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A travel guide for Myrtle Beach state parks
- May 10, 2022
- 3:08 am
It’d be great if Grand Strand-area state parks came with a user’s manual, wouldn’t it?
Well, this is pretty close! Myrtle Beach is fortunate to have two incredible state parks close by. There’s so much to see and do in each, and each has its uniqueness to appreciate.
Read before you venture out this summer. Also, here are a few things to know when you visit S.C. parks.
- Check park websites for up-to-date admission costs and hours.
- Consider ordering a park passport for admission to all 47 South Carolina state parks. They’re valid for one year!
- The park’s beaches are popular places all day, but especially for sunrise and sunset.
Traveler’s Companion for State Parks in Myrtle Beach
HUNTINGTON BEACH STATE PARK
This Atlantic beach and wetlands park features alligators, rich birdlife, and sea turtles. Egrets and herons frequent the Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail, which has a viewing deck. You can also walk the boardwalk over a lagoon and visit a Moorish-style castle.
Make a reservation for camping or day-use picnic areas.
Points of Interest
- Hikers enjoy the park’s three trails, all graded as easy. The Boardwalk and Kerrigan Nature Trail offer prime birding views. The Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail meanders through the pristine beach and coastal forest. It’s a paradise for birders, with the option to continue to the Murrells Inlet Jetty, an extra round trip of 6 miles.
- The park’s causeway is a terrific spot to see marsh wildlife.
- Tours, docent-led or self-guided, are great options to discover Atalaya. It’s a National Historic Landmark and the former home of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington.
- The Coastal Exploration Program is a delightful way to learn about wildlife. You can try beach-combing, birding, or kayaking, too.
- Download maps and brochures, including details about Atalaya and a birding checklist.
- Check here for frequently asked questions. Learn about the park’s dog policy, Wi-Fi situation, information about bike trails, and more.
MYRTLE BEACH STATE PARK
It’s a 312-acre site on land that Myrtle Beach Farms donated in 1934. South Carolina’s first state park was part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal Program. It includes a mile of underdeveloped beach.
Make a reservation for camping, cabins, or day-use picnic areas.
Points of interest
- The park features two short trails — the Sculptured Oak and Yaupon. Both are easy and lead to the beach. They give a peek at one-time forests that endured in Myrtle Beach.
- Many guests enjoy a walk on the fishing pier. See the gift shop first for ice cream to take with you.
- The Nature Center is fun to investigate. Beachcombers like this beach for shells and sharks’ teeth.
- The Sculpted Oak Nature Trail brings sightseers through the picturesque marine woodland.
- Download maps and brochures for the park and campground.
- Click here for frequently asked questions. Learn about fishing, picnic areas, and the lifeguard situation at the park.
Where to Stay: Brittain Resorts and Hotels
You’re in for a superlative experience when you choose Brittain Resort and Hotels. No matter which you choose, it’s a great place to stay, for a bit of serenity to be close to the action. Peruse a collection of oceanfront and specialty resorts for your next vacation.
Brittain Resorts are all over North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, and Pawleys Island. Book your stay today.
