivers and lakes for fishing or kayaking. A reviewer at Givhans Ferry State Park Campground said, "Full hook-ups, a short walking trail and access to the river."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One happy camper at James Island County Park remarked, "Very clean and adequate bathhouses."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites that provide a sense of privacy. A visitor at Colleton State Park Campground noted, "The sites are quite large and lots of trees."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. One reviewer at Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA said, "The campground and bathhouse was clean."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Some campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Givhans Ferry State Park Campground mentioned, "Definitely need to wear your bug repellent," hinting at the need to disconnect and enjoy nature.
  • Traffic Concerns: Getting to some campgrounds can involve navigating busy roads. A visitor at Hunting Island State Park Campground noted, "Traffic getting in and out of the park is pretty crazy."
  • Weather Variability: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. One camper at Lake Aire RV Park said, "There was quite a bit of standing water."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water activities. A reviewer at James Island County Park highlighted, "Fishing, kid friendly, climbing wall, rope course, water park."
  • Space to Roam: Choose campgrounds with open areas for kids to play. One parent at Oak Plantation Campground shared, "Our toddler loved having the freedom to run around in the wide open spaces."
  • Plan for Bugs: Bring bug spray, especially in marshy areas. A camper at Givhans Ferry State Park Campground advised, "Definitely need to wear your bug repellent."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA mentioned, "Had enough room to stay hooked up to 36' 5th wheel."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. A reviewer at Colleton State Park Campground noted, "Every site is now full hook up."
  • Be Ready for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or airports. A camper at Charleston KOA said, "The park is a little noisy with planes and faint traffic but not too bad."

Camping near Johns Island, South Carolina, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What RV parks are available near Johns Island and Charleston, SC?

The Charleston area offers several quality RV parks near Johns Island. Foster Creek RV Park and Villas provides a quiet setting, though it lacks shade trees and visitors should note they need self-contained units as bathroom facilities may be limited. For RVers seeking a location with more amenities, Oak Plantation Campground offers big-rig-friendly sites with full hookups near Charleston. Additional options include Charleston KOA in Ladson and Johnston Landing Campground near Lake Moultrie. Most RV parks in the area require reservations, especially during peak tourist seasons when Charleston and its surrounding islands are popular destinations.

Is there primitive camping available at Hanscombe Point on Johns Island?

While Hanscombe Point Campground is listed as a camping location on Johns Island, current detailed information about its primitive camping offerings is limited. For those seeking established primitive camping options in the region, Santee Coastal Reserve offers eight first-come, first-served primitive campsites that can accommodate multiple tents or RVs. This Wildlife Management Area provides spacious sites with no hookups or amenities, epitomizing true primitive camping along the South Carolina coast. Before planning a trip to Hanscombe Point specifically, contact local park authorities or the Charleston County Parks department to verify current status, regulations, and availability of primitive camping options.

Where are the campgrounds located on Johns Island, SC?

Johns Island offers convenient camping options with Campground at James Island County Park being the closest established campground to Johns Island. Located just minutes away, this campground provides excellent facilities and serves as a perfect base for exploring both Johns Island and nearby Charleston. Another option close to Johns Island is Lake Aire RV Park, which is situated on Johns Island itself and offers easy access to local attractions. Both campgrounds are within 25 minutes of downtown Charleston, making them strategic locations for visitors wanting to experience both the island's natural beauty and urban amenities.

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