Camping near Summerville, South Carolina offers convenient access to Charleston's attractions while providing more affordable rates compared to downtown options. The area features a mix of private and state-run campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of Summerville. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons provide milder conditions with temperatures in the 60-80°F range.
What to do
Water recreation at Edisto Beach State Park: The park provides beach access for swimming and shell collecting. "Shelling was incredible—especially if you walk towards the inlet around low tide," notes a visitor to Edisto Beach State Park Campground.
Biking through James Island County Park: The park features over 5 miles of paved paths for cycling. A camper reports, "There are many kid friendly activities to do including corn horn and other games," making James Island County Park a versatile recreation option.
Fishing opportunities at Lake Aire: The campground offers a stocked pond for catch-and-release fishing. "Nice pond for fishing," mentions a Lake Aire RV Park guest, who appreciated the proximity to both rural settings and urban attractions.
What campers like
Clean facilities at Mount Pleasant KOA: Visitors consistently mention the cleanliness of this campground. One camper states, "The bathhouse area was clean. The park offered fishing, kayak/canoe/paddle boat and paddle board rentals," highlighting the Mount Pleasant-Charleston KOA amenities.
Spacious sites at Oak Plantation: The layout provides good separation between campsites. "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," explains a visitor to Oak Plantation Campground.
Natural beauty at Givhans Ferry State Park: The riverside location creates a peaceful atmosphere. "Small but nice park on the river," notes a camper, with another adding that it's "not far from Charleston and very close to Bee City Zoo."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings intense heat, humidity, and bugs throughout the area. At Givhans Ferry State Park, a camper warns, "definitely need to wear your bug repellent."
Traffic management: Access to some campgrounds requires planning. At Oak Plantation, "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."
Limited cell service: Some campgrounds have connectivity issues. A Givhans Ferry State Park Campground visitor mentions, "Beware of no cell service at least for us and we use att and Google fi."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Most campgrounds feature children's play areas. At James Island County Park, families appreciate that there's a "Huge playground" and "Spray Play Waterpark" for cooling off.
Kid-friendly activities: Some parks schedule regular events. "They also had a free wagon ride to a nearby plantation a couple of times a week," shares a Mount Pleasant KOA visitor about a unique educational opportunity.
Site selection for tent campers: Choose sites based on weather and terrain. At James Island, a camper explains, "You cannot park your car right at the site. There is a parking lot so you have to hike in just a little bit."
Tips for RVers
Site spacing considerations: RVers appreciate adequate room between sites. "The sites are wide, level, paved, and well-spaced," notes a Joint Base Charleston Outdoor Recreation Center visitor about the military campground.
Full hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer complete services. An Oak Plantation camper mentions, "The park has full hook ups and has pull thru and back in sites. The sites are large and are not on top of each other."
Level site selection: Some campgrounds feature more level sites than others. "Spots are flat, full power and water," comments a visitor to Foster Creek RV Park, noting the concrete pads provide stability for larger rigs.
Navigating tight spaces: Some campgrounds present access challenges. At Lake Aire RV Park, a visitor notes, "Back-in spot was a little tight, but fairly level. We were very close to bathrooms that could have been cleaner but were handy."
Pet friendly camping near Summerville, South Carolina accommodates various sizes and breeds at most campgrounds, with many parks featuring dedicated dog areas. For campers with pets exploring Summerville camping options, most locations require leashing and proper waste disposal.
