While there is certainly no shortage of excitement in the Myrtle Beach area, sometimes that excitement can become a bit overwhelming. One of the best-kept secrets in all of the Myrtle Beach area is the calm and quiet peacefulness of Myrtle Beach State Park.
Located off of Hwy Business 17, just three miles south of downtown Myrtle Beach, the park is a rare oceanfront forest that provides a perfect escape for anyone looking to get away.
About The Park
Opened in 1936, Myrtle Beach State Park was the first state park in South Carolina. Its undeveloped beachfront forest is extremely rare and has been declared a Heritage Trust Site. The forest is comprised mostly of oak and southern magnolia trees and is populated with a number of rare wild animals.
Some of the best experiences at the park include ice cream cones from the gift shop on the pier, the self-led scavenger hunts, and searching the beach for seashells and shark teeth.
Fishing
One of the biggest reasons people come to the park is that it offers some of the best shore fishing in all of South Carolina. Fishing can be done right from the shore or from the parks impressive pier.
When fishing, visitors can expect to catch flounder, king mackerel, whiting, trout, and Spanish mackerel. There is plenty of information available on the pier to get you started, as well as a bait and tackle shop. You can even rent fishing rods right there, so there is no need to lug your own gear with you.
Camping
Camping is another reason that many visitors are attracted to the park. With 66 full hookup sites, there is plenty of room for everyone. All campsites are located close to hot showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities.
Of course, the best thing about camping at Myrtle Beach State Park is that the campground is only about 300 yards from the beach. More information on rates and reservations can be made through the park’s Ranger Station.
Nature Trails
Another popular aspect of the park is the walking and biking trails. There are nature trails that run throughout the park and they can be used for walking, running, or biking.
Birdwatchers will love the trails, as they will have the opportunity to see a number of popular South Carolina birds. Spring and fall are the best seasons for bird watching.
Scavenger Hunts
One of the most fun aspects of Myrtle Beach State Park is the self-led scavenger hunts that are available to visitors. These adventures take about an hour and walk visitors along trails that total about one mile. There are currently two different scavenger hunts, and each educates visitors about different things.
Scavengers will be led around the park’s nature trail where they will stop at various points along the way to read educational signs. The information contained in these signs will answer the questions on the scavenger hunt. More information about these hunts can be obtained from the park’s Nature Center.
In addition to the two scavenger hunts, visitors can also play Nature Bingo! The Nature Center provides two different bingo cards, where each spot on the card is something visitors can find in the park. The goal is to complete a “Bingo” by finding the different nature items.
Whether you’re looking for great fishing, quiet camping, relaxing nature trails, or just some plain old peace and quiet, Myrtle Beach State Park is a literal oasis in the middle of a bustling community. This is one of the reasons that Myrtle Beach can provide both excitement and relaxation, making it an ideal place to live.
Address: 4401 South Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29575
Phone: (843) 238-5325
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