Lake Camping Near Columbia, South Carolina, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Columbia, South Carolina with a beautiful lake, we've got you covered. With over 170 options in the area, you'll have no shortage of choices. Whether you're interested in pitching a tent or parking your RV, we have accommodations to suit your needs. For a private and serene experience, check out the highly rated Private Oasis In The Forest (105 reviews). If you prefer a campsite with a lake view, Camp Clatworthy (95 reviews) is a great choice. And if you're looking for a RV park, Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC (58 reviews) is worth considering. With prices starting as low as $20 per night and an average price of $35, camping near Columbia, South Carolina has never been more affordable. And don't worry about amenities, popular options include toilets, trash disposal, and potable water. Plus, you can enjoy activities like horseback riding, paddling, and exploring historic sites. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

99% (437)

Top-rated campgrounds near Columbia

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Columbia, South Carolina with a beautiful lake, we've got you covered. With over 170 options in the area, you'll have no shortage of choices. Whether you're interested in pitching a tent or parking your RV, we have accommodations to suit your needs. For a private and serene experience, check out the highly rated Private Oasis In The Forest (105 reviews). If you prefer a campsite with a lake view, Camp Clatworthy (95 reviews) is a great choice. And if you're looking for a RV park, Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC (58 reviews) is worth considering. With prices starting as low as $20 per night and an average price of $35, camping near Columbia, South Carolina has never been more affordable. And don't worry about amenities, popular options include toilets, trash disposal, and potable water. Plus, you can enjoy activities like horseback riding, paddling, and exploring historic sites. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

99% (437)

Top-rated campgrounds near Columbia

1. Beautiful Lake Camping

100%

(30)

29mi from Columbia · 1 site · RV

Lake Wateree, a 13,250-acre lake with unspoiled natural views, was created by the damming of the Wateree River in 1920. It is located about 30 miles northeast of Columbia, just east of I-77. The lake is owned and managed by Duke Power and is surrounded by three counties: Fairfield, Kershaw, and Lancaster. One of South Carolina's oldest man-made lakes, Lake Wateree is known for crappie, bass, catfish, and bream fishing. The 242 miles of shoreline include a bird refuge, the Lake Wateree State Recreation Area and State Park, and Carolina Adventure World for Recreational ATV and dirt bike riding. All these amenities are only a few miles from this site. There are many eclectic little towns to visit and shop when you are not spending time swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, paddle boating, fishing,or just sitting around the fire or hanging out on your own private dock and island. Learn more about this land: Lakefront RV site with private dock and lots of amenities. Acres of solitude and nature. The ideal getaway unlike any other. This is your own oasis on a large cove with a private island and an expanse of nature that opens up to the lake. Bring your boat, there is a nearby boat ramp. Pets must be contained or leashed at all times. Pets are welcome but one must adhere to the leash rule for safety. Though this site has an open ambiance, there are other homes in the area with their own pets and there are large birds of prey.

2. Prices Bridge Inn & Campgrounds

97%

(59)

35mi from Columbia · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging

We have an absolutely gorgeous 12 acres of mostly wooded and/or lakefront land on the West end of Lake Murray (Saluda River). Me, my wife, and three kids live and work on a 20 acre forest nestled in the backwaters of Lake Murray. Behind Prices Bridge, we have what nature lovers refer to "OH MY GAWD"... Our land forms a peninsula, which is very private, secluded, and SAFE. If you want to refresh, recharge or spend quality time with family or friends, we'd love to host you. *Prices Bridge being a low bridge also means if you bring a large boat you may need to use the marina or any of the free boat launches within a mile of our site... kayaks, canoes, john boats all fit under. :-)

3. Eagles Landing

100%

(44)

38mi from Columbia · 2 sites · RVs

Beautiful 1 acre gated lot (with 2 sites) that sit on a 17 acre pond with a private beach and boat ramp. Boat ramp & pond will accommodate a nice size Jon boat. Each site has a picnic table, fire pit, electric, water and septic station. You can swim, fish, kayak or just relax enjoy making memories

4. Sesquicentennial State Park

88%

(4)

74 sites · Dentsville, South Carolina

Discover the natural charm of Sesquicentennial State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Poinsett State Park

100%

(4)

55 sites · Wedgefield, South Carolina

Discover the natural splendor of Poinsett State Park's diverse landscapes.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Private Oasis In The Forest

96%

(223)

42mi from Columbia · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Quite undisturbed forest for 1/2 a century, used for duck hunting in the previous owners family for decades. I’ve started building a small cabin that’s unfinished hopefully completing in the coming years. Fishing pond and small seasonal creek flows after lots of rain. Excited to share it with others! Note: Daylight arrival at least an hour before sunset recommended! FYI out of firewood at this time

7. Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

97%

(180)

44mi from Columbia · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC is a private lodging establishment offering short term sites to campers, transient guest and outdoor enthusiast who desire rest, relaxation and recreation. The fringe land is old farm land now being repurposed for outdoor activities. The RV Park is the developed part of an old Farm planted in pines bordering Big Creek/Lake Murray.

8. The Lakefront Grove

11mi from Columbia · 1 site · Tent, RV

Escape to our peaceful forest retreat nestled among towering pine trees with direct lakefront access. Enjoy a private boat dock and ramp, two kayaks ready for exploring, and short gravel walking trails winding through buzzing wildlife and fresh woodland air. The property offers a generous tent setup area, 2 fire pits, hammock hooks, and a picnic table for cozy outdoor gatherings. Located in a quiet wooded neighborhood, it’s a true off-grid experience—please note there is no bathroom on-site and fishing is not permitted. Swimming is optional, but please be aware we have a few local crocodiles living in this lake! Perfect for campers seeking solitude, nature, and simple lakeside living. Please: •Bring your own bathroom •Dispose of your trash •Fully put out fires •Do not drive onto open camp site area where tents are set up •Keep volume to a respectful level out of courtesy to the neighbors

9. Lakeshore Family Campground

100%

(4)

34mi from Columbia · 6 sites · RVs

The ONLY campground on Lake Monticello! Lakeshore Family Campground offers 6 full hook up campsites - water, electric, and sewer. LFC does not have a bathhouse and we do not allow tent camping. LFC is located just 1.4 miles from the nearest boat ramp and 1.5 miles from the Recreational Lake and Park. We have a private dock and kayak rentals available for guests. Whether you're traveling to the area for work or looking for a quiet getaway for the weekend, Lakeshore Family Campground is the perfect place to stay!

10. Lake Wateree State Park

80%

(6)

69 sites · Great Falls, South Carolina

Enjoy on plenty of water-based activities with a name like Wateree.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Dreher Island State Park

96%

(12)

110 sites · Chapin, South Carolina

Discover Dreher Island State Park's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Santee State Park

85%

(10)

182 sites · Santee, South Carolina

Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Santee State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

13. Aiken State Park

100%

(1)

20 sites · Windsor, South Carolina

Aiken State Park: A serene escape with trails, fishing, and canoeing.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

14. Memory Lane SC

39mi from Columbia · 1 site · RV

This property is a shared lot with a new mobile home. The front yard is divided into two separate areas. RV and parking for the site is located on the right side facing the property. Parking for the mobile home is to the left. The outside space is common area including the dock, shoreline and backyard. The attached deck and screen porch are only for the guests in the mobile home. The fire pit is available at first come first serve basis (firewood is not provided at this time). Guests can enjoy Fishing, Swimming, Kayaking And Boating.

15. Deep Water RV Park

41mi from Columbia · 14 sites · RVs

Weekly bookings only! Deep Water RV Park offers full hookup lots that are 18 x 50 feet and 25 x 60 feet. With a variety of choices, we have it all including a lockable storage building. With each unit you are provided water, sewer, electric, and facilities. Deep Water is the premier RV Park on Lake Marion South Carolina and right off interstate I-95.

16. Sunny Days Campground

100%

(4)

42mi from Columbia · 1 site · RV

Want to stop in for a night, Weekend, or longer? Come check our beautiful brand new campground out! Just minutes from Lake Marion and multiple golf courses, we are located on 20 acres of mostly wooded property with wooded walking trails, fishing pond, propane refilling, campground store, occasional live music and events! We would love to have you!

17. Stop and Fish RV Park

44mi from Columbia · 53 sites · RVs

Stop and Fish RV Park offers lots that are 30x60 feet. With a variety of choices, we have it all from privacy to lockable sheds that are 10x10 feet, or fences. With each unit you are provided water, sewer, electric, and facilities. Stop and Fish is the premier RV Park near Lake Marion South Carolina.

18. Twilight

47mi from Columbia · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

We’re located on the quiet back side of the Lancaster Reservoir, a beautiful public lake with designated fishing days on Thursdays and Saturdays. The waters are home to bass, bream, crappie, and catfish. There’s a public boat ramp on the opposite shore, and the lake allows electric motors only — perfect for peaceful days on the water. Kayakers are always welcome! We’re just minutes from town, with easy access to restaurants, Walmart, and grocery stores. Clear Water Cove at Lake Wateree is about 30 miles away, and the Nitrolee access point is only 13 miles from the property. Don’t forget to bring your kayak!

19. Palmetto Shores RV Resort

100%

(1)

44mi from Columbia · 84 sites

Palmetto Shores RV Resort stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nestled conveniently off I-95 at exit 102, alongside the stunning Lake Marion, part of the renowned Santee Cooper lake system. This unique location offers visitors a serene escape with full-service hookups (50/30 amp) available at all pull-thru and back-in sites, making it an ideal spot for big rigs and RVs of all sizes. As you explore the natural beauty of South Carolina, let Palmetto Shores be your perfect home base. The resort provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking in the picturesque surroundings. Nearby, you can discover charming restaurants and local shops that showcase the region's culture and cuisine. Whether you're looking to relax by the lake or embark on an adventure, Palmetto Shores RV Resort offers the ideal blend of comfort and excitement for your next getaway.

Camper favorites near Columbia

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Lakeshore Family Campground

100%

(4)

34mi from Columbia · 6 sites · RVs

The ONLY campground on Lake Monticello! Lakeshore Family Campground offers 6 full hook up campsites - water, electric, and sewer. LFC does not have a bathhouse and we do not allow tent camping. LFC is located just 1.4 miles from the nearest boat ramp and 1.5 miles from the Recreational Lake and Park. We have a private dock and kayak rentals available for guests. Whether you're traveling to the area for work or looking for a quiet getaway for the weekend, Lakeshore Family Campground is the perfect place to stay!

Memory Lane SC

39mi from Columbia · 1 site · RV

This property is a shared lot with a new mobile home. The front yard is divided into two separate areas. RV and parking for the site is located on the right side facing the property. Parking for the mobile home is to the left. The outside space is common area including the dock, shoreline and backyard. The attached deck and screen porch are only for the guests in the mobile home. The fire pit is available at first come first serve basis (firewood is not provided at this time). Guests can enjoy Fishing, Swimming, Kayaking And Boating.

Deep Water RV Park

41mi from Columbia · 14 sites · RVs

Weekly bookings only! Deep Water RV Park offers full hookup lots that are 18 x 50 feet and 25 x 60 feet. With a variety of choices, we have it all including a lockable storage building. With each unit you are provided water, sewer, electric, and facilities. Deep Water is the premier RV Park on Lake Marion South Carolina and right off interstate I-95.

Sunny Days Campground

100%

(4)

42mi from Columbia · 1 site · RV

Want to stop in for a night, Weekend, or longer? Come check our beautiful brand new campground out! Just minutes from Lake Marion and multiple golf courses, we are located on 20 acres of mostly wooded property with wooded walking trails, fishing pond, propane refilling, campground store, occasional live music and events! We would love to have you!

Stop and Fish RV Park

44mi from Columbia · 53 sites · RVs

Stop and Fish RV Park offers lots that are 30x60 feet. With a variety of choices, we have it all from privacy to lockable sheds that are 10x10 feet, or fences. With each unit you are provided water, sewer, electric, and facilities. Stop and Fish is the premier RV Park near Lake Marion South Carolina.

Twilight

47mi from Columbia · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

We’re located on the quiet back side of the Lancaster Reservoir, a beautiful public lake with designated fishing days on Thursdays and Saturdays. The waters are home to bass, bream, crappie, and catfish. There’s a public boat ramp on the opposite shore, and the lake allows electric motors only — perfect for peaceful days on the water. Kayakers are always welcome! We’re just minutes from town, with easy access to restaurants, Walmart, and grocery stores. Clear Water Cove at Lake Wateree is about 30 miles away, and the Nitrolee access point is only 13 miles from the property. Don’t forget to bring your kayak!

Palmetto Shores RV Resort

100%

(1)

44mi from Columbia · 84 sites

Palmetto Shores RV Resort stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nestled conveniently off I-95 at exit 102, alongside the stunning Lake Marion, part of the renowned Santee Cooper lake system. This unique location offers visitors a serene escape with full-service hookups (50/30 amp) available at all pull-thru and back-in sites, making it an ideal spot for big rigs and RVs of all sizes. As you explore the natural beauty of South Carolina, let Palmetto Shores be your perfect home base. The resort provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking in the picturesque surroundings. Nearby, you can discover charming restaurants and local shops that showcase the region's culture and cuisine. Whether you're looking to relax by the lake or embark on an adventure, Palmetto Shores RV Resort offers the ideal blend of comfort and excitement for your next getaway.

Public campgrounds near Columbia

All sorts of canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, pedal boats

88%

(4)

Sequicentennial Campground

4.1mi from Columbia · 74 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sesquicentennial State Park

100%

(4)

Poinsett Campground

26mi from Columbia · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Poinsett State Park

80%

(6)

Lake Wataree Campground

28mi from Columbia · 69 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Wateree State Park

96%

(12)

Dreher Island Campground

29mi from Columbia · 110 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dreher Island State Park

85%

(10)

Santee Campground

43mi from Columbia · 182 sites · Tents, RVs · in Santee State Park

100%

(1)

Aiken Campground

48mi from Columbia · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Aiken State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Sean

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

Super nice campground with a cool water feature and a very nice bathroom Highly recommend

B

Bridget

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private Oasis In The Forest

We had really fun at this place! Definitely coming back!

J

Jessica

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

Nice toilet and shower, very clean and host was kind! I was in park 4 which is same price as the other sites but was relatively smaller than the rest, but secluded more than the other spots if you want more privacy

M

Marina

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

Camp site was amazing. Jame's was very accommodating allowing me to switch sites when I realized there was no power on the site I originally booked. Location is beautiful. No light polution, can see tons of stars at night. Bathroom and shower are small but heated and air conditioned with plenty of hot water. Easy access trails to the restroom/shower. Had a lovely time.

H

Hunter

November 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

Was the perfect camp site. Everything we needed. Hookups were great. Public restrooms were clean and super nice. Would stay again.

M

Michael

November 2025

18 ft travel trailer

6 nights at Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

We had a very large site, and it was quiet. It was so relaxing. Mr. James was a great host. Awsome fishing in the creek beside the campground. We will be returning soon.

Kayla

November 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

We stayed a 2 nights and it was amazing! We had the best time! Everyone was super sweet and we are definitely going to be back. Thank you for having such an amazing campsite

Mona

November 2025

26 ft fifth wheel

With pets

4 nights at Sunny Days Campground

I would recommend this campground whole heartedly! To be honest, I wasn't expecting other campers here because of how it was listed on the website but I was very pleased with it. The campground was very clean and well-kept. The campsite was the levelest we've stayed at, and we've camped a lot. There's a central commons area for gathering and so many outdoor games accessible for everyone. It's close to Santee State Park if you want to hike longer trails though there is a short one on the property. We also appreciated the doggy poop stations - non-existent in most places we've stayed at. The staff were very welcoming and helpful. Would we stay there again? ... Most definitely without hesitation!

V

Vladimir

October 2025

29 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Beautiful Lake Camping

This is my third time at this location. Absolutely amazing little piece of heaven. I’ll be coming for years to come, and the owners are amazing people. Highly recommend.

S

Sherri

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

Great site. Fishing was good. Caught 24 lb. Catfish, a Bluegill and a large mouth Bass. Neighbors were a little loud but overall, great place to enjoy nature. Clean facilities and grounds! We will be back.

S

Stephanie

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Private Oasis In The Forest

We had a lot of fun camping here! The water was perfect and loved having the row boat to use. I would highly recommend this spot to anyone!

C

Charle

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Prices Bridge Inn & Campgrounds

Great place to camp on the lake! Plenty of parking for the boat and close to several ramps. I plan on staying again for the next tournament on Murray. Also very nice to have the pup off leash!

Elizabeth H

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Lakeshore Family Campground

Quiet, small compound for no more than 6 campers. You are on top of a hill from which you can glimpse the lake. Walk down the well maintained path and onto the dock and the view of the lake opens up. I enjoyed bird watching and star gazing while I was there. I plan to return.

R

Rick

October 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Private Oasis In The Forest

The property was really a great location for our group that were overall new to camping with amenities nearby to pickup groceries or go to a diner when needed! We really enjoyed taking turns on the row boat, and playing card games and monopoly in the cabin area at night. The campsite felt really private, but there was some barking from dogs nearby at night, and sometimes gunshots. Alex, the owner, was very responsive and helpful in finding local activities and resolving any issues we had during the stay!

A

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Prices Bridge Inn & Campgrounds

It's great! Not crowded like the parks with RV's packed 15 feet away from one another and no campers walking through your campsite. The host family was super friendly. There were about 12 deer near the campsite in the morning. The kids loved seeing them.

Lorene

September 2025

20 ft Class B

3 nights at Beautiful Lake Camping

The lake was beautiful and like glass. Paddle boarding with my dog and fresh eggs from Ann made my heart smile.

M

Michael

September 2025

1 night at Private Oasis In The Forest

Second time. Even better than the first. I’ll be back soon.

B

Bradley

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Creek RV Park of Saluda SC

Great camping spot and super nice people. Also a bunch of real nice fishing spots you can go to

Sunset camp setup, plenty of comfort. Includes: picnic table, plenty of firewood, and a nice view of the water!

brenda

September 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Prices Bridge Inn & Campgrounds

Very private,open space,that was nice,met Jesse n he makes you feel very welcome,he upgraded us to the treehouse cause there were ants at campsite 1,my grandchildren had a blast running everywhere. I was at easy with my shepherd there once he met Jesse's animals,big worry cause I just never know how he will be with other dogs

M

Michael

August 2025

With pets

1 night at Private Oasis In The Forest

Absolutely loved it. Perfect place to get away. Awesome creepy “Cabin in the Woods” vibes. When the sun went down the night came alive. We watched Evil Dead 2 in the cabin. This was an amazing trip. I will be booking this exact spot again. Love it!!!