Camping cabins near Summerville, South Carolina offer varied options within a subtropical climate zone that averages 230 sunny days per year. The region sits at approximately 60 feet above sea level with seasonal temperatures ranging from the low 40s in winter to the upper 90s during summer months. Humidity levels tend to peak in July and August, making spring and fall popular seasons for cabin rentals in the area.
What to do
Paddle the Edisto River: The Edisto River near Colleton State Park Campground provides excellent kayaking opportunities with river access right from the campground. "Great little park but is right next to the highway it is off of. which makes car noise very loud. park ranger larry is one of the best rangers ive ever had the pleasure to talk to. if you are going to paddle check your water levels as river typically floods," notes a visitor.
Climb and challenge yourself: The outdoor adventure zone at James Island County Park features a 50-foot climbing wall, obstacle challenge course, and 1,000 square foot bouldering wall. One visitor describes it as "Mobile Camping Bliss w/ Tons of Amenities & Attractions" noting that "Situated just north of where your RV is anchored is the Outdoor Zone featuring a 50 foot climbing wall, obstacle challenge course, 1K sq ft bouldering wall and slackline."
Fish at Lake Moultrie: Short Stay Navy Recreation Area provides excellent fishing opportunities on Lake Moultrie. "Short-stay is a beautiful camp right on Lake Moultrie a short distance from Charleston, SC. They have descent wifi and an pretty well stocked camp store, but the main attraction is huge Lake Moultrie. Great for fishing, swimming, camping, RV, and much more," shares one camper.
What campers like
Proximity to beaches: Many campers appreciate the quick access to nearby beaches from Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA. "We stayed here for a week in the summer and loved it. Our site was very close to the lake and we had a great view. We were also right beside the pool and playground area so it was convenient to walk over," one visitor shared, adding that their family enjoyed water activities available on-site.
Spacious sites: Oak Plantation Campground gets positive reviews for its room between sites. A reviewer notes, "Large park with paved and grass sites. 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. To control the spacing, they do not let you pick your own site."
Pet-friendly amenities: Dog parks and pet accommodations factor highly in reviews. "We love this park! We have an extended stay here while we wait for our new home to be built. It is clean and close to shopping and close enough to Charleston which is full of history with lots of touristy things to do," shares one camper about Charleston KOA, highlighting the convenience for longer-term stays.
What you should know
Seasonal crowding: Plan your cabin rental timing carefully, especially at popular spots like Santee State Park. "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. While they're fishing, Mom and the kids are left in the campground," explains one camper.
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience noise issues. One visitor to Colleton State Park warned, "We had 8 in our group, 6 of them being children. None of us slept well being constantly woken up by the sounds of transport trucks driving straight for us. It put a major damper on our trip."
Military-only facilities: Some cabin options have usage restrictions. At Foster Creek RV Park and Villas, access is limited to military personnel. "This campground is for Active and retired military and other qualified DOD employees. Very quiet and secure great fishing and beautiful sunsets," notes a visitor to Short Stay Navy Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Book waterfront sites early: Waterfront cabin locations at Edisto Beach State Park are particularly desirable for families. "We had a magical time at Edisto. The Beach campground was just steps from the ocean. Opt for sites 1-12 or 50-75. Bathrooms were great. Shelling was incredible-especially if you walk towards the inlet around low tide," advises a visitor.
Consider dedicated kid activities: James Island County Park offers extensive family-oriented amenities. "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," shares one camper.
Watch for wildlife: Wildlife viewing adds educational value for children. "We saw several Deer, Armadillo and other wildlife" notes a visitor to Santee State Park, adding that the "bathrooms are clean" and "staff friendly and helpful."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling blocks. "Our site had a concrete pad but the concrete pad was broken up into large pieces of concrete which makes it hard to level," reports one RVer about Oak Plantation Campground.
Pest prevention: The subtropical climate brings insect challenges. "We got a tip from a neighboring RVer to spray for small ants anywhere that the RV touches the ground so the ants won't crawl up and get in our RV as it did theirs. We promptly went to buy ant spray and never had a problem," shares a visitor.
Traffic considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access. One Oak Plantation camper advises: "The road in front of campground is extremely busy (Hwy 17) and I wouldn't attempt ever turning left to get out. Just take a right and another right behind campground to get you out. It may take longer but worth your sanity."
