Cabin camping near North Charleston, South Carolina offers several options within 50 miles of the city center. Located in the coastal plain at an elevation of 20 feet above sea level, North Charleston experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional frost. Several state parks and private campgrounds maintain cabin accommodations that range from rustic structures to deluxe units with modern conveniences.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Moultrie: Short Stay Navy Outdoor Recreation Area provides access to Lake Moultrie for fishing, swimming, and boating. "Great for fishing, swimming, camping, RV, and much more. There's a swimming beach and the camp store has boat kayak rental and propane tank refill," notes one military visitor.
Biking through James Island: James Island County Park features "5+ miles of paved paths offering hiking/biking bliss" according to one reviewer. "Wonderful park with plenty of amenities! We stayed here in October when the water park/pool was closed, but there was still plenty to do with bike rentals and the outdoor adventure area."
Wildlife viewing at Colleton: Colleton State Park Campground offers river access and nature trails. "Trail leading off the campgrounds through the woods is very fun, saw a corn snake and found a geocache," reports a camper who enjoyed exploring the park's natural areas.
What campers like
Well-spaced sites: Oak Plantation Campground receives praise for its spacious layout. "I stayed in a paved full hookup site P2 and, even though there were a fair amount of guests, they spread everyone out so I had no immediate neighbors," explains one visitor who appreciated the privacy.
Clean facilities: Edisto Beach State Park Campground maintains well-kept restrooms and showers. "The amenities (bathrooms and showers) were very clean," notes a tent camper. Another visitor adds, "Bathrooms were great. Shelling was incredible—especially if you walk towards the inlet around low tide."
Friendly atmosphere: The camping community creates a welcoming environment at many parks. "The people we met, both staff and fellow campers are all very friendly," reports a visitor to one campground, while another notes that "Edisto Beach was very clean and the people were so welcoming and friendly."
What you should know
Military eligibility requirements: Some campgrounds like Short Stay Navy Outdoor Recreation Area and Foster Creek RV Park restrict access. "This campground is for Active and retired military and other qualified DOD employees. Very quiet and secure great fishing and beautiful sunsets," explains a visitor.
Seasonal flooding concerns: River access points may experience high water levels. At Colleton State Park, "if you are going to paddle check your water levels as river typically floods." Similarly, at Givhans Ferry, visitors should be prepared for potential water level changes on the Edisto River.
Insect preparation: Givhans Ferry State Park Campground requires bug spray during warmer months. One visitor advises, "definitely need to wear your bug repellent," while another camper at a different park warns about "huge mosquitoes" during summer visits.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas. "They have an awesome park," notes a visitor to James Island County Park, while another mentions that Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA provides "multiple playgrounds and many kid friendly activities."
Splash zones for hot days: Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA offers water recreation options. "The park offered fishing, kayak/canoe/paddle boat and paddle board rentals. They also had a free wagon ride to a nearby plantation a couple of times a week," shares a summer visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Oak Plantation Campground provides nature encounters. "Lovely, large oaks with gray moss provide that quintessential Charleston/Savannah setting. There's a small pool, dog park, pasture with cows, and a play area," describes a visitor who appreciated the natural setting.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many campsites require adjustments. "The sites aren't huge but are clean and convenient to camp store and trails. Our site was a pull through with some nice palmettos but not a lot of privacy," reports a visitor to James Island County Park.
Site selection strategies: Securing the right spot makes a difference. "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, specifically on the NW periphery with sites #46-55," advises a visitor with specific site recommendations.
Power options: Electrical service varies by location, with most parks offering standard connections. "The sites are flat, full power and water," notes a military visitor about one campground, while another visitor explains that Santee State Park provides "water and a variety of electrical hookup options" for campers.
