GCR STATE PARK GUIDE
Bookending the South Strand coastline are two treasured environmental sanctuaries: The South Carolina State Parks at Myrtle Beach and Huntington Beach. Our local state parks showcase the virgin landscapes that preceded this tourism-turned-coastal region. The development and urbanization that now characterizes the Myrtle Beach area is a relatively recent appearance. Offering a glimpse into the past, the maritime forests distinguishing these parks are a nature lover’s paradise. Between hiking, fishing, and bird-watching, the state parks present countless ways to enjoy the natural wonders of the Atlantic Coast.
If you’re considering a visit to the parks, below is some information to guide your planning.
MYRTLE BEACH STATE PARK
Whether you savor the day posted along the one-mile stretch of protected beach or choose to wander through the woods, Myrtle Beach State Park deserves a space on your vacation calendar. Opened in 1936, this historic park is known for its surf fishing, campgrounds, and commitment to wildlife preservation. You can devote a few days or hours to enjoying this outdoor jewel.
Things to Do
Pack your rods and reels for an afternoon of saltwater recreation at the Fishing Pier, or rent a rod from the pier gift shop. Both surf and pier fishing are permitted, though make sure to familiarize yourself with park rules.
Drop into the Education Center to learn about native wildlife, including fish, reptiles, butterflies, and birds. Myrtle Beach State Park Nature Center hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The park hosts regular events, including educational sessions with park animals and craft projects inspired by nature.
Take an easy hike through the forest on one of the two half-mile nature trails. Here, you can appreciate the live oak, hollies, southern magnolia trees, and native wildflowers like the rain lily. Exercise your body and mind with the park’s self-led scavenger hunt, which takes hikers on an informative journey guided by educational signs positioned around the paths.
Reserve your campsite or a quaint cabin in advance to boost your state park experience. Start your day greeted by the calls of sea birds and close your evening with the songs of crickets and cicadas. Campgrounds are equipped with picnic shelters, grills, showers, restrooms, and a laundromat. If you spend the night, be sure to catch the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean.
HUNTINGTON BEACH STATE PARK
Dive into a piece of local history with a visit to Huntington Beach State Park, home to the Atalaya Castle landmark. This park is known for its salt marsh and fantastic birding (arguably, the best in the state). Circling the causeway, the jetty, and the beach, over 300 species of birds have been sighted on park grounds.
Things to Do
This park offers two hiking trails, the longest being the Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail, which spans two miles. Here, you might catch a glimpse of herons, storks, spoonbills, and anhingas. Bring your binoculars or camera to capture the breathtaking wildlife wading in the marsh. Use the park’s birding checklist to keep track of your lucky viewing.
The Nature Center at Huntington Beach State Park features aquariums, in addition to a birding and an alligator exhibit. Weekly educational sessions are offered on the loggerhead sea turtle, the salt marsh ecosystem, and spineless wonders of the ocean. You can also view wildlife on the periphery of the center at the bird feeding station and pollinator garden. Visitors are welcome daily between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The park maintains a full calendar of events through the summer months. Activities include coastal kayaking, salt marsh seining, and the ancient art of fish printing. Before you depart, get your cold treat fix at Spoonbills Ice Cream.
Each September, the park hosts the Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival . Browse creations from over 100 vendors during this 3-day event. The festival honors the legacy of Arthur and Anna Hyatt Huntington, celebrated patrons of the arts who built Atalaya as their winter home. Mrs. Huntington was herself a renowned sculptor whose work is on display at the Huntington’s other cherished cultural site, Brookgreen Gardens.
If you want to make a multi-day trip, take advantage of the park’s camping facilities. Huntington Beach State Park can accommodate your camping preferences between its walk-in tent sites and RV hook-ups. Camp comfortably by making use of the park’s tent pads, central water, electricity and wi-fi access.
Our local state parks are an excellent option for an outdoorsy day trip or an afternoon picnic. Keep in mind the variety of educational and immersive activities for a cost-friendly option to entertain young ones.
Looking for additional information to plan your visit? Visit the South Carolina State Parks webpage to learn more.
- Lauren Evanousky, Garden City Realty, Guest Services Vacation Specialist
