Myrtle Beach has long been a favorite destination for RVers, offering a mix of beachfront camping, family-friendly entertainment, and outdoor recreation. In this week’s episode of The RV Atlas, we dive into a review of Ocean Lakes Family Campground, one of the largest and most well-known campgrounds on the East Coast. Then, we share our top things to do in Myrtle Beach, from state parks to local dining and fun attractions. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or a relaxing escape, this guide will help you make the most of your Myrtle Beach RV trip.

Thanks to Bill Sferrazza for the photos of Ocean Lakes Family Campground that appear in this post.

Ocean Lakes Family Campground Review

A Campground with History

Ocean Lakes Family Campground opened in 1971 with just 30 RV sites and one bathhouse. Over the decades, it has expanded significantly and now features 859 RV sites and nearly 2,600 land-lease homes. This transformation has turned Ocean Lakes into a self-contained resort, offering a mix of vacation rentals, full-hookup RV sites, and beachfront access.

Location and Accessibility

Located on South Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach, Ocean Lakes is the southernmost of the city’s mega-campgrounds. It’s just north of Murrells Inlet and conveniently positioned between the bustling boardwalk area of Myrtle Beach and the quieter state parks to the south. This prime location makes it easy to explore both lively attractions and serene natural spaces.

Campsite Options and Pricing

Ocean Lakes offers pull-through RV sites, making it easy for large rigs to maneuver. Most sites near the beach feature concrete pads, while those farther inland provide a mix of shaded, grass-covered spots.

Pricing varies throughout the year:

• January–April & November–December: $48–$53 per night
• April–May & September: $70–$75 per night
• June–August (Peak Season): $106–$111 per night

For a beachfront location with resort-level amenities, these rates are reasonable compared to other high-demand oceanfront camping destinations.

Seasonal Atmosphere: What to Expect

Ocean Lakes has distinct seasonal vibes, and knowing what to expect can help you plan accordingly:

• Summer: Packed with families, golf carts everywhere, and a high-energy, social environment.
• Spring Break & Shoulder Seasons: Busy, but slightly less crowded.
• Fall: A quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with retirees and seasonal campers.
• Halloween Weekends: A festive time with decorated campsites and campground-wide trick-or-treating.

Amenities and Activities

Ocean Lakes is a small city in itself, providing nearly everything you need for a full vacation without leaving the property:

• Waterpark & Pools: Includes a lazy river, multiple pools, splash zones, and straight-drop water slides.
• On-Site Dining: Casual eateries offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and ice cream.
• Grocery Store & RV Services: A full-service store and RV repair shop.
• Golf Cart Rentals: A must-have for getting around this massive resort.
• Game Room & Recreation Center: A fun indoor space for kids and families.
• Beachfront Access: Walk directly onto the sand from your campsite.

Potential Downsides

• Busy Summer Scene: If you prefer quiet, avoid June–August.
• Golf Cart Traffic: The sheer number of golf carts can be overwhelming.
• Limited Privacy: Sites are medium-sized but close together.

Overall, Ocean Lakes Family Campground delivers an exceptional beachfront camping experience, especially for those who love a social, amenity-rich campground.

Looking for other great camping options in and around Myrtle Beach? Please click here for the rest of our favorites!

Our 14 Favorite Things to Do in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach offers something for every kind of traveler, from outdoor enthusiasts to foodies and entertainment lovers. Here are our top 12 things to do in Myrtle Beach:

1. Visit Myrtle Beach State Park

A quieter alternative to the busier beaches, Myrtle Beach State Park features hiking trails, a fishing pier, and a beautiful stretch of shoreline perfect for a relaxing day in nature.

2. Explore Huntington Beach State Park

Located south of Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach State Park is a top-tier camping and day-trip destination with scenic marshland trails, birdwatching, and the historic Atalaya Castle.

3. Enjoy Breakfast at Johnny D’s Waffle House

A local favorite, Johnny D’s is a must for a hearty breakfast, serving decadent waffles, creative skillets, and delicious coffee.

4. Play Mini Golf

Myrtle Beach is the mini golf capital of the world, with countless courses featuring creative themes and fun obstacles.

5. Catch a Myrtle Beach Pelicans Game

Baseball fans can enjoy a fun and affordable night out watching the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, the city’s minor league team.

6. Go Kayaking with Black River Outdoors

Guided kayaking tours at Huntington Beach State Park or through scenic salt marshes offer a peaceful way to explore the region’s natural beauty.

7. Ride on the SkyWheel

Get panoramic views of the coastline on the SkyWheel, Myrtle Beach’s 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel.

9. Explore Murrells Inlet MarshWalk

A scenic boardwalk lined with waterfront dining, live music, and fresh seafood, perfect for an evening out. Here you’ll find higher end dining options like the Wicked Tuna, or more casual restaurants like Drunken Jack’s. 

10. Visit Brookgreen Gardens

A stunning botanical garden and sculpture park, ideal for a peaceful afternoon. The children’s garden and educational programming make this a fun destination for all ages. 

11. Experience Legends in Concert

This live tribute show features incredible performances of iconic musicians, from Elvis to Whitney Houston. Worth the price of admission.

12. Tour Birds of Prey and Bull Island Ferry

For a unique wildlife experience, visit the Center for Birds of Prey or take a ferry to Bull Island for a day of hiking and beachcombing.

Plan Your Own Myrtle Beach RV Trip

In our opinion, Myrtle Beach offers an unbeatable mix of family fun, outdoor adventure, and beachfront relaxation. Whether you stay at a bustling resort like Ocean Lakes or a tranquil state park, you can craft an RV trip that perfectly suits your tastes.

Have you camped in Myrtle Beach before? Join the conversation in The RV Atlas Facebook Group and share your favorite campgrounds and activities! And if you want to hear more details about our experience, listen to the full episode of The RV Atlas Podcast for an in-depth discussion.