Ocean Lakes Family Campground Review + Our 14 Favorite Things to Do in Myrtle Beach

What this episode covers

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?