Myrtle Beach State Park
A serene coastal oasis offering pristine beaches, shaded trails, and a historic fishing pier, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Myrtle Beach State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene coastal oasis offering pristine beaches, shaded trails, and a historic fishing pier, perfect for a peaceful escape.
"A peaceful break from the crowds, this park is a hidden gem worth every minute!"
🚗 Parking Peace of Mind
Avoid July crowds by using rideshares or heading north for quieter spots with free parking after 5 PM.
🎣 Fishing Fun
The pier offers ample rod holders and rulers to help with your catch. Souvenirs and refreshments available nearby.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine Beachfront
Oceanfront
Miles of clean, sandy shores perfect for relaxing, swimming, and soaking up the sun. Enjoy the calming waves.
Fishing Pier
Oceanfront
Cast a line or simply enjoy panoramic ocean views from this iconic pier. Great for spotting marine life.
Nature Trails
Forested areas
Explore shaded walking paths through maritime forests, offering a peaceful contrast to the beach.
Nature Center
Near entrance
Discover local flora and fauna with interactive exhibits. A great stop for families and curious minds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds: Find Your Peace
Park Entry & Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Peace of Mind
Avoid July crowds by using rideshares or heading north for quieter spots with free parking after 5 PM.
🎣 Fishing Fun
The pier offers ample rod holders and rulers to help with your catch. Souvenirs and refreshments available nearby.
🚶♀️ Trail Exploration
Enjoy well-shaded, level trails. Don't miss the Pond Trail extension for a fuller nature experience.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning sunsets, sunrises, and unique photo ops, especially from the pier.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Peace of Mind
Avoid July crowds by using rideshares or heading north for quieter spots with free parking after 5 PM.
🎣 Fishing Fun
The pier offers ample rod holders and rulers to help with your catch. Souvenirs and refreshments available nearby.
🚶♀️ Trail Exploration
Enjoy well-shaded, level trails. Don't miss the Pond Trail extension for a fuller nature experience.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning sunsets, sunrises, and unique photo ops, especially from the pier.
🏕️ Camping Comforts
Campsites offer water and electricity. Bathrooms are clean but may lack privacy for some.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Myrtle Beach State Park for its peaceful atmosphere, clean beaches, and natural beauty, offering a welcome respite from the busier tourist areas. The fishing pier and nature trails are frequently highlighted as enjoyable amenities. Some minor drawbacks include varying levels of privacy in campsites and bathrooms.
"This State Park is beautiful they have shade areas for a picnic, the pier for fishing and the beautiful beach for relaxing by the water. We had a great time visiting the park. Entrance is only 8.00 dls. and you can pay with a credit card."
Blanca Petrillo
"Went camping here a few weeks ago. Great experience. Your camp site will have an electrical outlet and a water spout. There is also a grill/ fire pit in your area as well. I had a nice corner lot. The bathroom was clean but not like home. Not as much privacy as I was expecting. The gaps in the stall made it uncomfortable for me to go. Otherwise I definitely recommend staying/ camping/ glamping here. Right on the beach, perfect for fishing and swimming."
Lakisha Hoskins
"Myrtle Beach State Park—A Peaceful Break from the Crowds!
As out-of-towners visiting Myrtle Beach, we were looking for something quieter and more natural—and Myrtle Beach State Park was the perfect find. Just a few minutes from the main strip, it felt like stepping into a totally different world. The shady walking trails, wide-open beach, and calm ocean views gave us a chance to slow down, breathe, and actually enjoy the coast without the noise and traffic.
We loved how clean and well-maintained everything was, from the restrooms to the nature center. The fishing pier gave us a great view of the beach, and we loved exploring the park and spotting the local wildlife. If you’re looking to visit the area and want a break from the usual tourist spots, this park is a hidden gem worth every minute!!"
Cory Knight
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Myrtle Beach State Park is conveniently located just south of the main Myrtle Beach strip. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors find it a peaceful retreat just a short drive from the city's hustle and bustle.
Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use rideshare services to reach the park, especially if you plan on exploring different areas.
To avoid traffic, especially during peak season, consider visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours. If parking near the boardwalk is an issue, local advice suggests heading north to quieter areas with easier parking.
Myrtle Beach State Park is a short drive from popular spots like Broadway at the Beach and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. It's also a convenient base for exploring attractions further south, like Huntington Beach State Park.
Yes, there are several RV parks and campgrounds near Myrtle Beach State Park, including Lakewood Camping Resort and Ocean Lakes Campground, offering various amenities for RV travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Myrtle Beach State Park is typically around $8.00 per vehicle, and you can usually pay with a credit card. This fee grants access to the park's beaches, trails, and picnic areas.
Myrtle Beach State Park generally closes around 10 PM, allowing visitors to enjoy the beach and trails well into the evening. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for any seasonal changes or specific hours.
Yes, booking camping sites at Myrtle Beach State Park in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as they can fill up quickly. You can typically book through the park's official reservation system.
While the park entrance fee covers access to the pier, there might be a separate small fee for fishing from the pier. Check with the park staff or the pier store for current rates.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, state parks often offer resident discounts. It's advisable to check the official South Carolina State Parks website for any available resident rates or passes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing from the pier, exploring nature trails, picnicking, and visiting the Nature Center. The park also offers camping and is a great spot for birdwatching.
Compared to the main Myrtle Beach strip, the beach at Myrtle Beach State Park is significantly less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. Weekday visits are even quieter.
Yes, the park has shaded picnic areas with tables and grills, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic.
You can spot various coastal birds, marine life from the pier, and small mammals along the nature trails. The park's diverse habitats support a rich array of wildlife.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the beach, the Nature Center, and the well-maintained trails. The playground also offers a fun space for younger children.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Pier
Yes, the fishing pier is a popular spot for anglers. You can rent or purchase fishing gear and bait from the small store located at the pier entrance.
Common catches from the pier include whiting, flounder, bluefish, and pompano, depending on the season. The pier is equipped with numerous rod holders to assist anglers.
Typically, a South Carolina fishing license is required for individuals fishing from the pier. You can usually purchase one at the pier store or online.
The pier offers seating with shelter, fishing rulers, and up to 18 fishing rod holders. There's also a small store for souvenirs, refreshments, and fishing supplies.
Fishing can be good throughout the day, but many anglers find success during dawn and dusk, or during tidal changes. The pier is open until the park closes at 10 PM.
🎫 🏕️ Camping
The park offers campsites for tents and RVs, equipped with electrical outlets and water spouts. Some sites also include a grill/fire pit. Glamping options may also be available.
Campsite privacy can vary. While some sites are described as nice corner lots, others may have gaps in stall dividers in the bathrooms, which some visitors find less private.
Pet policies can change. It's best to check the official Myrtle Beach State Park website or contact them directly for the most current information regarding pets in the campground and park.
Campers have access to clean bathrooms, electrical hookups, water spouts, and grills/fire pits. The park's amenities like the beach and trails are also readily accessible.
While Huntington Beach State Park is known for its wooded and private tent camping, Myrtle Beach State Park offers a convenient option for beach access and camping when other parks are full.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the nature trails can be an adventure for children, with opportunities to spot local wildlife. The park's picnic areas are ideal for family lunches, and the overall atmosphere is more relaxed than the bustling main strip, making it a stress-free outing. Remember to bring sunscreen and plenty of water for a comfortable day out.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
While fishing from the pier requires a South Carolina fishing license, the experience is often rewarding. The pier's accessibility until park closing allows for both morning and evening fishing sessions, and the views are an added bonus.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers and Hikers
The Pond Trail extension is particularly recommended for a more immersive experience. The level terrain and strategically placed benches make these trails accessible and enjoyable for a leisurely walk. It's a perfect way to connect with the natural beauty of the South Carolina coast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Myrtle Beach State Park
One of the highlights is the Pond Trail extension, which provides an even deeper immersion into the park's natural beauty. Along the trails, you'll find placard signs offering insights into the local flora and fauna. These paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a moment of tranquility away from the beach crowds.
These trails are a fantastic way to experience the park's maritime forest ecosystem. They are accessible and well-maintained, making them suitable for most visitors, including families. The peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make them a must-do for anyone visiting the park.
The Iconic Fishing Pier
Anglers will find the pier well-equipped with numerous rod holders and fishing rulers to assist with their catch. The small store at the pier's entrance is a convenient stop for purchasing bait, tackle, souvenirs, and refreshments. Whether you're an experienced angler or a casual observer, the pier offers a quintessential Myrtle Beach experience.
Even if you don't plan to fish, a walk along the pier is highly recommended. It offers a unique perspective of the beach and the vast ocean, making it a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation. The pier is accessible until the park's closing time, allowing for beautiful sunset views.
Camping at Myrtle Beach State Park
While the park offers a great location, some campers have noted that the privacy of the campsites and bathroom facilities can vary. The bathrooms are clean but may have gaps in stall dividers, which some visitors find less than ideal. Despite this, the overall experience is highly recommended for its proximity to the ocean and the park's natural attractions.
Booking in advance is crucial, especially during peak seasons, as campsites tend to fill up quickly. For those seeking a more secluded camping experience, nearby Huntington Beach State Park is often mentioned as an alternative with more wooded and private tent sites.
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