The best camping near Lake Wateree State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Wateree State Park adventure.

80% (6 reviews)
80% (6 reviews)

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

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Community favorites near Lake Wateree State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Lake Wateree State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Wateree State Park

100%
(29)

Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · 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
100%
(244)

Camping on Pipers Pond

2 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Eastover, SC
Learn more about this land: Watch the sun and moon rise over the pond from the grassy knoll in the edge of the woods or under the trees. Enjoy paddling around the pond, fishing and watching the ducks and geese during the day and relaxing around the fire pit at night. We offer 2 campsites on the pond on our private property. They are both slightly sloped.  Site 1 is on the grassy knoll overlooking the pond. It is sunny early in the day and gets shady as the day progresses. It is closer to the outhouse. Site 2 is under the trees and right beside the pond. It gets spotty sun throughout the day. We live through the woods past the campsites. An outhouse with composting toilet, potable water, picnic table, grill, fire pit, fire wood and trash can are provided. Please note that we do not offer a 30 amp camper hookup, only a 15 amp electrical cord running from our house that will run lights, but not a/c or heat.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$36
 / night

The best camping near Lake Wateree State Park 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.

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