Santee / Santee Lakes KOA Journey Recreation

Santee Lakes KOA is situated on the scenic north shore of Lake Marion, South Carolina's largest lake. The campground offers over 120 Pull-Thru RV sites, surrounded by majestic oaks draped in Spanish moss, tall pines, and tropical palmettos. You can relax by the lakefront and enjoy picturesque sunsets over the water, or choose a Lakefront RV site for a stunning view. We also offer brand-new Premium cottages (linens included), Standard cottages, and Duplex cottages for 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, key tourism destinations in South Carolina. This makes it an ideal stop for travelers heading south or north.

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!

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.

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

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