Best Campgrounds near Salem, SC

Salem, South Carolina provides multiple campground options within driving distance, though many are situated in surrounding communities rather than directly in Salem itself. Campgrounds like Lynches River County Park and CrossRoads Coach Resort offer varying accommodation types including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. The region includes both established campgrounds with full amenities and more basic options, with most sites concentrated along major travel corridors such as Interstate 95 and near water features in the eastern part of South Carolina.

Several campgrounds in the area feature electric hookups, water access, and sanitary facilities, though amenities vary significantly between locations. As one camper noted, "Lynches River County Park feels off grid with the convenience of hookups. Despite being small, it was very clean, everything worked as expected." Road access is generally good with most campgrounds accessible to standard vehicles, though some sites may have limitations for larger RVs. Weather considerations include hot, humid summers and mild winters, making camping viable year-round in most locations. Reservations are recommended, particularly during spring and fall when moderate temperatures attract more visitors.

Campers frequently mention the diversity of natural settings available throughout the region. Sites near Lynches River provide access to nature trails, wetlands, and river recreation. A recent review highlighted that "We hiked the nature trail and wetlands boardwalk and other trails on an hour-long walk before hitting the road." Other campgrounds feature varying degrees of privacy and noise levels - train noise is frequently mentioned at CrossRoads Coach Resort, while more remote locations offer quieter experiences. Most campgrounds maintain clean facilities with functional bathrooms and showers, though primitive camping options with minimal amenities are also available. Wildlife viewing opportunities, recreational activities like archery, and kid-friendly options like splash pads supplement the camping experience at select locations.

Best Camping Sites Near Salem, South Carolina (64)

    1. CrossRoads Coach Resort at the ROB

    12 Reviews
    Salem, SC
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (843) 374-2131

    $50 - $89 / night

    "A very nice attendant greeted us as we approached the gate and opened it so we did not have to exit our RV. The sites are very spacious and are staggered so each RV is not looking into another."

    "Right near town - and right next to train tracks, lol! And yes the train comes through during the night. Other than that, a perfect location."

    2. Lynches River County Park

    7 Reviews
    Coward, SC
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (843) 389-0550

    $50 / night

    "My wife and I were looking fora tent-camping place along the I-95 corridor in South Carolina during spring break and weren't having much luck.  We decided to stay here and it was a great choice. "

    "Sites 1 & 2 have power and are outside the loop. Site 1 is back in, 2 is pull thru. Sites 8 & 9 are outside the loop and the most “remote”, with 9 being more-so."

    3. Country Lane

    2 Reviews
    Timmonsville, SC
    8 miles
    +1 (843) 409-7112

    "We are fenced in on all sides and surrounded by woods! There is a public landfill 1/2 mile away and there is a Dollar General 1/2 mile away!"

    "Country Lane is a great local spot with a convenient location for an overnight stay.  Check them out and leave a review about your stay on the Dyrt!"

    4. Swamp Fox Campground

    5 Reviews
    Timmonsville, SC
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (843) 665-9430

    $35 - $50 / night

    "We were concerned about the reviews about the motel nearby but it is closed down now and not a problem. We felt safe. The WiFi was super strong and allowed us to stream movies."

    5. Lee State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Bishopville, SC
    28 miles
    Website

    "Great little park about 20 minute drive from Florence. Clean bathrooms. My dog was a bit confused by seeing horses for the first time. Super friendly staff."

    "Love seeing the horses around the campsites."

    6. Florence RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Florence, SC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (843) 665-7007

    7. Poinsett State Park Campground

    41 Reviews
    Wedgefield, SC
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 494-8177

    "It looks nothing like South Carolina as you enter the gates. After half a dozen ups and downs and right turns you find yourself in a clearing and a large parking lot, a lake and a ranger station."

    "We recently visited South Carolina and after spending the weekend visiting nearby Congaree National Park, we opted to stay at Poinsett State Park for 4 nights in our Mercedes Sprinter campervan."

    8. Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park

    45 Reviews
    Elloree, SC
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 854-2408

    "There were not too many people camping during our visit, but it could be that not many people want to stand the South Carolina heat! Either way, it made the visit quiet."

    "We were at site 46, which is near the entrance and the camp host. Short walk to the bathhouse directly behind."

    9. Santee Lakes KOA

    27 Reviews
    Santee, SC
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 478-2262

    "This 25 acre campground is tucked in on the North side of Lake Marion in SC. Great staff friendly and helpful. I'll will be back"

    "This is a picturesque campground just across Lake Marion from Santee SC with water views and beautiful sunsets."

    10. Double C Farm

    Be the first to review!
    Timmonsville, SC
    18 miles
    +1 (843) 206-7766

    $60 / night

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Recent Reviews near Salem, SC

299 Reviews of 64 Salem Campgrounds


  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Cheraw State Park Campground — Cheraw State Park

    Very nice,calm spot and active hosts

    For us this was a pleasant little stopover after a long drive. Nicely located next to a lake, there is also a nice little walk partially around the lake. It is a small campground with nice spots. The hosts where active and there if you wanted advice. At the campground you can't swim, but you can walk 10 minutes to a beachy area on the other site of the lake.

  • RAYMOND The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Santee Lakes KOA

    Needs Work

    We stay here twice both times were just OK. The pool is crowded and murky, suggesting it good us a good cleaning. We stay for 4th of July weekend and can only describe the experience as a free for all. With camper literally on top of each other and spreading into the next camp site. Our neighbor’s site consisted of a RV, a large six-person tent and a pick-up truck tent parked half on our site. We ventured down to the lake swimming area and doing doughnuts near or on top of the swim boundary line most of the day. To recap– can’t swim in the dirty pool and can’t swim in the lake. In fairness the KOA as made some improvement since our stay but not enough for us to go back.

  • MaryAnn P.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Cheraw State Park Campground — Cheraw State Park

    VERY Nice campground!!

    The camping spots were clean and well kept....some have water and electric hookups and some are more rustic. There are plenty of large spaces for RVs with lots of room around them for privacy. It felt very private even though there were people all around. The bathrooms and showers were amazingly clean and they had a giant heater you can turn on over the showers when it's cold outside! There is a lake with a swimming area that was also well-maintained and clean, it has a boardwalk that goes around a large portion of the lake that connects the campground with the beach are. You can rent kayaks and canoes to take out on the lake, and the fishing is excellent! They also have rental cabins by the swimming area but I've never stayed in one. It is a nice campground, quiet and great for children! I will definitely go back!

  • D C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Bass Lake Campground

    Great camping off I-95

    Stayed here for a night on our way north. What a great little campground! We were so pleasantly surprised to find this gem on our way north from Florida. Very well kept and CLEAN! The showers and bathrooms were spotless. We would definitely stay here again!

  • J
    Jul. 19, 2025

    Bells Marina & Resort

    Perfect stop on i95

    Our road stop off I-95 at Bells Marina was an absolute gem! This lakeside campsite, perfectly nestled on the water, delivered stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere that made our getaway unforgettable. The newly paved, smooth road leading to the campsite—conveniently accessible from I-95—made our arrival effortless and stress-free. The well-stocked on-site store was a lifesaver, with their phenomenal pizza being the perfect quick and delicious meal after a long drive. Anglers in our group raved about the new fish cleaning station, a fantastic addition for preparing fresh catches with ease. With Food Lion just a 10-minute drive away, grabbing extra supplies was a breeze. The quiet, picturesque setting provided a rejuvenating escape from the road. Bells Marina is a must-visit for anyone seeking a convenient and exceptional lakeside camping experience!

  • RAYMOND The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2025

    Taw Caw Campground and Marina

    Another great stay

    Stayed for the Memorial Day weekend. As is usual it was a great stay. We were at Site J and I which continues to be a favorite. The only drawback is the proximity to the fishing dock and cleaning station. The traffic is heavy at times with multiple golf carts invading your site. The other drawback is the noise at night. During our stay there were young adults raising cane on the dock after 10pm. It’s not bad if you are in an RV, however if you are in a tent you will probably lose sleep.

  • RAYMOND The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 14, 2025

    Taw Caw Campground and Marina

    LAKE LIFE CAMPING

    Taw Caw is our close to home Staycation favorite spot. If you want to camp close to the water Taw Caw offers several spots. Bring your boat, Kayak or canoe and beach it at your campsite. Not all sites are water front so reserve them while they last. Great Marina with Ramp, Fuel and boat slips. Outstanding opportunity to fish from the fishing pier that includes a cleaning station. The camp store offers live bait and limited tackle. The restrooms are clean and well equipped.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 5, 2025

    Short Stay Navy Outdoor Moncks Corner

    Nice and relaxing on the waterfront of Lake Moultrie

    This campground is for Active and retired military and other qualified DOD employees. Very quiet and secure great fishing and beautiful sunsets

  • A
    Apr. 24, 2025

    Standing Pines RV Resort & Campground

    Brand new and family friendly

    The owners sell this place! Amy and Craig incredibly friendly and hospitable hosts. We started this Campground with Big Dreams, and I really hope they are able to accomplish them all! The dump trucks and heavy equipment just pulled out a couple weeks ago, so the campground looks like a construction zone a little bit still. However, brought three kids with me and we have had a blast! The outdoor showers are Anything But Ordinary! I've had to tell my youngest son that he's had too many showers in a day!


Guide to Salem

Camping near Salem, South Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds have trails for hiking. For example, at Lee State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned, "Awesome park with many trails and a pond for the kids to swim!" This makes it a great spot for families looking to explore nature.
  • Fishing and Swimming: If you enjoy fishing, Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park has a beautiful lake where you can fish and swim. A camper noted, "This campground has a beautiful lake with boat dock."
  • Archery and Nature Centers: At Lynches River County Park, you can enjoy archery and visit the nature center. One camper shared, "Awesome park about ten minutes outside of Florence. Has an environmental learning center."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for CrossRoads Coach Resort at the ROB stated, "The showers and laundry (Free) are well maintained."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of campground staff. At Cheraw State Park Campground, a camper said, "The campground host was quite helpful and an all-around nice guy."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the sites. One review for Poinsett State Park Campground mentioned, "We felt like we had plenty of privacy."

What you should know

  • Bugs in the Summer: Some campgrounds can get buggy during warmer months. A visitor at Lee State Park Campground warned, "Lots of sand and gnats and deerflies too."
  • Train Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, be aware that CrossRoads Coach Resort at the ROB is near train tracks. One camper noted, "The train comes through during the night."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A review for Angels Landing Campground mentioned, "The only positive thing was the serving staff at the restaurant."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. Lynches River County Park has a splash park and trails, making it a fun spot for families.
  • Check for Clean Bathrooms: Clean facilities are a must for families. A camper at Cheraw State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms are very clean."
  • Plan for Outdoor Fun: Bring outdoor games and activities. One family at Poinsett State Park Campground enjoyed hiking and picnicking.

Tips from RVers

  • Look for Full Hookups: If you're in an RV, check for campgrounds with full hookups. CrossRoads Coach Resort at the ROB offers full amenities, making it a convenient choice.
  • Be Prepared for Noise: If you're staying near train tracks, be ready for some noise. A review for CrossRoads Coach Resort at the ROB said, "The trains run frequently, day and night."
  • Secure Your Spot Early: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park advised, "Plenty of available spaces in off-season."

Camping near Salem, SC, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the specific amenities and features of each campground to find the best fit for your trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Salem, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, Salem, SC offers a wide range of camping options, with 64 campgrounds and RV parks near Salem, SC and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Salem, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Salem, SC is CrossRoads Coach Resort at the ROB with a 4.2-star rating from 12 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Salem, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Salem, SC.