Myrtle Beach State Park Campground

For folks right here in South Carolina looking for the ideal coastal getaway, the Myrtle Beach State Park Campground stands out as a true gem. Nestled along the pristine coastline of Myrtle Beach, this campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and convenient access to all the Grand Strand has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned RV enthusiast, a tent camping purist, or somewhere in between, this state park provides a welcoming and engaging environment for all ages. It's not just a place to pitch a tent or park your rig; it's an invitation to experience the very best of South Carolina's natural coastal charm.

Myrtle Beach State Park, established in 1936, holds the distinction of being South Carolina's very first state park. This rich history is evident in the well-preserved maritime forest that blankets much of the park, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling energy of Myrtle Beach. The campground itself is thoughtfully integrated into this natural setting, providing shaded sites and a genuine connection to the outdoors. It's a place where you can wake up to the sounds of the ocean, enjoy a morning stroll along the undeveloped beach, and still be just a short drive from world-class attractions. For South Carolina residents, this accessibility to both nature and entertainment makes Myrtle Beach State Park Campground an incredibly appealing destination for a weekend escape or an extended vacation.

Myrtle Beach State Park Campground is conveniently located at 4401 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, USA. Its prime location places you right within Myrtle Beach, yet the park’s natural setting allows for a feeling of escape. This means you’re mere minutes from the sandy shores of the Atlantic Ocean, often within a short walk from your campsite, especially for those in the main campground which is approximately 300 yards from the beach.

Accessibility to the campground is straightforward, with clear signage leading the way off of major routes. The park is easily reachable from across South Carolina, making it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a hassle-free journey to their vacation spot. Once inside the park, roads are generally well-maintained, though some reviewers have noted that certain areas can be a little tight for larger RVs, so careful site selection is always a good idea. The layout of the campground allows for relatively easy navigation, and the close proximity of amenities ensures everything you need is just a short walk or drive away. For those arriving by vehicle, there's ample parking available within the campground and near beach access points, though it's worth noting that parking can be limited during peak hours, particularly on summer weekends and holidays.

The Myrtle Beach State Park Campground prides itself on offering a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance your camping experience.

• Campsites with Hookups: The main campground provides a variety of sites, including those with individual water and electrical hookups. Many sites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, with others suitable for units up to 30 feet, as well as plenty of space for smaller units and tents.

• Full Hookup Sites: For maximum convenience, 138 sites offer full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer connections.

• Tent-Only Overflow Campground: A dedicated 30-site overflow campground is available for tent camping, typically open from Easter weekend through Labor Day, offering central water access (without electricity).

• Restrooms and Hot Showers: All campsites are conveniently located near clean and well-maintained restroom and hot shower facilities, ensuring comfort during your stay.

• Laundromat Facilities: On-site laundromat facilities are available, a practical amenity for longer stays or for refreshing your gear after a day at the beach.

• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the entire campground, allowing you to stay connected, plan your day, or share your adventures with friends and family.

• Ranger Station/Camp Store: Located at the campground entrance, the Ranger Station serves as both a registration point and a store. It offers limited grocery items, camping supplies, souvenirs, drinks, snacks, and firewood.

• Sanitary Dump Station: A dump station is available for RV campers.

• Pier Store: The fishing pier also has a store offering fishing supplies and other conveniences.

Myrtle Beach State Park Campground boasts a variety of features and highlights that make it a standout destination for campers in South Carolina.

• Direct Beach Access: One of the most significant highlights is the incredibly close proximity to the beach, allowing for easy and frequent visits to the Atlantic Ocean. Many sites are just a short walk away, providing unparalleled access to the sand and surf.

• Myrtle Beach State Park Pier: A centerpiece of the park, the fishing pier extends into the Atlantic, offering fantastic opportunities for fishing, crabbing, or simply enjoying panoramic ocean views. A South Carolina fishing license is not required to fish from the pier (daily fee applies), making it accessible for everyone to try their luck.

• Maritime Forest Setting: The campground is beautifully situated within a protected maritime forest, providing ample shade from towering pines and live oaks. This natural environment offers a quieter, more serene camping experience compared to more developed areas of Myrtle Beach.

• Nature Trails: Explore the park's natural beauty on the Yaupon Nature Trail and the Sculptured Oak Nature Trail. These easy-going, relatively flat hikes offer opportunities to observe local wildlife and appreciate the unique coastal habitat, which has been declared a Heritage Trust Site.

• Nature Center: The park features a Nature Center with interactive natural history displays, saltwater aquariums, and live animals. Educational programs about coastal habitats and native wildlife are offered throughout the year, providing an engaging learning experience for all ages.

• Cabins: For those seeking a more traditional lodging experience, the park also offers six fully furnished rental cabins, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. These are located in a separate area from the main campground, about 200 yards from the beach.

• Picnic Shelters: Several picnic shelters are available for group gatherings, family reunions, or a casual outdoor meal.

• Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including loggerhead sea turtles, various bird species, and other coastal creatures, offering fantastic opportunities for nature observation.

While specific, ongoing promotions can vary, it is always a good idea for South Carolina residents to check the official South Carolina State Parks website (southcarolinaparks.com) for the most current deals and special offers when planning a trip to Myrtle Beach State Park Campground. State parks often provide various discounts that can benefit local users.

Historically, and subject to change, discounts have been known to be available for different groups, so it is always worthwhile to inquire. Keep an eye out for potential promotions such as:

• Seasonal Specials: Parks often offer reduced rates or special packages during off-peak seasons or for longer stays. This can be a great way for South Carolina locals to enjoy the park with fewer crowds and at a more affordable price.

• Military Discounts: Many state parks and campgrounds offer discounts for active duty military members and veterans as a token of appreciation for their service. It's always advisable to present a valid military ID upon check-in to inquire about eligibility.

• Senior Discounts: Seniors may also be eligible for discounted rates, so be sure to ask if you qualify.

• Passport Programs: The South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism offers annual Passports that can significantly decrease admission and camping fees based upon usage. For frequent visitors to state parks, these passes can offer substantial savings.

• Membership Programs: While not specific to the campground, various camping or outdoor recreation membership programs sometimes offer reciprocal benefits or discounts at state parks. Check if any memberships you hold might be applicable.

Always remember to confirm any promotions or discounts directly with the park or through the official booking portal before finalizing your reservation, as terms and availability can change.

For reservations, general inquiries, or to get the most up-to-date information regarding Myrtle Beach State Park Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, USA (The specific address for GPS is often listed as 4401 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29575).

It is important to note that the mailing address is Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, USA, but for navigation, using 4401 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29575 is often more effective.

Park Office Phone: (843) 238-5325

Reservation Center Phone: 1-866-345-7275, option 1 (This is the statewide park reservation line.)

Pier Store Number: 843-238-5326

Nature Center Phone Number: 843-238-0874

For online reservations, you can typically visit the official South Carolina State Parks website and navigate to the Myrtle Beach State Park page. Online reservations must generally be made a minimum of one day in advance for camping or three days for cabins. If you wish to check into a campsite within 24 hours of your present time, you will usually need to call the park directly, as online reservations may not be accepted for such last-minute bookings.

Park Hours: Daily 6 a.m. - 10 p.m., March - Nov.; Daily 6 a.m. - 8 p.m., Dec. - Feb.

Ranger Station/Store Hours: These hours vary seasonally. From April - Sept. 8am-9:30pm; March, Oct. and Nov. 8am-8pm; Dec. -Feb. limited hours. It's always a good idea to check current hours, especially during off-peak seasons.

Myrtle Beach State Park Campground is exceptionally suitable for locals across South Carolina for a multitude of reasons, making it a prime choice for your next outdoor adventure. Firstly, its accessible location means you don't have to travel far to escape the daily grind and immerse yourself in nature. Being within Myrtle Beach offers the unique advantage of having both a serene natural environment and a vibrant tourist destination right at your fingertips. This allows for a flexible vacation experience: one day you might be enjoying the tranquility of the maritime forest or casting a line off the pier, and the next, you could be exploring the attractions, dining, and entertainment that Myrtle Beach is famous for.

For South Carolinians, the park serves as a familiar and trusted retreat, managed by the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. This ensures a consistent standard of cleanliness, maintenance, and service. The range of camping options—from full hookup RV sites to secluded tent-only areas—caters to diverse preferences and budgets, making it an inclusive destination for all types of campers. The presence of amenities like hot showers, laundromats, and complimentary Wi-Fi adds a layer of comfort that makes camping enjoyable for families, even those with younger children who might be new to the outdoors.

Furthermore, the educational programs at the Nature Center and the opportunity to explore the unique maritime forest offer engaging experiences that deepen appreciation for our state's natural heritage. Whether it's learning about local wildlife, taking a leisurely stroll on the nature trails, or simply relaxing on the less crowded stretches of beach, the park provides enriching activities for all ages.

In essence, Myrtle Beach State Park Campground offers South Carolina locals the perfect blend of convenient location, natural beauty, comfortable amenities, and diverse recreational activities, all within a trusted state park system. It's an ideal spot to create lasting memories with family and friends, truly embracing the coastal lifestyle without having to venture far from home.