Myrtle Beach Camping Cost: What You Really Pay for Campsites and Free Spots

When people ask about Myrtle Beach camping cost, the total price of staying overnight in a campsite near the South Carolina coast, they’re usually thinking about the big resorts with pools and mini-golf. But the real story is more complicated. Myrtle Beach campsites, ranging from basic gravel pads to luxury RV resorts with cable and Wi-Fi can run from $30 a night to over $150. And if you know where to look, you can camp for free—just not right on the beach.

Most people don’t realize that free camping Myrtle Beach, legal overnight parking outside of designated campgrounds is limited. You won’t find Walmart boondocking like in other states—most parking lots in Myrtle Beach ban overnight stays. But there are hidden spots: state forest edges, some rest areas, and a few quiet county roads where enforcement is loose. Still, you’re taking a risk. The real value comes from knowing the difference between a $40 site with no water hookups and a $120 site with showers, laundry, and dog parks. RV camping South Carolina, the broader practice of traveling and staying in motorhomes across the state often means choosing between convenience and budget. Summer is peak season, and prices jump fast. Book early, or you’ll pay more for the last available spot.

What most travelers miss is how much the camping fees Myrtle Beach, the charges imposed by private and public campgrounds for overnight stays include beyond the base rate. Some places charge extra for electricity, pets, or even using the pool. Others tack on cleaning fees if you don’t leave the site spotless. And don’t forget taxes—South Carolina adds nearly 8% to every campsite bill. That $60 site? It’s really $65 before you even turn on the lights. The best way to save isn’t to skip the campground—it’s to know exactly what you’re paying for. Whether you’re rolling in with a full-size motorhome or a tiny campervan, the right spot can make or break your trip. Below, you’ll find real breakdowns of what people actually pay, where the hidden costs hide, and how to avoid overpaying for a place that doesn’t deliver.