Myrtle Beach State Park wilderness guide
State Park · SC

Myrtle Beach State Park

Situated along the bustling Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach State Park offers a serene escape with its protected beach, pine forests, and diverse wildlife.

State Park3122+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

312

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Myrtle Beach State Park

Situated along the bustling Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach State Park offers a serene escape with its protected beach, pine forests, and diverse wildlife.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Myrtle Beach State Park, located in South Carolina, encompasses a stunning coastal environment that provides a contrast to the nearby, more commercial stretches of the Grand Strand. Established in 1936, it's one of the first state parks in South Carolina and offers visitors a unique blend of oceanfront beauty and inland forest environments. The park's geography includes a significant stretch of beach - ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing - as well as maritime forests home to native plants and wildlife. The park is a haven for bird watchers as local species abound, particularly during migration seasons. Historical buildings constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps add depth to the park's rich heritage. Beyond recreation and relaxation, the park plays a vital role in coastal ecology education with its Nature Center. Myrtle Beach State Park's appeal lies in its accessibility, diverse recreational offerings, and its role as a preserved natural sanctuary next to one of America's bustling beach destinations.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Myrtle Beach State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The scenic fishing pier that extends into the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for panoramic views and angling.✦ A rich maritime forest where visitors can spot a variety of bird species and other wildlife.✦ Educational programs and exhibits at the Nature Center, highlighting local ecosystems and conservation efforts.✦ Oceanfront campground offering the unique experience of sleeping to the sounds of crashing waves.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Myrtle Beach State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Myrtle Beach State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Myrtle Beach State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Myrtle Beach State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Myrtle Beach State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Myrtle Beach State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Myrtle Beach State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Park admission fee required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Myrtle Beach State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Myrtle Beach State Park Campground

Located close to the beach, offers modern amenities and a serene environment.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Myrtle Beach State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Surfside Beach, South Carolina
⌖ 3.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Surfside Beach, South Carolina

Surfside Beach, South Carolina, is a friendly coastal town known for its surf breaks, wide sandy beaches, and outdoor fun like kayaking and fishing. It’s perfect for active travelers looking for a laid-back coastal adventure.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Murrells Inlet, South Carolina
⌖ 9.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

Murrells Inlet is a coastal retreat offering kayaking, fishing, and hiking adventures. Explore marshlands and spot wildlife while enjoying a charming seaside vibe.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Conway, South Carolina
⌖ 14.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Conway, South Carolina

Conway, SC, is an adventure-friendly town known for its beautiful river landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts can paddle, hike, and camp amidst the natural wonders surrounding this historic locale.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Pawleys Island, South Carolina
⌖ 18.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Pawleys Island blends coastal charm with outdoor adventures like kayaking, biking, and fishing. Explore serene beaches, marshlands, and historic sites in this charming seaside town.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
⌖ 18.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

North Myrtle Beach offers great coastal adventures with sandy beaches, kayaking through salt marshes, fishing piers, and scenic bike trails. Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking a relaxed seaside escape along South Carolina’s Grand Strand.

Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Longs, South Carolina
⌖ 23.32 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Longs, South Carolina

Longs, South Carolina offers a quieter doorway to the Grand Strand’s outdoor treasures with hiking, kayaking, fishing, and bird-watching in tranquil coastal settings. Ideal for travelers seeking authentic lowcountry nature adventures beyond the beaches.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Myrtle Beach State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Electric Bikes Delivered to Your Door: 24‑Hour Rentals in Surfside Beach
ADVEXPEDITION
Surfside Beach, South Carolina
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Electric Bikes Delivered to Your Door: 24‑Hour Rentals in Surfside Beach

A 24‑hour e‑bike rental from Beach'N E‑Bikes in Surfside Beach with delivery options (standard $20 fee) and multiple electric models—this guide explains booking, delivery windows, included gear, and costs.

Water ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Glide the Shoreline: Skimboard Rental at Surfside Beach
ADVEXPEDITION
Surfside Beach, South Carolina
SurfADV Bookable

Glide the Shoreline: Skimboard Rental at Surfside Beach

Rent lightweight skimboards from Eternal Wave Surf Shop to skim across wet sand and small shore breaks; this guide explains what the rental covers and what to expect.

SurfPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
A Smooth, Luxurious Cruise Through the Intercostal Waterways
ADVEXPEDITION
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Sightseeing TourADV Bookable

A Smooth, Luxurious Cruise Through the Intercostal Waterways

Experience a relaxed, top-of-the-line outing aboard Happy Harbors Watersports’ 24' SouthBay Premium Tri-Toon—perfect for larger groups who want a calm sightseeing cruise without a slide.

Sightseeing TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip