Discover the best campgrounds near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina with a private bathroom

Nestled into the impressive 60-mile-long stretch of uninterrupted beach known as the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is a popular spot for sunbathers, beachcombers, and watersport enthusiasts. Enjoy paddleboarding, jet skiing, or parasailing in the Atlantic Ocean with cool sea breezes. Or kayak through nearby waterways next to camping resorts. Families love the waterparks and amusement parks in the area, and golfers adore teeing off at the many world-class golf courses. Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park offer convenient camping options close to town, while Francis Marion National Forest takes hunters and campers deep into wooded marshlands.

Where to go

Myrtle Beach State Park

Myrtle Beach State Park is located right in town, offering a family-friendly campground with both RV and tent campsites. While not quite oceanfront, Myrtle Beach Campground is minutes from the beach. Follow Sculptured Oak Nature Trail and Yaupon Nature Trail to look for loggerhead sea turtles before returning to wifi-connected campsites with access to washrooms, bathhouses, and laundry facilities. Campers can also try crabbing or fishing for flounder, Spanish mackerel, and whiting using fishing rods available for rent from the pier gift shop.

Huntington Beach State Park

About 20 miles south of Myrtle Beach along Long Bay, Huntington Beach State Park offers surf fishing, boating, and birding opportunities. Campers also get the chance to swim in the Atlantic Ocean next to a secluded beach. For wildlife viewing, including alligators, explore the many boardwalks that extend into the freshwater lagoon and salt marsh. For a taste of history, visit Atalaya Castle, a masonry structure built in the 1930s without drawn plans. Campers will find beachfront camping opportunities at Huntington Beach State Park, including pet-friendly RV campsites with electricity, water, and sewer hookups. There is also complimentary wifi throughout the campground.

Francis Marion National Forest

For a camping experience near Myrtle Beach that’s more forested, consider dispersed, primitive camping at Francis Marion National Forest. Stretching over 250,000 acres, the forest spans diverse ecosystems with unique opportunities to view and hunt local wildlife. Hiking trails are relatively flat, but be prepared for swampy areas with ankle-deep water—especially in the eastern section of the park after spring and summer rains. Elmwood Recreation Area is popular during deer and turkey hunting seasons. And Buck Hall Recreation Area offers easy access to Bulls Bay for excellent shrimp baiting.

When to go

Summer is the most popular time of year for vacation rentals and camping in RVs around Myrtle Beach. Loads of sunshine and soaring temperatures are terrific for beach activities, swimming in the ocean, watersports, and mini-golf. Bugs are also at their peak during warm summer months. For fewer mosquitoes and thinning crowds, fall is a great option for camping in the area. The weather is cooler and less humid, plus it’s the perfect time of year to watch migratory birds and enjoy fall foliage.