Camping around Salem, South Carolina features diverse terrain ranging from lakeside settings to wooded areas with varying amenities. The region experiences humid summers with temperatures reaching the 90s and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Several campgrounds in the area offer fishing access to Lake Marion, a 110,000-acre reservoir known for its bass and catfish populations.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: At Poinsett State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple trail systems through diverse landscapes. "Poinsett State Park has some of the best hiking and biking trails in the Palmetto State. You could spend multiple days camping here and have a chance to hike different trails every day," notes one camper, while another mentions, "I stayed at this park because the one in Congaree was full and I'm very glad I did! It took a good 45 minutes to get to Congaree but it was a pleasant drive."
Practice archery: Several campgrounds offer designated archery areas as a unique recreational option. At Lynches River County Park, "there's an archery range" that provides a different outdoor activity. Another visitor mentioned the park has "an environmental learning center, a canopy boardwalk in the trees, kayak loading dock, and small campground with archery course."
Swimming opportunities: During warmer months, swimming areas provide relief from the heat. At Cypress View Campground, campers can access Lake Marion. "Has boat docks & launching ramp. Nice fishing pier," reports a recent visitor. For those with families, Santee Lakes KOA offers "a nice spot for swimming" along the shore.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities despite rural locations. At CrossRoads Coach Resort, "the resort is the cleanest property we have ever stayed at. The restrooms/shower facilities (free) are beyond first class." Another camper noted, "This is relatively new campground, therefore you have fun, WiFi and concrete pads."
Free amenities: Some campgrounds offer unexpected free services that enhance the camping experience. At CrossRoads Coach Resort, campers appreciate that "the bathrooms were roomy" and there's "free laundry." One review specifically mentions, "Trash is picked up every morning at the site. Gated grounds that is well maintained."
Proximity to towns: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to nearby communities. Florence RV Park is "located in the NE pocket of the Palmetto State" and provides "an intimate little public pool behind the management office, WiFi hotspots, dog park, scattered picnic tables." A reviewer recommends "The Drive-In Restaurant with its 50s era nostalgia, big juicy burgers, fried everything, homemade onion rings and thick, creamy chocolate shakes."
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Salem experience railroad disruptions. At Santee Lakes KOA, the proximity to train tracks affects some campers. One visitor to CrossRoads Coach Resort warned, "The train traffic is constant and loud. If you are looking for quiet, look elsewhere. The train passes and it is even worse when the train passes."
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal variations. Summer camping requires preparation for heat and insects. One camper at Poinsett State Park cautioned, "It was probably not the best idea to stay here during the summer time. July? Hottest month of the year? South Carolina? The bugs were massive."
Site variations: Campsite quality and size differ substantially within the same campground. At Santee Lakes KOA, a camper noted, "Sites were tight for a rig that big but we made it work. Our site was level, others were definitely not." Another mentioned that at Poinsett State Park "the sites all look clean" but "the sites were on the smaller side."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. Santee Lakes KOA has a "great playground along the shore," making it convenient for parents to supervise while enjoying waterfront views. Another visitor appreciated having a "site right by the playground."
Educational opportunities: Lee State Park Campground offers learning experiences alongside recreation. "The ranger is very friendly, and made the kids' visit even better!" reports one family. The park features unique attractions like "seeing horses around the campsites" which children often enjoy.
Swimming alternatives: For families concerned about lake swimming, some campgrounds offer other water options. Poinsett State Park features "a lake to swim in, and the showerhouse had A/C!" during hot weather. At Country Lane, the owner notes it's "family friendly" with "lots of space for your kids or furbabies to run!"
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many campsites require preparation for uneven terrain. At Lee State Park, a camper reported sites were "gravel and level," while noting some campgrounds have "big roots all over the site." For larger vehicles, Poinsett State Park requires careful navigation as "it's not easy to get in here with anything bigger than a full size pickup."
Hookup options: RVers should verify available connections before booking a campsite near Salem. At Swamp Fox Campground, visitors find "very good place to camp" with "most of the sites well kept." Another camper noted the grounds are "well maintained and the sites are very large."
Maneuvering space: Campground roads and site layouts vary dramatically in their accommodation of larger vehicles. At Poinsett State Park, "the park road is very narrow and uneven with lots of large pot holes. The road to the campground is a little better, but also very narrow. It would be difficult to pull off to let another vehicle pass without fear of ending up off the road or hitting a tree."
