Campground at James Island County Park, Sept 30 to Oct 9, 2017

Rating:  4.5 on a scale of 5

Location: We visited Charleston a couple of years ago but were unable to get reservations here. This time, I made reservations well in advance at this popular campground. It is located about 6 miles south of historic Charleston and is very close to Jolly Beach and other sites on James Island. Everything we wanted to do during our stay was easy to access. Because the campground is located in this beautiful, large county park, there are lots of things to do right in the park. 

Lot size: We had a large back-in site (#8) with a good amount of privacy and shade. There are full hook-ups, a picnic table, and fire ring at each site.

We had plenty of room for our tow dolly and car as well. There are 124 sites and 10 cottages in the campground. 

Amenities: James Island County Park is a very popular recreational area for the people of Charleston and surrounding areas. It is 643-acres and has many activities. There is an admission fee, but that is included in the campground fees. There are miles of paved hiking/bike trails, volley ball courts, horseshoe pits, spray play pad, and more.

There is a large lake with fresh water fishing (no license needed) and a trail around it. An off-leash dog park is also located along the lake. Sadie had a blast there playing with other dogs in and out of the water.

Salt water fishing and crabbing is available at the fishing dock (license required). 

There are additional activities in the park for a fee including: the climbing wall, 18-hole disc golf course, Splash Zone Waterpark (open April to October 1), and bicycle, kayak and paddle boat rentals. 

The laundry area was very close to our RV and very convenient. There are four washers and four dryers in a sheltered area of the bathhouse building. Quarters for laundry are available at the office.

There are multiple small dumpsters and recycling bins located in a few locations throughout the campground. We had fun seeing three raccoons that liked to climb in the dumpster near our site.

The park hosts the Festival of Lights during the holiday season. Many of the decorations are already up and we saw park staff putting up more during our stay.

Cost: $392; $43.55/night

Management: Check in was quick and efficient. Souvenirs and camping supplies are available in the office. The people in the office were friendly and helpful. 

Ice, firewood, and propane are also sold at the office.

A tag for your car is provided at check in that provides admission to the park. A passcode is provided to enter the park after hours. Also, when our nephew visited us for dinner, I picked up a pass at the office and left it at the entrance gate so he did not have to pay to visit us (although, I think it's only $2/person). 

General Comments:  We loved this place and would highly recommend it to anyone interested in visiting the charming town of Charleston. 

Website: www.ccprc.com/68/James-Island-County-Park