Mount Pleasant sits on South Carolina's coast where the Cooper and Wando Rivers meet, less than 20 minutes east of Charleston. The area features subtropical humidity with mild winters and hot summers, making cabin and yurt camping possible year-round. Most campgrounds in Mount Pleasant and the surrounding areas offer short hiking trails under dense canopies of live oaks draped with Spanish moss, providing natural shade during summer months.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: James Island County Park offers multiple fishing spots with easy access. "There is a fantastic dog park and several miles of paved walking/biking paths. Great local restaurants, carriage tours, forts, shopping and more!" according to Terry J.
Wagon rides to historic sites: Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA organizes special excursions. "Our fave was the wagon ride to the plantation next door," notes Angela M. These rides typically operate Monday through Thursday during summer months.
Outdoor adventure zones: James Island County Park features extensive recreational facilities beyond standard camping. "The Outdoor Zone featuring a 50 foot climbing wall, obstacle challenge course, 1K sq ft bouldering wall and slackline that will have you and your brood enjoying these backwoods in no time," reports Stuart K.
Kayaking the Intracoastal: Buck Hall Recreation Area provides direct water access. "We had a blast kayaking around and had some awesome dolphin encounters," explains Bounding Around. Kayak rentals are available at most waterfront campgrounds.
What Campers Like
Nature trails: James Island County Park offers extensive paved paths. "It has a fantastic dog park and several miles of paved walking/biking paths," notes Terry J. The trails connect to various amenities throughout the 643-acre park.
Convenient Charleston access: Campsites provide easy access to historic sites. "Near downtown Charleston. Easy to get in and out. Reasonable rates. Near everything around Chai," explains J Terrell M. Most campgrounds are within 15-20 minutes of downtown attractions.
Seasonal events: Winter camping at James Island provides unique experiences. "So I stayed during November and December... they have a light show through the park," explains Tim. Many campgrounds offer special activities during holiday seasons.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, several parks offer these structures as alternatives to traditional cabin camping. "We stayed in a 2 bedroom cabin for this trip... It had a pool, camp activities, hiking/nature trail," reports Susan P. from Mount Pleasant KOA.
What You Should Know
Summer heat management: The subtropical climate means preparation is essential. "Can be really hot in the summer with little breeze," warns Tracy F. about Givhans Ferry State Park. Consider booking water-adjacent sites for natural cooling.
Insect protection: Coastal locations mean mosquitoes are prevalent. "Bring plenty of mosquito repellent (you're next to the water in the south, need I say more?)," advises Stuart K. Bugs are most active at dawn and dusk.
Military campground restrictions: Some facilities have eligibility requirements. "This is a military campground... Would be great but as stated you must qualify to stay," explains Barbara P. about Foster Creek RV Park and Villas. Always verify access requirements before booking.
Site flooding concerns: Low-lying areas may experience drainage issues. "We had 2 days of heavy rain and some sites flooded, but everything drained well," reports Joel R. Request elevated sites when booking during rainy seasons.
Tips for Camping with Families
Dog-friendly facilities: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with dedicated areas. "There's a beautiful lake that allows catch and release fishing... There are waste bags scattered throughout the park and a huge dog park," notes Carlyne F. about Mount Pleasant KOA.
Kid-focused activities: Edisto Beach State Park Campground offers natural play spaces. "Edisto has a beach camping area and a wooded area. The option for RV or tent camping without all the excessive price," explains Karen G. Children particularly enjoy the shelling opportunities.
Multiple playgrounds: Family-friendly amenities abound at most parks. "There are multiple playgrounds and many kid friendly activities to do including corn horn and other games," reports Carlyne F. These areas typically feature equipment for various age groups.
Dedicated youth fishing: Larger facilities often have special areas for young anglers. "There's lots of places to go fishing... there's a fishing pier, a dedicated fish pond and even a smaller pond that is just for the kiddos," notes Stuart K. about Rocks Pond Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on shade and privacy. "IMHO the best slots in this RV exclusive campground are those on the perimeter with the best sites being the ones without anything behind them," advises Stuart K. Corner sites typically offer the most space.
Parking configurations: Rocks Pond Campground & Marina offers various setups for different vehicles. "It is primarily for RV's with seemingly endless barren rows full of slanted parking spots," explains Stuart K. Request specific site types when booking.
Utility hookup variations: Services vary between parks. "Most have water and electricity. They have RV and tent only camping," reports John W. about Givhans Ferry. Some locations offer full hookups while others provide only basic connections.
Launch timing for boats: For RVers bringing watercraft, timing matters. "If you've got a boat and want to get out on the water, do it early before the long line takes you at least an hour of waiting," suggests Stuart K. Plan water activities to avoid peak times.
