Myrtle Beach State Park offers something increasingly rare along South Carolina’s Grand Strand: an undeveloped stretch of oceanfront where maritime forest meets the Atlantic. Spanning 312 acres in Horry County, this coastal gem provides a striking contrast to the commercial bustle just minutes away, preserving one of the last significant stands of maritime forest on the northern South Carolina coast.

The park’s mile-long beach draws swimmers, sunbathers, and shell collectors, while the pier is a favorite among anglers casting for flounder, whiting, and spot-tail bass. Beyond the sand, a network of nature trails winds through a dense canopy of live oaks, loblolly pines, and wax myrtles — the Sculptured Oak Nature Trail is a standout, showcasing wind-shaped trees draped in Spanish moss.

Campers can choose from full-hookup RV sites, tent sites tucked among the trees, or rustic cabins steps from the shore. Sites fill quickly during summer, so reservations well in advance are essential. The park’s campground is one of the most sought-after on the East Coast for good reason: falling asleep to the sound of waves without leaving your tent is hard to beat.

Spring and fall bring milder crowds, comfortable temperatures in the 60s and 70s, and excellent birding during migration season. Summer is peak beach season but expect heat, humidity, and full campgrounds. Winter visitors enjoy solitude and dramatic skies.

Whether you’re camping oceanside or just escaping the Myrtle Beach strip for an afternoon, this park delivers a genuine coastal Carolina experience.

Explore Nearby

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• Georgetown Light — Lighthouse in South Carolina
• Green Swamp Byway — Scenic Byway in North Carolina
• Francis Marion National Forest — National Forest in South Carolina
• Sumter National Forest — National Forest in South Carolina