During our first snowbird exodus from Canada, we discovered these 3 great winter snowbird parks in South Carolina. Here’s why you should consider them for a foot-loose and fancy-free winter escape.
Why Snowbird in South Carolina?
You might be asking, “How is it that South Carolina is just far enough south and also, just far enough north for the perfect snowbird adventure?” Let me tell you.
Well, “The Palmetto State” never gets ice or snow drifts. The only drifts you’ll see are the elegant veils of Spanish moss drifting from live oak trees. Or the drifts of white sand that change with the winds and the tide.
Isn’t South Carolina RVing Too Cold in Winter?
You’ll be surprised to learn that November and December are the driest months of the year in South Carolina. Daytime temperatures in November and December hover between 60 – 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This predictably warm weather is a definite draw.
South Carolina winter temperatures averages:
- January 58
- February 62
- March 68
- April 75
Oh the joy we felt as Buffalo and Ontario were hit with record snowfalls in November, and we were wearing sandals and a light jacket down south! It was like seeing a double rainbow after a stormy day.
You’ll Love Southern Charm and Hospitality
As we descended the Appalachian Mountains, our senses ignited with the old fashion feel of the Carolina lowlands. This area is as flat as a pancake. You can hit a golf ball in one of the over 90 championship courses and it will roll forever.
If you’re a history bluff, RVing in South Carolina provides a plethora of rich heritage and history to explore. And if you like to eat, and who doesn’t, the killer bbq and seafood restaurants are sure to satisfy. If you’re an artsy kind-of-person there are over 600 fine art events to placate the soul.
Experience South Carolina’s Beautiful Flora and Fauna
The rich plant and animal life are like breaths of fresh air as we observed the importance of ecology to South Carolina. I was impressed with the natural grasses used to enhance the landscape. Wispy muhly grass with its mauve plumes and tall pampas grass wave in the breeze in many places. The stately palm trees immediately reinforce that old adage ‘Dorothy you’re not in Kansas anymore.’
Strolling along the beach is an opportunity to identify a variety of tidal critters. You’ll spot wee sand pipers skittering across the sand. White regal egrets, striped hermit crab, jellyfish and cloudy periwinkles also greet you.
Our Top 3 South Carolina Snowbird RV Resorts
My husband Paul planned well ahead to find the best winter snowbird parks in South Carolina for us. He wanted to ensure we could secure pull-through sites at Carolina Pines near Conway, Ocean Lakes on Myrtle Beach, and Lake Jasper at Hardeeville (near the Georgia border). Trip Wizard in RV Life helped to plan, navigate, and execute the right plan for us.
Carolina Pines RV Resort
Carolina Pines is a new Sun Outdoors Community. Located near the historic town of Conway, Carolina Pines is only 30 minutes to Myrtle Beach.
We loved the luxurious upscale RVing with bountiful amenities. Ample space between sites and extra large parking pads are extra nice features. Friends without RVs can stay in the park’s tiny houses (cabins) rentals. They even have lofts and rooftop sundecks.
We met several seniors who live in the RV park permanently. And why not? They enjoy five pools, lazy river, water park, mini-golf, gym, indoor heated pool and hot tub. The resort’s bistro and snack bar, bowling alley, arcade and much more are exceptional amenities. All of the grounds are clean and manicured too.
- Winter rates start at $733.00 (USD) as of 2022. Military discounts apply.
- The sooner you book, the better the rate.
Ocean Lakes Family Campground
Located at the south end of Myrtle Beach, this family-owned campground has nearly a mile of oceanfront property on 310 acres. The best part of RVing here is of course, the beach. There’s just something mesmerizing about the sun, the surf, the sand, and the never-ending-story of the waves. Whether you venture onto the beach after low or high tide, with your morning coffee or après dinner drink, with your pet or mate, there’s endless opportunities for renewal, repair and restoration of the body, mind and spirit.
Choose one of 859 pull-thru campsites. If you have guests without RVs, consider reserving one of 3,000 beach house locations. Yes, this is a huge campground. But it has an extensive canopy of trees surrounding several mini-lakes, making it feel like an old-time community.
Ocean Lakes Family Campground RV resort amenities include pools, mini-golf, beach volleyball, indoor heated pool, grocery store and snack bar. It’s like a city within a city as it has its own firetruck, garbage disposal, mail service, golf cart rentals, RV specialty shop and real estate office. You’re also a short drive from restaurants, shopping, and attractions in Myrtle Beach. The nearby historic city of Charleston is a worthwhile venture.
Ocean Lakes is clearly one of the best South Carolina snowbird RV resorts. It received a “2022 Mega Park of the Year” award due to its exceptional guest experiences.
- Winter Rates are based on proximity to the beach
- Nightly rates start at $42.00 (USD)
- Senior discounts apply.
Lake Jasper RV Village
With only 100 sites, this park’s charm is quiet solitude, close to nature. But it’s also a great location. Stay near the historic port cities of Charleston and Savannah and only a stone’s throw from Hilton Head.
The heated pool closes the end of November but opportunities for other recreation abound. Try canoeing, kayaking, hiking and fishing. One of our favorite activities is biking the flat paved loop that passes by parks and wetlands. It’s the perfect setting for photography buffs, too.
- A 3-month rate begins at $940.00 (USD)
- Military Veteran, Camping Clubs, and AAA discounts apply.
See You in South Carolina, Snowbird RV Friends!
Have I convinced you to consider becoming a South Carolina RV snowbird? Remember, this destination is far enough south to escape the cold and snow. And far enough north that November to April is off-season and easier on your pocketbook. Sweet Caroline … good times never seemed so good at these South Carolina snowbird RV parks!
