The best camping in Lake Wateree State Park, SC

·
80% (6)

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

The best camping in Lake Wateree State Park, SC

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Great site to put our RV. I’m loving the view

2. Beautiful Lake Camping

100%
(30)
0.7mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 1 site · RV · Great Falls, SC
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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$68
 / night
Tiny cabin, set in front of the trees.

5. Rosewood Farm and Agripark

99%
(185)
15mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 100 sites · Lodging · Winnsboro, SC
Rosewood Farm and Agripark is my home. I honestly had about the most amazing childhood one could have on this very land! We hunted, fished, made mud pies and played outside for hours, as long as we were in shouting distance for supper time! I am so fortunate to be the daughter of two amazing parents, who had a dream to build a working farm from nothing more than a logging trail in the woods. They built a 3 story, 10,000 square foot house by themselves- while raising a family! We have 200 acres of farmland that features rolling hills, multiple ponds, creeks, farm animals, show horses and countless wildlife viewing opportunities. Wild turkey and deer roam free all over the farm, coveys of dove fly out from the pastures and trails, and coyotes howl in the night. Listen to the frogs croaking, crickets chirping and whipporwhills calling every evening under a magical blanket of stars. Take a nature hike through the trails that meander through the woods around the park. Our newest venture is to offer primitive camping and some cabin rentals around our 60 acre Agripark! For those wanting to step it up a notch, we have erected a large concrete floor, covered event barn (for parties, family reunions, weddings, cowboy church, etc..,) and also a huge petting zoo barn with an area behind it for pony rides and 4-h/FFA functions. Also, a greenhouse is being erected next, that will teach people about aquaponics and hydroponics! Many things are on the immediate horizon for this special property. While we are under heavy construction at the moment in some areas of the park, many amenities are currently available. Why not unplug from the daily grind and spend time with those that matter most? My goal is to make this land as magical for your family as it has been for mine!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$80
 / night
KALEIDOSCOPE FARM - Nature!

7. KALEIDOSCOPE FARM - Nature!

95%
(54)
24mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 3 sites · Tents · Columbia, SC
Our land is family land that has been untouched for years. We are working on the land to make trails and clear more of the woods. There is an old cemetery here, creeks, hills and valleys. It's beautiful. Wildlife such as deer, rabbits, turkeys and more can be seen in the woods. Learn more about this land: We have 33 acres with hills and valleys. There is an old dirt and gravel road lined with trees, a natural spring that usually has water, large rocks, a very old cemetery, wildlife, and beautiful wildflowers and blackberries depending on the time of the year. Our house and land have been in my family over 200 years. Lots of history! Come out and visit and enjoy nature! Deer and turkey are active now too! We have grills for you to use, a picnic table, swings and fire pits.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$25
 / night
Mike's country home and land

10. Mike's country home and land

100%
(15)
31mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 11 sites · Lodging · Rock Hill, SC
Welcome to Creekside FarmCreekside Farm is a place where you can slow down and enjoy things you might not normally notice.We are glad you are Here.We invite you to sit back, take your shoes off, and breathe deeply as you read this – slowly.Creekside is very special place where you, and those important to you can unplug and gently "be" with eachother.My wife Beth and I fell in love with this property because it has a unique way of calling us out of our busy livesand into a meaningful space of connection with our senses, each other and those we care about. We hope youhave the chance to experience this on your visit.In my work as a leadership consultant and executive coach I've had the opportunity to find a few "bestpractices" for a meaningful experience of life. I offer them to you below should you want to try them out duringyour visit. I promise they will impact your time here - and your time when you leave here - tremendously:Being and DoingSometimes it’s just fine to sit down and not do anything.Experience and CaptureSometimes you don’t need to capture an experience, just experience it.Quality and QuantitySometimes quality of life is more satisfying than quantity of life. Maybe less is more.Sensing and ThinkingSometimes thinking is overrated. Sitting still and sensing what is right in front of us can be eye-opening.Silence and NoiseSometimes saying nothing says everything. Turning off the phones and devices and listening to the nature’ssounds can further awaken and resensitize us.Below you will find information about this special place. It includes invitations, requests and details about howthings work here at the farm.We invite you...1. To use your time here to nourish your Self, Spirit and Body. Walk, breathe, smell, touch, see, and taste whatyou desire.2. To put away your phones and devices and be with the people you are here with.3. To remove your shoes when in the home and feel the floor under your feet.4. To be outside whenever you can. There is goodness out there. Go anywhere you want on property, it isbordered by the creek.5. To eat slowly, talk slowly, walk slowly and just hang.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$105
 / night
Dennis & Melissa's Hidden Creek

13. Dennis & Melissa's Hidden Creek

99%
(185)
41mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Hartsville, SC
Our 400 acre family cow and pine tree farm most of which was purchased 60 years ago by my father and mother. My two siblings and me were raised here and later bought joining land that now makes up the 400 acres. We all still live on the farm with our families 1.4 mile down a dirt and gravel road. We all enjoy the peace and quiet that you will find here. Sounds of our cows, wildlife and the occasional rumble of a distant train is all you will hear on our farm. Our Hidden Creek is a short fun hike to cool your tired feet. Wide hiking paths all the way around our property if you would like a long hike. Learn more about this land: Enjoy your privacy on our 400 acres of farm and forest trails. 10 minutes from groceries and gas, 15 minutes from a small town. We are surrounded by farmland and forest. There are a few different attractions 5 - 10 minutes away (lake Robinson) it has a boat landing and plenty of fish, (Carolina Sandhills national wildlife refuge)it has plenty of hiking trails and roads perfect for bicycling, small mountain called (Sugarloaf Mountain)perfect for hiking. Local peach/strawberry farm (McLeod farm) with produce/gift shop/free museum/restaurant called (Big's), they have pick your own strawberries in the spring and early summer. In nearby Hartsville and Cheraw there are several golf courses and places for Kayak rentals. Neptune Island waterpark in Hartsville.   We have a hidden Creek that is fun to hike to by way of a trail. Small pond for fishing, plenty of room for hiking and bike riding ( grassy, sandy, rolling hills). Beautiful hills to camp on and watch an unobstructed view of the Carolina sunset and sunrise that peak through wooded acreage. Choose a tent camp location or pull/drive your RV/camper right near our cow pasture and watch the cows graze. Fresh drinking water at campsites. Bathroom and heated shower. Pick wild blackberries in early summer and wild grapes in late summer early fall, and we may share some of our home made jellies with you. We welcome family groups year round. At night enjoy the sounds of wildlife while watching the highly visible twinkling stars and tracing the many constellations and if lucky see a shooting star or two.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
Friendly goats in their pen

14. Acts In Motion Sacred Ranch

100%
(24)
44mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · York, SC
This is a running 7 acre Christian micro-farm/ranch in York, South Carolina, 45-60 minutes S. from Charlotte NC. We do things differently here than what you may expect at typical religious organizations. Our values are encompassed by bringing Christ into every day reality where His love shines 24/7. This is a sacred space where community converges with the beauty of creation. So, first and foremost, it is dedicated for people who are seeking refreshing, harmony, and peace with the Creator in a real, "down-to-earth" way. Come experience the culture of ranch life, times of relaxation around the camp fire, rustic meals, and having fun exploring the Carolinas! We are confident that you will not only enjoy the amazing scenery for camping, you will be encouraged by the warm smiles, candor, and hospitality of the staff here to serve you. We are looking forward to your visit soon. Blessings. Features: A rustic scenery with the classic red barn, chapel, pastures, old growth trees, rolling hills, creek, and meadow. We have chickens, sheep, rabbits, dogs, cats, and wildlife. Learn more about this land: The property is picturesque with pastures, a classic red barn, a chapel, and organic garden space. You will enjoy a peaceful meandering creek, old growth trees, rolling hills, fields, meadow, and animals... serene and beautiful. This sacred space is a balance between primitive camping, and just a short walk away from modern amenities. There are restrooms, showers, laundry, coffee, and WiFi available at your request in the chapel.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

18. Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

100%
(37)
49mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlotte, NC
This 2.5 acre, partially wooded lot is located on a secluded cove of Lake Wylie. Campers can enjoy the lakeview, lake access, a spacious dock, swimming area, fishing, kayaking, and other lake activities! [This camping spot includes a communal or private fire pit as well as access to a gas grill.] Additionally, this lot is within driving distance to many local attractions listed below. This property is BYOB (Bring Your Own Boat)! There are 2 boat landings within 5 miles of the property, campers are more than welcome to tie up their boat to the on-site dock and park their trailer on the property. Pets are welcome, however note that the property owner has a cat and small dog on site. Pets need to be well behaved and not aggressive to other animals. Cleaning up after your pet in the lawn areas is required. The property owner (Teresa) lives on-site in a cabin between the camping pad and the lake. Local attractions within driving distance include: -Copperhead Island (5 miles) -McDowell Park/Nature Preserve (5 miles) -Carowinds Theme Park (5 miles) -Charlotte Premium Outlets (5 miles) -Whitewater Center (10 miles) -David Stowe Botanical Garden (15 miles) -Uptown Charlotte (15 miles) -Charlotte Motor Speedway (25 miles)
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Eden in Lancaster, SC

20. Eden in Lancaster, SC

100%
(3)
14mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Irwin, SC
Eden is a unique campground. We have two glamping campers (one sleeps 6) (one sleeps a couple and small child) both are fully stocked with EVERYTHING you will need for a relaxing time! For those who like to tent camp, we have a very large tree canopied site with an outhouse style restroom steps away from your site, or you can bring your own camper using a 30 amp hookup and water. Eden also has a 5 acre wooded nature trail with seating that deer like to frequent on the way to the creek. While your here we have fresh eggs, a large variety of produce avaliable seasonally, and an herb garden for the cooks in the group. Locally there are tons of farms, lakes, parks, amazing eateries. You can visit our facebook page and view our guidebook for lots of local suggestions. When it isn't freezing outside there are tons of amenities right here at the camper! We have wifi, bluetooth speakers, projector for movie night cornhole boards, darts, soccer goals, glow sticks, board games and much more!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$98
 / night
80% (6)

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Beautiful Lake Camping

100%
(30)
0.7mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 1 site · RV · Great Falls, SC
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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$68
 / night

Rosewood Farm and Agripark

99%
(185)
15mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 100 sites · Lodging · Winnsboro, SC
Rosewood Farm and Agripark is my home. I honestly had about the most amazing childhood one could have on this very land! We hunted, fished, made mud pies and played outside for hours, as long as we were in shouting distance for supper time! I am so fortunate to be the daughter of two amazing parents, who had a dream to build a working farm from nothing more than a logging trail in the woods. They built a 3 story, 10,000 square foot house by themselves- while raising a family! We have 200 acres of farmland that features rolling hills, multiple ponds, creeks, farm animals, show horses and countless wildlife viewing opportunities. Wild turkey and deer roam free all over the farm, coveys of dove fly out from the pastures and trails, and coyotes howl in the night. Listen to the frogs croaking, crickets chirping and whipporwhills calling every evening under a magical blanket of stars. Take a nature hike through the trails that meander through the woods around the park. Our newest venture is to offer primitive camping and some cabin rentals around our 60 acre Agripark! For those wanting to step it up a notch, we have erected a large concrete floor, covered event barn (for parties, family reunions, weddings, cowboy church, etc..,) and also a huge petting zoo barn with an area behind it for pony rides and 4-h/FFA functions. Also, a greenhouse is being erected next, that will teach people about aquaponics and hydroponics! Many things are on the immediate horizon for this special property. While we are under heavy construction at the moment in some areas of the park, many amenities are currently available. Why not unplug from the daily grind and spend time with those that matter most? My goal is to make this land as magical for your family as it has been for mine!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$80
 / night

Mike's country home and land

100%
(15)
31mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 11 sites · Lodging · Rock Hill, SC
Welcome to Creekside FarmCreekside Farm is a place where you can slow down and enjoy things you might not normally notice.We are glad you are Here.We invite you to sit back, take your shoes off, and breathe deeply as you read this – slowly.Creekside is very special place where you, and those important to you can unplug and gently "be" with eachother.My wife Beth and I fell in love with this property because it has a unique way of calling us out of our busy livesand into a meaningful space of connection with our senses, each other and those we care about. We hope youhave the chance to experience this on your visit.In my work as a leadership consultant and executive coach I've had the opportunity to find a few "bestpractices" for a meaningful experience of life. I offer them to you below should you want to try them out duringyour visit. I promise they will impact your time here - and your time when you leave here - tremendously:Being and DoingSometimes it’s just fine to sit down and not do anything.Experience and CaptureSometimes you don’t need to capture an experience, just experience it.Quality and QuantitySometimes quality of life is more satisfying than quantity of life. Maybe less is more.Sensing and ThinkingSometimes thinking is overrated. Sitting still and sensing what is right in front of us can be eye-opening.Silence and NoiseSometimes saying nothing says everything. Turning off the phones and devices and listening to the nature’ssounds can further awaken and resensitize us.Below you will find information about this special place. It includes invitations, requests and details about howthings work here at the farm.We invite you...1. To use your time here to nourish your Self, Spirit and Body. Walk, breathe, smell, touch, see, and taste whatyou desire.2. To put away your phones and devices and be with the people you are here with.3. To remove your shoes when in the home and feel the floor under your feet.4. To be outside whenever you can. There is goodness out there. Go anywhere you want on property, it isbordered by the creek.5. To eat slowly, talk slowly, walk slowly and just hang.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$105
 / night

Dennis & Melissa's Hidden Creek

99%
(185)
41mi from Lake Wateree State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Hartsville, SC
Our 400 acre family cow and pine tree farm most of which was purchased 60 years ago by my father and mother. My two siblings and me were raised here and later bought joining land that now makes up the 400 acres. We all still live on the farm with our families 1.4 mile down a dirt and gravel road. We all enjoy the peace and quiet that you will find here. Sounds of our cows, wildlife and the occasional rumble of a distant train is all you will hear on our farm. Our Hidden Creek is a short fun hike to cool your tired feet. Wide hiking paths all the way around our property if you would like a long hike. Learn more about this land: Enjoy your privacy on our 400 acres of farm and forest trails. 10 minutes from groceries and gas, 15 minutes from a small town. We are surrounded by farmland and forest. There are a few different attractions 5 - 10 minutes away (lake Robinson) it has a boat landing and plenty of fish, (Carolina Sandhills national wildlife refuge)it has plenty of hiking trails and roads perfect for bicycling, small mountain called (Sugarloaf Mountain)perfect for hiking. Local peach/strawberry farm (McLeod farm) with produce/gift shop/free museum/restaurant called (Big's), they have pick your own strawberries in the spring and early summer. In nearby Hartsville and Cheraw there are several golf courses and places for Kayak rentals. Neptune Island waterpark in Hartsville.   We have a hidden Creek that is fun to hike to by way of a trail. Small pond for fishing, plenty of room for hiking and bike riding ( grassy, sandy, rolling hills). Beautiful hills to camp on and watch an unobstructed view of the Carolina sunset and sunrise that peak through wooded acreage. Choose a tent camp location or pull/drive your RV/camper right near our cow pasture and watch the cows graze. Fresh drinking water at campsites. Bathroom and heated shower. Pick wild blackberries in early summer and wild grapes in late summer early fall, and we may share some of our home made jellies with you. We welcome family groups year round. At night enjoy the sounds of wildlife while watching the highly visible twinkling stars and tracing the many constellations and if lucky see a shooting star or two.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night

Other options near Lake Wateree State Park

The best camping in Lake Wateree State Park, SC guide

Overview

About

Travel to Desportes Island 4 miles north Ridgeway for fun at any time of year. Fishing and boating rule the day thanks to a tackle shop, refueling dock, and boat ramp on-site. Cast your line alongside pros, because this lake hosts numerous fishing tournaments every year.

Choose from bream, catfish, crappie, and bass. Land a trophy of all four species if you find a sweet fishing spot. The lake covers 19 square miles and there's plenty of room for everyone. If you don't have a boat, you can fish from the shore of the state park.

Discover the Desportes Island with the 2.3-mile loop trail. Scout out your perfect fishing spot not far from your campsite, and see plenty of trees on your hike.

Explore the north side of the lake to encounter Great Falls on the Catawba River. Whitewater enthusiasts love to shoot the rapids here.

The campground harbors 72 paved sites for both RVs and tents. Fifteen sites have waterfront views, so the lake's waves can lull you to sleep.

Notable campgrounds

  • Waterfront Campsites - Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Wateree right from your tent or RV at one of the 23 waterfront campsites.
  • Paved RV Sites - Set up your home away from home on one of the 100 paved sites, designed to accommodate even large RVs with ease.
  • Wooded Campsites - For a more secluded camping experience, choose a spot amid the park's wooded areas, offering both privacy and shade.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your preferred campsite, especially if you're eyeing one of the popular waterfront spots.
  • Consider visiting during the off-peak season for greater availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on the park's website for any last-minute cancellations that could open up a spot.
  • Explore nearby camping options if Lake Wateree is fully booked, as the surrounding area offers additional opportunities.

When to go

The best time to visit Lake Wateree State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winter visitors can enjoy quieter surroundings, but note that the tackle shop operates on reduced hours and the lake level may be low due to dam construction.

Know before you go

  • Check the latest park news for updates on lake levels and construction that may affect your visit.
  • Park hours are from sunrise to sunset, with the office open from 8am to 5pm on weekdays and 7am to 5pm on weekends.
  • Admission fees are $3 for adults, $1.50 for SC seniors, and $1 for children aged 6-15; those 5 and under enter free.
  • Pets are welcome in most outdoor areas, but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet.
  • Remember, there is no wifi available in the park, so plan accordingly for a digital detox.
80%
6 ratings · 2 reviews