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D_E_Bishop's avatar
D_E_Bishop
Explorer
Feb 24, 2016

Going to Charleston for Reunion

We are going to a Submarine reunion at the No. Charleston Marriott on Goer Dr. Sept. 13 - 16. I want to make a trip of it and hate flying so we need a CG close to town. Mt. Pleasant, James Island and Oak Plantation are the three that I have read about here and TL Book but the mileage from the CGs to No. Charleston are vague and confusing to me. It is like trying to give directions to someone from back there to some point in Los Angeles. Unless you're familiar it's near impossible.

So what CG would be closest and easiest to get to the hotel from, are there any better CGs? I'm a Veteran but not retired so FamCamps are out.
  • Unfortunately, Summerville nor Goose Creek has anything besides the KOA. Next closest think out this way is Givhans Ferry State Park ant that would be little over 1 hour drive.
  • We really liked Oak Plantation (seemed to be easier to get to than James Is too), BUT they are both on the opposite side of Charleston from where you want to go. I'm guessing one of the KOAs might work better - or you might check more inland, to see if there's anything (Goose Creek & Summerville come to mind, as they are closer to North Charleston.)
  • What times will you be traveling from the campground to the reunion? That will help determine the best campground to choose. I live in the area and know the traffic patterns.

    But without knowing that information, James Island County Park (JICP) would be the best. Usually you are either going against rush hour traffic or across the main grain so not bad. Oak Plantation would be similiar traffic pattern, but not as nice as JICP.

    KOA N. Charleston would be the shortest and easiest commute, but it isn't usually the place I recommend unless convenience is the main goal.

    KOA Mt Pleasant while nice, would have the worst traffic since a lot of days I526 is very slow going for a couple hours. But, your schedule may make this the best choice.

    Shame you are not retired, as the FamCamp off of Redbank would be idea. If any of your buds are retired, you could check to see if they would sponsor your stay. You just may find out one is staying at the FamCamp and can sponsor you. There are usually a number of sites available.

    When you figure out where you are staying, let me know and I will send you clear directions on the best route. Most folks follow the GPS but there are a number of main roads you can take to save some headaches. Don't worry, I won't be sending you through small neighborhoods. But after 50 years in Charleston, I know my way around.
  • #1 you don't want to stay too close to North Charleston... lot more crime up there than in Charleston proper.

    #2 my experience is that James Island County Park is the best park in that area. Price point, amenities, site size, ease of access to the city... all the best at JICP.
  • i would use the James Island county park. You are not that far from anywhere in Charleston. YOu can jump over to the downtown area in like 10 minutes depending on traffic. YOu will have to cross the bridge to get tot submarine and ship site across the river. BUT its an easy drive. everything/major roads, etc. runs around the town.
    e were the Marriott is it would be a a few turns and then up the I-26, I would not use the I-526. the other way(I-26) would be a straighter shot.
    but it should be easy to get too from James Island. We have camped there 4 times and once last year. We love it there..
    randy

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