Tent campsites near North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina are available within a 60-mile radius from the city center. The coastal region features sandy soil conditions and warm temperatures during camping season, with summer highs typically reaching 85-90°F. Several camping areas offer water proximity for paddling and fishing with varying levels of amenities at primitive and improved sites.
What to do
Water adventures at River Island Adventures: Campers can rent kayaks with a discount when staying at the campsite. The outfitter also offers paddleboarding, tubing, and night paddles with specialty s'mores. As one visitor noted, "This is a water adventure company that also has camping on the property. You can reserve a camp spot without signing up for any river activities, but camping does give you a little discount on activities if you do decide to rent a kayak or anything."
Swimming at Fort Fisher: Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area provides beach access directly across from the campground. The beach features distinctive rock formations scattered throughout the landscape. According to a camper, "Great stay. Wife, Three Kids, and I really enjoyed it. Full hook ups. Bath house. MWR/famcamp store with everything you need... Beach access across the street."
Fishing opportunities: Primitive tent sites at several parks offer fishing access. The Lumber River is a popular spot for anglers seeking a quieter experience. Campers should bring their own gear as rental options are limited at most natural areas.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground offers well-separated tent sites for those seeking seclusion. One reviewer appreciated that "sites 2-5 are a quarter mile plus from the parking area" and that "the sites are all a far distance from one another so there's no chance of bothering one another at night."
Night sky viewing: Princess Ann — Lumber River State Park provides excellent stargazing opportunities away from city light pollution. A camper mentioned, "You can see tons of stars here at night, it is amazing! It's lovely to sit by the water and look at the night sky."
Staff helpfulness: Multiple campgrounds receive positive reviews for their staff interactions. At River Island Adventures, a camper stated, "Very friendly staff as well!" while another noted, "The workers were a joy to be around and very attentive. Our campsite was amazing."
What you should know
Military-only restrictions: Some waterfront camping options have usage limitations. Fort Fisher requires military credentials for entry, as one reviewer clarified: "Important to note, this location is only open to military members and their family members. So if you qualify, it's a good location for beach activities."
Distance to facilities: Many tent sites require walking to reach bathrooms. Lake Waccamaw campers should be prepared for longer walks, as one reviewer warned: "The only warning I'd give is you are permitted to drive to your campsite to set up, but sites 2-5 are a quarter mile plus from the parking area... especially sites 4 and 5 (we were in 4) are very far from the bathroom. Don't forget anything in the car."
Wildlife noise: Cypress Ranch Glamping and other natural areas feature active wildlife, particularly at night. At Princess Ann, one camper advised: "If you are a light sleeper you may want to consider ear plugs. It's lovely, but the owls do get kind of rowdy at points making a racket."
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: Lake Waccamaw offers family-friendly swimming with gradual depth. According to a recent visitor, "The lake is beautifully kept and clean. Very shallow. You can walk out a good 300 meters. We kayaked and fished while we were here."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds are near attractions suitable for children. Fort Fisher campers noted proximity to the aquarium: "Less than a mile from the Aquarium and fort fisher civil war museum."
Team activities: River Island Adventures offers structured group activities for families. As one visitor described: "They offer kayaking, paddleboarding, tubing, camping, glamping, night paddles with 6 different kinds of smores!! And the super cool Escape River Island which is 10 challenges like survivor or amazing race or escape room or something. Great team building!!!"
Tips from RVers
Hook-up configurations: At Fort Fisher, RVers note unusual site layouts. One camper observed: "The sites themselves are extremely long, but for some reason the hook-ups are all near the front of the site, so you can't take advantage of the length."
Parking and check-in logistics: For smoother arrival, consider site placement before check-in. A Fort Fisher visitor recommended: "The check-in office is further down towards the river with no real place to turn-around, so I recommend calling ahead to know your site, unhook, then drive to check-in."
Alternate camping styles: Whispering Pines Nudist Resort offers both tent and RV camping with hookups for those seeking a clothing-optional environment. A visitor commented on the atmosphere: "Nice and private. Very clean and everyone is very friendly."
