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Discover the Outdoors: Myrtle Beach's Best Parks and Trails for Families
Looking for ways to get the kids off screens and into nature? Whether you're a local or visiting the Grand Strand, there are plenty of family-friendly parks and nature trails in the Myrtle Beach area that are perfect for outdoor fun, exploration, and memory-making.
From scenic boardwalks and coastal preserves to shaded playgrounds and wildlife trails, the Grand Strand is filled with free (or affordable) places where families can stay active, breathe fresh air, and reconnect with nature.
Let’s explore the best parks and nature trails near Myrtle Beach that are ideal for families of all ages.
1. Myrtle Beach State Park
📍 4401 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC
Why families love it:
This oceanfront state park is a local treasure. With its beautiful beach access, shaded picnic areas, and nature trails through maritime forest, it’s the perfect mix of beach day and nature retreat.
Features:
Playground and picnic shelters
Fishing pier and nature center
Easy walking trails under shady trees
Educational programs and ranger-led activities
Best for: A full-day outing with beach access and plenty of shaded relaxation.
2. Savannah’s Playground (The Market Common)
📍 1000 Crabtree Ln, Myrtle Beach, SC
Why families love it:
This award-winning inclusive playground is one of the best in the Southeast. Designed for children of all abilities, it features state-of-the-art equipment, splash pads, and sensory-friendly structures.
Features:
Free, fully accessible play zones
Zip lines, swings, and climbing walls
Nearby walking trails and lakes
Restaurants and coffee shops within walking distance
Best for: A half-day play outing with younger kids and a stop for lunch or snacks.
3. Huntington Beach State Park (Murrells Inlet)
📍 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC
Why families love it:
Home to some of the best birdwatching and wildlife in the state, this park combines education and fun. Walk along marsh boardwalks, explore the historic Atalaya Castle, or hike the easy Sandpiper Trail.
Features:
Wildlife viewing (alligators, turtles, birds)
Accessible beach, restrooms, and visitor center
Nature trails and ranger-led programs
Historic Spanish-style castle on site
Best for: Outdoor exploration and introducing kids to wildlife and conservation.
4. Brookgreen Gardens Lowcountry Trail
📍 1931 Brookgreen Garden Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC
Why families love it:
Brookgreen is more than just a botanical garden — it’s a place where nature, history, and art collide. The Lowcountry Trail offers easy walking paths, shady oak trees, and interactive exhibits about the area's plantation history.
Features:
Stroller-friendly paths
Free-roaming sculptures and fountains
On-site zoo and butterfly house
Educational signage for older children
Best for: Families with kids of varying ages looking for nature, art, and education in one spot.
5. Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens (Little River)
📍 2250 SC-179, Little River, SC
Why families love it:
A peaceful, lesser-known escape on the Intracoastal Waterway. Families love the wooden boardwalks through salt marshes, scenic lookouts, and shady wooded trails.
Features:
Easy nature trails and water views
Historic markers and botanical gardens
Free admission
Dog-friendly
Best for: A quiet afternoon walk with strollers or a family picnic by the water.
6. McLean Park (North Myrtle Beach)
📍 93 Oak Dr, North Myrtle Beach, SC
Why families love it:
Tucked away in a residential area, McLean Park is a local favorite. Its tranquil pond, clean playgrounds, and wide open spaces make it a perfect destination for younger families.
Features:
Two playgrounds and walking trails
Gazebo and picnic shelters
Small lake with ducks and turtles
Seasonal movies and events in the park
Best for: Low-key weekend afternoons with toddlers and young children.
7. Waccamaw Neck Bikeway & Trails
📍 Stretching through Murrells Inlet & Pawleys Island
Why families love it:
For active families who love biking or long walks, the Waccamaw Neck Trail is ideal. It’s part of the East Coast Greenway and offers paved, shaded paths that run parallel to U.S. 17.
Features:
Safe, bike- and stroller-friendly trail
Access to shops, restaurants, and parks along the way
Scenic forest and marsh views
Great for teens and older kids
Best for: Biking adventures or long family walks in nature.
8. South Strand Recreation Center Trails (Burgess Area)
📍 9650 Scipio Ln, Myrtle Beach, SC
Why families love it:
Located near Surfside Beach, this area features a blend of walking trails, sports fields, and a community playground. It's often less crowded than tourist areas.
Features:
Nature trail loop with benches and birdhouses
Open play fields and shaded picnic areas
Basketball courts and walking track
Nearby library and community events
Best for: Local families who want easy access to play and trails close to home.
Tips for Visiting Grand Strand Parks with Kids
✅ Bring Bug Spray – Mosquitoes and gnats can be active in shaded or marshy areas
✅ Pack Snacks & Water – Not all parks have vending machines or concessions
✅ Wear Sunscreen – Even in shaded areas, the Carolina sun is strong
✅ Use Strollers or Carriers – Most trails are easy, but a carrier is helpful for toddlers
✅ Check for Events – Some parks host free family events, nature walks, or outdoor movies
Final Thoughts: Explore the Grand Strand One Trail at a Time
Whether you're chasing crabs at Myrtle Beach State Park or biking beneath oaks on the Waccamaw Trail, the Grand Strand is packed with family-friendly outdoor adventures. These parks and nature trails offer something for everyone — whether you want action, education, or just a little peace and quiet.
📍 Local tip: Pick a new park every weekend and start a family tradition exploring the Grand Strand's natural side.
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