Santee / Santee Lakes KOA Journey Recreation

Santee / Santee Lakes KOA sits along the scenic north shore of Lake Marion, South Carolina's largest lake, making it an ideal destination for RV camping in Summerton, SC.

The campground features more than 120 Pull-Thru RV sites surrounded by majestic oaks draped in Spanish moss, tall pines, and tropical palmettos. Relax along the lakefront and enjoy beautiful sunsets, or reserve a Lakefront RV site for an unforgettable view. Santee Lakes KOA also offers brand-new Premium Cottages with linens included, Standard Cottages, and Duplex Cottages for families and larger groups.

Conveniently located off I-95, the campground is approximately 100 miles from both the North Carolina and Georgia state lines and just a 75-minute drive from Columbia and Charleston, making it a convenient South Carolina campground for travelers heading north or south.

Beyond the campground, you'll be minutes from Santee restaurants, shops, championship golf courses, Lake Marion fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. Enjoy swimming in the lake or pool, cast a line, relax on the beach, gather around the community fire pit, or challenge family and friends to sports and yard games. And don't forget your four-legged campers—KampK9 gives your pet room to run and play!

In addition to our beautiful setting, you're only minutes away from restaurants, shops, several championship golf courses, and excellent fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities. You can enjoy swimming in the lake or pool, try your luck at fishing, and gather with other campers around the community fire pit. Engage in sports and yard games with family and friends, or simply relax on the beach and soak in the natural beauty. Plus, your pet will love exercising at KampK9!

Fishing & Wildlife

Fishing & Wildlife

Santee Lakes KOA sits directly on Lake Marion, part of the legendary Santee Cooper lake system and one of the top freshwater fishing destinations in the country. Spanning over 110,000 acres, these record-breaking waters have produced the world-record Channel Catfish and South Carolina's record Largemouth Bass — and the fishing is outstanding year-round.What's Biting

  • Catfish — Blue, Flathead, Channel & White Catfish year-round; 20+ lb catches are common
  • Largemouth Bass — Lake Marion holds the SC state record at 16+ lbs
  • Striped Bass — Open October through June; prime spring and fall action
  • Crappie, Bream & Shellcracker — Great for families and first-timers

Book a Local Guide

Good to Know
  • SC freshwater fishing license required for anglers 16 and older
  • Licenses available at dnr.sc.gov, local bait shops, and nearby stores
  • Striped Bass season: October 1 – June 15 only

Paddleboarding

Paddleboarding

Glide across the glassy surface of Lake Marion right from the Santee Lakes KOA beach. With two miles of open water stretching out in front of the campground, paddleboarding here offers a peaceful way to explore the lake at your own pace — whether that's a sunrise solo session, a casual cruise along the shoreline, or a fun challenge for the kids.

Boating

Boating

The Santee Lakes KOA beach and dock put guests just steps from some of the best boating water in the Southeast. Lake Marion's 110,000 acres of open water offer endless opportunities — from a leisurely cruise watching bald eagles soar overhead to a full day exploring the lake's legendary stump fields, backwater swamps, and hidden coves. The campground's dock and boat ramp provide easy water access, and with a dedicated boat parking area on site, bringing your own vessel is simple and convenient.

Sports & Recreation

Sports & Recreation

A great lineup of outdoor amenities right inside the campground. Spike it out on the beach volleyball court with the lake as your backdrop, shoot hoops on the outdoor basketball court, or challenge your neighbors to a game of cornhole — a campground staple that never gets old. Younger campers will love the playground, while the sandy beach and swimming area on Lake Marion gives the whole family a place to cool off and play.

Local Area Recreation