Colorful sunrises. Quiet sunsets. Our private 3-acre lake is built from a former soybean and tobacco meadow. Enjoy the lake walking path to relax and watch our wildlife.
The lake has reached its target depth of approximately 6 feet and is steadily maturing into a healthy stormwater ecosystem.
Over time, we plan to offer guest activities in careful phases, guided by safety, environmental stewardship, and what’s actually ready. When something new opens, we’ll post signs on-site and update this page.
Goldfish Feeding Pond
In spring 2026, we added a second water feature near the Welcome Center: the Goldfish Feeding Pond. This small ornamental pond holds approximately 10,000 gallons and is home to a thriving goldfish population.
We’re learning from this smaller habitat to help make decisions for the lake. Stop by, say hello to the fish, and ask at the front desk about picking up fish food. Watching the fish feed is fun for kids of all ages.
Current Lake Status
The lake is at its target depth of approximately 6 feet and continues to mature as a balanced ecosystem.
- Wildlife: Birds, frogs, minnows, bluegill, and bass are beginning to call the lake home. Please observe wildlife respectfully and from a distance.
- Shoreline & Path: We’re encouraging native plants around the lake to stabilize the shoreline. The walking path was built from excavated soil and can be uneven. Watch your footing and supervise children near the water’s edge.
All water activities are currently limited to staff-only testing. When guest activities open, we’ll post signs and update this page with dates, requirements, and how to register.
Can I swim in the lake?
No. The lake is part of our stormwater management system and is not designed for swimming or direct water contact. There are no lifeguards on duty. There is no swimming or wading at the lake.
Do not walk on the lake liner or down the slope toward the water. It is a serious fall hazard and can damage the lake. Violations may result in removal from the property and financial responsibility for repairs.
Are there other ways to enjoy water at Standing Pines?
Yes. We offer several ways to enjoy water fun.
- Goldfish Feeding Pond near the Welcome Center (ask about fish food!)
- Splash Grass — open select days and times
- Oasis Showers — seasonal, private, fully outdoor
- Mining with Finnegan — our water sluice where kids splash and play
- Neptune Island Water Park — about 15 minutes away in Hartsville; we offer discount tickets
A swimming pool is part of our long-term vision. We’ll share updates as plans progress.
Can I fish in the lake?
Not yet. Catch-and-release fishing will open in phases once fish populations are established. Until then, no fishing. We are protecting the young fish and letting the ecosystem balance.
No eating fish from the lake, ever. When fishing opens, we’ll announce it widely.
Can I bring my own kayak, canoe, or boat?
No. Only Standing Pines-provided boats may be used, and only during supervised sessions once guest boating officially opens. Personal watercraft of any kind — kayaks, canoes, inflatables, paddleboards — are not permitted. This protects the lake liner, guest safety, and stormwater compliance. management guidelines.
Why the restrictions on the lake?
The lake is managed as part of the property’s stormwater system. Restrictions protect guests and the environment. As the ecosystem matures and safety evaluations are complete, we’ll expand activities step by step.
Are there fish in the lake?
Yes. We’ve introduced minnows in May 2025, followed by initial populations of bluegill and bass in May 2026. We are progressing in carefully managed phases to support a healthy ecosystem.
Is the lake safe for pets?
Leashed pets may walk the path. No pets in the water. For off-leash play, use our two fenced dog parks.
What if I have more questions?
Please contact our Welcome Center staff. We are happy to help!
Note:
All activities, access, and policies are subject to change for safety, environmental, and regulatory reasons. Thank you for helping us protect both our guests and the natural beauty of Standing Pines!
Lake Rules
The lake is a shared space for relaxation and nature watching. Please follow these rules to keep everyone safe and the lake healthy:
- The walking path is the only guest-accessible area unless you’re participating in a staff-led activity.
- Do not walk on the lake liner. It is a safety hazard and damage is costly. Violations may result in removal from the property and financial responsibility for repairs.
- No swimming or wading. Ever.
- Boating is only permitted in Standing Pines-provided boats during official supervised sessions. No personal watercraft of any kind.
- Life jackets are required for all boating, regardless of age or swimming ability.
- Catch-and-release fishing is permitted only when officially announced, using Standing Pines-provided equipment only. No eating fish from the lake.
- Pets must be leashed and stay out of the water.
- Respect all wildlife and plants. Observe from a distance. Do not disturb.
- Children must be supervised at all times near the lake.
- Do not feed fish, birds, or wildlife except during designated staff-led sessions with approved food.
- Stay on designated paths. Surfaces may be uneven or slippery near the water’s edge.
- All lake activities require advance registration and a signed waiver. Participation is at your own risk.
Thank you for helping us keep Standing Pines safe, beautiful, and enjoyable for everyone.
Lake Activities and Waivers
Walking the path does not require a waiver. All other lake activities (supervised boating, guided programs) require advance registration and a signed waiver. You’ll acknowledge the lake rules, inherent risks of water-adjacent activities, and your agreement to follow staff instructions.
Failure to follow rules or staff instructions may result in removal from the activity or restricted lake access. All activities and policies are subject to change for safety, environmental, or regulatory reasons.
Thank You for Choosing Standing Pines
“Thank you for playing at Standing Pines! My family and I created this campground for yours to enjoy. We appreciate your help taking care of our lake, forest, and campsites as you discover memories together at Standing Pines with wildly comfortable camping!
We are so glad you are here. Enjoy your adventure!”
— Amy, Founder & General Manager
If you have any questions about the lake, activities, or anything else during your stay, our front desk staff are always happy to help. Please stop by the Welcome Center, call us at (843) 287-6169, or email us at info@campstandingpines.com.
Meet Standing Pines! We are a new, family‑owned campground in the Pee Dee region near Hartsville, South Carolina, offering wildly comfortable camping for RVs, cabins, and tents. Discover memories together with quiet country camping for the whole family at Standing Pines.
We are about 30 minutes from the I‑95 / I‑20 interchange near Florence, SC. Watch for owls flying through our pines, challenge each other to a round of mini golf, and laugh as your fur babies explore two large fenced dog parks perfect for zoomies. Enjoy full‑hookup RV sites and modern comforts like our Oasis outdoor showers, private bathhouse, strong Wi‑Fi, and 24/7 Laundry Lounge.
Explore nature with more than 1.5 miles of trails through our private forest or stroll around our 3‑acre private lake. Sunrise and sunset over the water are colorful shows most days.
In summer, we are just 15 minutes from Neptune Island Water Park, a regional favorite for families with kids. All year, we are about 20 minutes from the Darlington NASCAR racetrack and museum, plus fun South Carolina attractions like McLeod Farms and Antique Museum in McBee.
More into nature? We are 15 minutes from the National Sandhills Wildlife Refuge, with more than 47,000 acres of pine forest, ponds and rolling hills. Even closer, the South Carolina Sandhills State Forest offers another 45,000 acres of outdoor fun.
Want to stay a little longer and explore the region?
– 60 minutes to Columbia, SC
– 90 minutes to Charlotte, NC
– 2 hours to Myrtle Beach, SC
– 2.5 hours to Charleston, SC
Less than 4 hours’ easy driving from Savannah, Raleigh, Wilmington, Atlanta or Augusta, GA.