Summerton, South Carolina sits alongside Lake Marion, the largest lake in South Carolina at over 110,000 acres. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters where temperatures rarely drop below freezing. Camping facilities near Summerton typically remain open year-round due to the moderate climate, with electrical hookups available at most sites for climate control.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cypress View Campground — Santee State Park provides direct access to Lake Marion, known for its catfish, bass, and crappie. "Had a great time hiking and fishing," noted one visitor. The park includes fishing piers designed for accessibility.
Water activities: The Lakeshore Campground features a designated swimming area with a small beach that works well for families with young children. "The lake access had a beach area that the kids (3 and 1) loved to play at and there was no rocks around that area or dangerous drop offs," reports a visitor who appreciated the safety features.
Mini-golf and recreation: Rocks Pond Campground & Marina offers a small mini-golf course along with playgrounds and recreation halls. "Beyond this, there's a small mini-golf course, a couple little playgrounds and recreation halls," notes one camper who visited with a young family.
What campers like
Spacious lakefront sites: Many campsites at Lakeshore Campground offer room for multiple setups. "It was a super spacious site with more than enough room for us to spread out and park our cars away from the site. This factor really helped with those 4 stars because its not often that you can get a lakefront view with lots of room to spread out."
Pizza delivery service: Santee Lakes KOA offers convenient food options delivered right to your site. "If you don't feel like cooking, order their awesome pizza, wings and they will deliver it to you by golf cart," explains a satisfied guest. Another visitor confirmed, "Ordered pizza and had it delivered to the campsite! Nice touch!"
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention bathroom cleanliness as important. "Campground had tons of room in December. We were right on the lake. Easy park to walk and explore," reports a winter visitor to Cypress View Campground, highlighting the off-season advantages.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Summer months bring significant crowds to Lake Marion. "A beautiful location on the lake. All campsites can probably see the lake a little. Downside is that it's super crowded. Apparently all the fishermen drag their families in along with their boats," reports a visitor about Cypress View Campground.
Boat launch logistics: Palmetto Shores RV Resort provides convenient boat access, but timing matters. One experienced visitor advises: "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."
Weather considerations: The lake area creates wind patterns that can provide natural cooling. "Spacious, well wooded and there was a fantastic breeze all weekend with helped with the heat and bugs!" notes a camper at Lakeshore Campground, highlighting how lakeside locations can offer natural climate benefits.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing: Lee State Park Campground offers a safe introduction to outdoor activities. "We tried out camper camping here, and it was great. The ranger is very friendly, and made the kids' visit even better!" One family reported after their visit to this park about 90 minutes north of Summerton.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Right by the playground. Really nice facilities," notes a visitor about their lakefront site at Santee Lakes KOA, emphasizing the convenience for families.
Quiet time enforcement: Some campgrounds have variable noise control. A Lakeshore Campground visitor noted: "Our first night, a group of campers were very loud and rowdy until 12am. Then after the rowdiness calmed, their TVS were set on like the loudest kid show until 3am!!" Consider bringing earplugs if camping on busy weekends.
Tips from RVers
Check-in convenience: Santee Lakes KOA offers streamlined arrival. "They have a check in station at the gate so you don't even have to get out of your vehicle. Then they have people on golf carts take you to your site which is great! No need to drive around and find your spot."
Site selection matters: Consider highway proximity when booking. "This park is really nice and clean! You can tell that it is well taken care of. The sites are large and far enough a part; but be mindful of the site you pick! Our sites were right next to the highway," advises a visitor to Palmetto Shores RV Resort.
Level site variability: Site conditions vary even within the same campground. "The camping sites are nice, and some are level. Hookups are convenient, and work well," notes an RV camper at Santee Lakes KOA, suggesting the importance of checking site specifications when booking.
