Explore SC State Parks Near Myrtle Beach
South Carolina has more than 90,000 acres of protected state park land. Did you know? There are two really great state parks right in the Myrtle Beach area! Get ready to explore SC state parks near Myrtle Beach and get ready for fun!
Myrtle Beach State Park
Myrtle Beach State Park was the first state park in South Carolina to open back in 1936. The park features a mile of pristine beach area along with walking trails and part of the little maritime forest that is left in the area. The park allows surf fishing and fishing from the Myrtle Beach Pier without a fishing license. The park has two playgrounds and dozens of picnic shelters that can be reserved for group events. The walking trails include the Sculptured Oak Trail which leads to the maritime forest contained within the park. The other walking trail is the Yaupon trail. Both are easy difficulty and give you a glimpse of local wildlife as well. Of course, you can swim at the beach and lifeguards are on duty during the summer months. People also visit the park for bird watching, a popular pastime around these parts. During the off-season from November to February you can also ride horseback in the park. Dogs and pets are not permitted on the beach from May through October.
Huntington State Park
Huntington State Park is a dog-friendly park year-round for dogs on leashes only. Dogs are prohibited in buildings, including Atalaya Castle. The park features 2500 acres and 3 miles of beaches. Perhaps the biggest draw of this park is the Atalaya Castle on park grounds. It was the winter home of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington. Anna left behind a generous amount of land (part of which makes up Brookgreen Gardens) and lots of art and sculptures. Every September there is a very large and popular arts and crafts festival hosted at Atalaya in her honor. Surf fishing and fishing from the jetty are permitted with a SC fishing license. Swimming is permitted and lifeguards are on duty in the summer months. There are a few trails to explore in this state park. The Sandpiper Pond Trail is a good trail for hikers and the Kerrigan Trail is great for a nature walk. There are also numerous boardwalks out into the marsh for viewing wildlife. The other special thing about Huntington State Park is that it is a mecca for birdwatchers. Over 300 different bird species have been spotted in the park.
If you like to get out into nature and explore, you’ll love exploring the SC state parks near Myrtle Beach. With hiking and walking trails, fishing, swimming, bird watching and more, you’ll have a great time being out in nature in either park. Or explore them both! Have fun!