What Does It Cost to Camp at Myrtle Beach? Full 2025 Price Guide

Planning a beach trip to Myrtle Beach but wondering how much it’ll actually cost to sleep under the stars-or in an RV-right next to the ocean? You’re not alone. Thousands of families and solo travelers show up every year hoping for sun, sand, and a good night’s sleep without getting hit with surprise fees. The truth? Camping at Myrtle Beach isn’t one price. It varies by season, site type, and even what time of day you show up. Here’s exactly what you’ll pay in 2025, broken down by campsite type, hidden costs, and how to save money.

Basic Tent Sites: $25 to $55 per Night

If you’re pitching a tent, you’re looking at the cheapest entry point. Most public and private beach campgrounds offer basic tent sites with access to restrooms, showers, and sometimes a picnic table. In the off-season-think November through February-you can snag a spot for as low as $25 a night. Places like Myrtle Beach State Park and North Myrtle Beach Campground keep rates low when demand drops.

But come March, things shift. Spring breakers and early-season travelers push prices up. By April, expect to pay $40-$55 a night for a standard tent site. Weekends cost more, especially if you’re trying to book a spot near the dunes or ocean view. Weekdays? You might get a 15-20% discount if you call ahead and ask.

RV Sites: $40 to $90 per Night

RV camping is huge in Myrtle Beach. Nearly 60% of campers here bring a rig. Sites range from basic pull-throughs to full-hookup spots with water, sewer, and 50-amp power. In the low season, you’ll find basic RV sites starting at $40. But if you want full hookups with cable TV and Wi-Fi, prices jump to $65-$80.

Want a site right on the beachfront? That’s $85-$90 a night. These spots are limited and book up fast. Places like Oceanfront RV Resort and Grand Strand RV Resort charge premium rates because you can step out of your rig, cross the boardwalk, and be on the sand in under 2 minutes. No other campground in the area offers that convenience.

Pro tip: Some parks offer weekly rates. If you’re staying 7+ nights, ask. You can save 10-25% by paying upfront for a week. For example, a $75/night site might drop to $500 for seven nights.

Group and Family Sites: $60 to $110 per Night

Planning a family reunion or a big group trip? Most campgrounds offer larger sites that can fit multiple tents, a big RV, and even a second vehicle. These are called group sites or family sites. They’re usually double the size of a regular spot and come with extra picnic tables, fire rings, and sometimes even a dedicated grilling area.

Prices start at $60 in the off-season and go up to $110 during peak summer months (late June to mid-August). Myrtle Beach State Park has 12 group sites that can handle up to 20 people. You’ll pay $95 a night in July, but if you book early, you can lock in a rate before the May price hike.

Hidden Fees You Can’t Ignore

Here’s where most people get tripped up. The nightly rate isn’t the whole story. Most campgrounds add fees you won’t see until checkout.

• Utility fees: Even if your site says “full hookups,” some parks charge $5-$10 extra per night for water and sewer use. Check the fine print.
• Extra vehicle fees: One car is usually included. A second vehicle? That’s $10-$15 extra per night. If you’re bringing a trailer or jet ski, expect another $10-$20.
• Resort fees: Private resorts like Seabrook Island Resort charge $12-$20 per night as a “resort fee” for Wi-Fi, pool access, and shuttle service. It’s not optional.
• Cancellation fees: If you cancel less than 72 hours before arrival, most places charge 50% of your first night. Some charge 100% during holidays.

Always ask: “Is there a daily resort fee or extra vehicle charge?” Don’t assume it’s included.

When Is the Cheapest Time to Camp?

Timing matters more than location. The cheapest windows are:

• November 1-December 15: Cold but quiet. Most sites are $25-$40. Water parks and pools are closed, but the beach is still walkable.
• January 1-February 28: Lowest rates of the year. Some places drop to $20 for tent sites. You’ll need a jacket, but you’ll have the beach mostly to yourself.
• September 1-October 15: Post-summer slump. Temperatures are still warm, crowds are gone, and prices are 30-40% lower than July. Hurricane season is a risk, but most storms pass without hitting the coast.

Summer (late June to mid-August) is the most expensive. You’re paying for the heat, the crowds, and the fact that everyone else wants the same thing you do.

How to Save Money on Myrtle Beach Camping

Here’s how real campers cut costs without sacrificing the experience:

• Book early, but not too early: Most campgrounds open reservations 6-12 months ahead. But prices don’t drop until 30-60 days before arrival. Wait until then to book if you’re flexible.
• Use state park passes: South Carolina State Parks offers an annual pass for $50. It covers entry to Myrtle Beach State Park and 46 other parks. If you’re camping more than twice a year, it pays for itself.
• Go midweek: Sunday-Thursday nights are 15-30% cheaper than Friday-Saturday. Even in peak season, you’ll find better deals.
• Look for last-minute deals: Apps like Recreation.gov and Hipcamp show cancellations. If someone cancels 24 hours out, you can grab a $30 tent site at 8 p.m. the night before.
• Bring your own gear: Renting a tent, cooler, or grill at the park can add $20-$50 per day. Bring your own.

What About Free Camping?

No, you can’t legally camp on Myrtle Beach’s public beaches. It’s against city ordinance. Tents, fires, and overnight stays are banned on the sand. Some people try to sneak in, but rangers patrol nightly. Fines start at $250 and include towing your vehicle.

There are a few dispersed camping spots outside the city limits-like in the Francis Marion National Forest-but those are 20-30 minutes inland. You won’t be sleeping with the sound of waves. If you want beach access, you’re paying for it.

Top 3 Campgrounds for Value in 2025

Not all Myrtle Beach campgrounds are created equal. Here are the three that consistently deliver the best bang for your buck:

1. Myrtle Beach State Park: $35-$55/night. Beach access via boardwalk, clean restrooms, no resort fees, and free parking for a second vehicle. Only downside: no Wi-Fi.
2. North Myrtle Beach Campground: $40-$70/night. Full hookups, pool, laundry, and a trolley to the boardwalk. Free Wi-Fi and no extra vehicle fees.
3. Grand Strand RV Resort: $65-$85/night. Beachfront, on-site restaurant, and a shuttle to the pier. Best for families who want convenience over savings.

Myrtle Beach State Park wins for pure value. If you’re okay with no Wi-Fi and a short walk to the beach, it’s the smartest pick.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Yes-if you plan right. Camping at Myrtle Beach isn’t cheap, but it’s cheaper than a hotel room. A $50/night RV site beats a $150/night hotel room every time, especially if you’re cooking your own meals. You get space, privacy, and the sound of the ocean waking you up every morning.

Just don’t show up without knowing the rules. Know your site type. Know your fees. Know your dates. Book early. Avoid weekends. And bring a warm blanket-even in summer, nights near the ocean get chilly.