Best Campgrounds near Manning, SC
Campgrounds around Manning, South Carolina cluster primarily along Lake Marion, with Santee State Park serving as a central hub for cabin, tent, and RV camping. Located in the South Carolina lowcountry, the area features established campgrounds like Santee Lakes KOA and Taw Caw Campground and Marina that provide water access and recreational opportunities. Most campgrounds offer a mix of accommodation types, with many providing both tent sites and cabins along with standard RV hookups. The region's proximity to Interstate 95 makes it a convenient stopover for travelers heading north or south along the East Coast.
Several campgrounds in the area feature full hookups for RVs, while also maintaining tent camping areas and cabin rentals. "Located easily off I-95 this was a clean, well appointed, very nice campground with good facilities and kind staff," noted one camper about Santee Lakes KOA. Seasonal considerations include hot, humid summers when water activities are most popular, and milder winters that still allow for year-round camping. Most established campgrounds remain open throughout the year, though reservation availability may vary seasonally. Water levels on Lake Marion fluctuate with rainfall patterns, potentially affecting shoreline camping and boat access at certain times.
Waterfront sites at campgrounds like Taw Caw Marina and Santee Lakes KOA consistently receive higher ratings in visitor reviews. A camper described Taw Caw as "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." Fishing opportunities figure prominently in many reviews, with multiple campgrounds providing fishing piers, boat ramps, and cleaning stations. The campground layouts vary in spaciousness, with some reviewers noting tight quarters during busy periods, particularly at Santee Lakes KOA. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region, with several visitors mentioning deer sightings and bird watching as highlights of their camping experience in the area.