RV campgrounds near Pendleton, South Carolina offer convenient lake access, seasonal amenities, and diverse camping experiences. The area sits in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations between 700-900 feet, creating distinct seasonal temperature variations. Summer overnight temperatures typically remain in the 60s-70s, while winter nights regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access: Tiger Stripes RV Campsites provides a central location for exploring local fishing spots. "Great RV park. Everything you need is right here... Close to downtown Pendleton and Clemson University," notes Kevin H.
Water sports on Lake Hartwell: Big Water Marina & RV Park offers boat rentals directly from your campsite. "Boat rentals are available as well as paddle boards and kayaks," explains Sarah P., who stayed at this lakefront location.
Live entertainment: Many campgrounds feature seasonal activities and performances. One camper at Big Water mentions, "There was a restaurant/bar, playground, Marina, stage with live bands. My kids had so much fun and can't wait to go camping here again."
What campers like
Direct lake access: The Point at Lake Hartwell has waterfront sites that campers appreciate. Jackie J. reports, "We had our boat, they offer a decent area for boat parking & the boat ramp/dock to access beautiful Lake Hartwell was ok!"
Clean facilities: Many RV parks maintain clean bathhouses and amenities despite high usage. At Crooked Creek RV Park & Marina, one reviewer noted, "Immaculate private bathrooms with sink, toilet & showers. Pool and small playground. Good wifi signal & close to town."
Community activities: Seasonal events bring campers together. At The Point, a camper mentioned, "They had Karaoke & Potluck night while we were there!" These social opportunities enhance longer stays.
What you should know
Site spacing challenges: Most RV parks in the area have limited space between sites. At Thousand Trails Carolina Landing, Nick E. observed, "Very tight between rigs if you're in a 30'+ rig. Water pressure and hookups have worked great."
Leveling issues: Uneven terrain affects many campsites in the region. One camper at The Point noted, "There are not any concrete pads but you can tell they have tried their best to make the sites level & better accessible by clearing up the area & removing some of the trees."
Seasonal availability: Facilities and amenities change throughout the year. Ian R. reported at Carolina Landing, "We are under a WiFi pole and have good signal and usable internet. It was actually worth paying for. There is a boat launch but, it is hard to get to and down a large, steep incline."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several Pendleton area RV campgrounds have swimming pools, but hours vary seasonally. At Crooked Creek RV Park, Kimberly H. shares, "The pool and playground is great. We will return during the summer months for sure. A golf cart is helpful to have, or bikes."
Playground options: Springwood RV Park and other facilities offer family-friendly amenities despite ambient noise. A camper noted this park has "full hookups, wifi, and while it did not have cable it had excellent reception from a number of local stations."
Noise considerations: Transportation noise affects some campgrounds. Joe P. observed at Springwood, "I've never stayed in an RV park next to a small airport with a train track running through the middle of the park! Fell asleep to the soothing sounds of a locomotive horn punctuated by the plinks of acorns bouncing off the roof."
Tips from RVers
Road challenges: Navigation requires planning at some Pendleton area RV parks. At Carolina Landing, one RVer cautioned, "When you enter the park make sure you stay to the left of the sign. We made the mistake of going straight our first time at this park and almost lost our 5th wheel at the turn around by the lake."
Site selection for big rigs: Choose carefully if driving a larger rig. At Carolina Landing, Becky P. warned, "If you have a big rig, park somewhere else besides the A section if at all possible," after experiencing difficulties with their fifth wheel's stability.
Mobile connectivity: Cell service varies between parks and carriers. At Crooked Creek, multiple reviews mention acceptable WiFi coverage for basic needs, with one noting it was "close to town" if stronger connections were needed.
