- Santee State Park
The best camping in Santee State Park, SC
85% (10)
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Santee State Park.
The best camping in Santee State Park, SC
85% (10)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Santee State Park adventure.
Camper favorites near Santee State Park
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Hannah
2 weeks ago
Tent
We loved tent camping on the land!! Weather was perfect and views were amazing!! We enjoyed honey tasting and getting to meet the owners.
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Andria
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
I LOVED the lights in the trees and the use of the shower and kitchen in the house!
Beautiful property with walking trails and the host was very communicative and made us feel welcomed. Sites are well spaced and nicely kept.
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B
Bianca
2 weeks ago
30 ft Class C
With kids
A gorgeous, quiet and open space spot. Definitely recommend.
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Craig
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Incredible property, well manicured sites. This was a peaceful camping trip and Dustin was a five star host. Very responsive to any questions, and made our trip memorable. This is a top tier camp site with clean, well-maintained amenities, and quiet!
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Joey
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
secluded quite clean and boat access. we will be back again
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Lisa
3 weeks ago
Tent
I always enjoy camping here. The site is private and and adding on firewood saves space in the car. I brought new friends this time and they loved it. Meg is always very responsive. I will continue to come back every year.
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R
Raymond
November 2025
Mona
November 2025
26 ft fifth wheel
With pets
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!
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Annie
November 2025
Tent
With pets
It was a great experience. My dog lived being off leash in the trails of the woods on the property. Thank you Michael!
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Allison
November 2025
Tent
With kids
This was the perfect place to stop on our trip. Our children absolutely loved your property — especially the swing with the lights and the axe-throwing area, which was a huge hit! We also really appreciated your generosity in letting us use your bathroom and kitchen — that meant a lot after a long day on the road. It was such a pleasure meeting you and getting to chat for a bit.
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Patty
October 2025
30 ft Class C
With pets
Sadly we had so much rain, we couldn’t enjoy the property. We could see it had a lot to offer!!
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Dale
October 2025
Tent
We had an awesome time. There was plenty of fire wood cut to collect and the camping spots were well maintained. Made it really easy to just pull up unload and set up. Definitely will be planning another stay!
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Denis
October 2025
40 ft travel trailer
With pets
Super accommodating. We had an issue and she was quick to say "no problem ". Lots of space, friendly dogs. Had someone meet us to show us how to get in, where to park.
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Danielle
October 2025
5 ft campervan
I was the only one there camping in a tent. I felt very comfortable and safe and it was nice to have an outlet to charge my laptop.
I had an amazing stay while I was there. The staff was so nice and helpful.. The farm was in beautiful condition. The animals looked happy and I loved waking up to the roosters Crow in the morning. The hiking trails were a pleasant surprise to have. They’re very well maintained. The bathroom was clean and very pretty.
I got the bottle feed the baby goats in the morning and that was so much fun. They were so cute.
There is a Dollar General right down the road if you need anything.
I will be back I highly recommend..
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Donnie
October 2025
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
Truly a hidden gem. My daughter and I had a daddy/daughter weekend while mom was away for work. It was the most relaxing trip, very peaceful with the exception of some people doing what I assume was target practice for awhile. The site was excellent. We spent most of the time in the gazebo watching movies. The hot tub is different than pictured and is an inflatable one. Make sure it's on and running when you get there. Very nice bathroom and OUTDOOR shower. I already have another trip planned in a a few months. Dustin was excellent with communication and always responded very quickly.
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Kera
October 2025
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
This place was magical. Dustin was so kind, accommodating, and responded to questions very quickly. Site 2 has a hot tub that was perfect! Everything is clean. Perfect "glamping" location with landscaping all around you. We loved relaxing in the gazebo, spending time outdoors without losing the luxuries usually found indoors, like tv and fridge. Little to no insects. Cobblestone fire pit. Beautiful lighting and romantic atmosphere. Kayaks for use. Washer/dryer and laundry soap were provided. My husband was obsessed with the outdoor shower. I was grateful for the warm, clean, gorgeous bathroom. We went for a late evening stroll, and the fairy lights and trails were beautiful. We were truly impressed! We WILL be back!
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Mimi
October 2025
Tent
Michael is such a kind and generous host! The cabin is a hoot and has everything you could need (including serious hot water). I felt quite safe and very comfortable.
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Lynne
October 2025
19 ft travel trailer
Safe spot for a stop over while traveling, close to 95. The Oasis bar is an experience of it's own! We stayed near the house and got a quiet night's sleep. There is a nice private spot out backwould definitely stay there next time.
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Michael
October 2025
20 ft campervan
This was a very nice quiet spot that met our needs. Jennifer was very welcoming and made certain all of our needs were met. We would certainly stay here again!
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Lynne
October 2025
23 ft Class C
Lovely space and the addition of the hot tub was super enjoyable. Definitely recommend a layover here as it’s worth it for sure!
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Other options near Santee State Park
The best camping in Santee State Park, SC guide
Overview
About
Calling all birdwatchers! Osprey, great blue heron, painted buntings, you’ll find them all here at Santee State Park. Wander down the short nature trails, or simply keep an eye out for your flighty friends as you fish off the pier of Lake Marion. If you’d rather jump in the water than pull up your own catfish, swim at your own risk! There are no lifeguards, but plenty of alligators in the swampy, shallow areas. As long as you don’t feed or provoke them, you’ll be just fine sunbathing on the banks of Lake Marion or doing some water skiing. Santee State Park is the perfect wildlife-filled nature getaway, complete with a stunning view each night as the sun sets below the cypress trees in the middle of the lake.
Notable campgrounds
- Lakeshore Campground: Enjoy the serenity of Lake Marion with campsites right on the water's edge, perfect for anglers and nature lovers.
- Cypress View Campground: Set amid a stunning cypress forest, this campground offers a tranquil retreat and a chance to spot local wildlife.
- Parkside Camping: Ideal for families, these sites are conveniently located near the park's amenities and recreational areas.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early, especially for peak season stays, to ensure your spot amid the natural beauty of Santee State Park.
- Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
- Keep an eye on cancellations as last-minute openings can provide unexpected opportunities.
- Explore nearby camping options if Santee State Park is fully booked, as the surrounding area offers additional adventures.
When to go
The best time to visit Santee State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer months can be hot and humid, while winter offers a peaceful, less crowded experience. Avoid holiday weekends if you prefer a quieter visit.
Know before you go
- Check the park's operating hours, which are 6am to dark daily, and the office hours from 8:30am to 5pm.
- Admission fees are $3 for adults, with discounts for SC seniors and children, and free for those under 5.
- Pets are welcome in designated cabins and most outdoor areas, but must be leashed and well-behaved.
- Stay connected with available wifi and take advantage of the electric vehicle charging station.
- Remember to pay your admission at the park office, store, or one of the green iron ranger boxes.
85%
10 ratings · 3 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
50 ft Class A · With kids ·
Santee Campground
Lovely campground with a great view of the lake. My kids loved the playground across the street and all the wildlife.
J
Joy H.
4 reviews
Recommends
· September 2017
check the state parks website for more information
very family friendly, no alcohol, lots of fishermen
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John W.
8 years on Hipcamp
Not recommend
· June 2017
Campgrounds are good but lake is dangerous. Don't take your own boat! Opt for the guided fishing trip.
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Patricia B.
8 years on Hipcamp