Camping near Port Royal, South Carolina offers options ranging from full-service RV parks to rustic tent sites. Located in the South Carolina Lowcountry, the region features maritime forests and coastal marshlands with average summer temperatures in the mid-90s and mild winters rarely dropping below 40°F. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, though seasonal insect activity peaks during summer months.
What to do
Explore Civil War history: Fort McAllister State Park Campground provides direct access to historical sites. "The visitor center was really interesting and the staff were very knowledgeable and helpful," notes one camper. The park hosts an annual Civil War reenactment in December depicting Sherman's last battle.
Kayak coastal waters: Sites at River's End Campground & RV Park place you near paddling opportunities. "We spent most of our time riding bikes on the bike path and on the beach. We also visited Fort Pulaski and walked the trails over there," explains a visitor who enjoyed the area's water access.
Visit historic Savannah: From Skidaway Island State Park Campground, Savannah's historic district is just a short drive. "The campground is beautiful and well-maintained. The area is convenient to downtown Savannah and not too far from Tybee Island," reports a camper who used the park as a base for city exploration.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently praise the generous spacing at Skidaway Island. "The spaces are very large and spread out. Many of the campsites have gorgeous Live Oak trees covered in Spanish Moss," notes a visitor who appreciated the privacy.
Beach access: At Edisto Beach State Park Campground, proximity to shore is a major draw. "We had a magical time at Edisto. The Beach campground was just steps from the ocean. Opt for sites 1-12 or 50-75," advises a camper who enjoyed shoreline activities.
Convenient overnight stops: For travelers along I-95, New Green Acres RV Park offers accessibility. "This campground is right off 95 and very easy to access. Loud highway noise, but tolerable. Tall trees everywhere. Very pretty!" shares a reviewer who appreciated the park's location for a quick overnight stay.
What you should know
Highway noise: Some campgrounds trade accessibility for quietude. "This is just off 95, so it's not quiet. It is green instead of gravel, so that's nice. Lots of trees and all pull thru spaces," explains a camper at New Green Acres.
Wildlife considerations: Local fauna is active at several campgrounds. At Fort McAllister State Park Campground, wildlife requires attention: "When I was here in April the flies were awful but they went away when the sun went down. Haha but that's when the Raccoons come out to play! Do NOT leave food or trash unattended or they will ransack your campsite."
Reservation timing: Most parks, especially those offering luxury camping near Port Royal, fill quickly during peak seasons. As one visitor to Edisto Beach noted, "On Easter weekend, there was only one empty site. Most campers seem to be in RVs."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At River's End Campground, families appreciate the recreational amenities: "We love this campground. Sites are close together but who cares when you're there for the beach. Staff is wonderful and helpful."
Educational opportunities: Fort McAllister offers historical learning experiences. "Really nice campground. Great hikes. Very close to a Publix and two convenience stores. My kids loved the playground and the fort tour!!" shares a parent who visited with children.
Biking routes: Families with bicycles find Edisto Beach particularly accommodating. "This campsite is perfect for riding bikes around," notes a winter visitor, making it ideal for families seeking safe riding environments for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Skidaway Island: RVers recommend specific locations within the park. "The center sites in the campground are pull through with full hookups. The majority are some mix of pull through or back in with water/electric," advises an experienced camper who spent 4 nights at this upscale glamping destination.
Hookup placement: At Point South KOA, setup details matter. "Sites are level with easy access. Beautiful Park with nice sites. Very helpful staff. Will save this Campground in our directory for future reference when traveling and needing a stop over," mentions an RVer who appreciated the functional layout.
Length considerations: New Green Acres provides generous spaces for larger rigs. "This park has really really long spaces. It's great for when towing a long trailer too but be mindful that there is a whole pile of trees. So when making reservations make sure you let them know you need something long but also easily accessible too."
