Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens

Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens is a 115-acre nature preserve in Little River, about 20 minutes north of central Myrtle Beach, that almost no tourists know about. This free park offers families something the Grand Strand sorely needs: a quiet, beautiful natural space where kids can explore coastal forest and tidal marsh ecosystems without crowds, admission fees, or commercial distractions. The preserve is maintained by Horry County and remains one of the most peaceful family-friendly nature experiences in the entire Myrtle Beach area.

The signature experience is walking through the live oak tunnel — a section of trail where ancient live oak trees arch completely over the path, their branches draped in curtains of Spanish moss that sway in the coastal breeze. The effect is genuinely magical, creating a green cathedral of filtered light and soft shadows that makes kids feel like they have stepped into a storybook forest. The live oaks here are estimated to be 200-300 years old, and their massive trunks and spreading canopies are impressive even to children who think they are too old to be impressed by trees.

The boardwalk section crosses a tidal salt marsh, providing an elevated platform for wildlife observation. At low tide, thousands of fiddler crabs emerge from their burrows, scurrying across the mud in a choreographed spectacle that mesmerizes kids. Great blue herons, snowy egrets, and green herons wade in the shallow water, hunting fish with patient precision.

Ospreys circle overhead. The marsh is alive with movement, and the boardwalk puts families right in the middle of it without getting muddy feet.

The trail system is short enough for young children — the main loop is about a mile — but interesting enough to keep everyone engaged. The path winds through maritime forest, palmetto stands, and open meadows before reaching the marsh boardwalk. Along the way, kids discover unusual fungi growing on fallen logs, butterfly clouds gathering at wildflower patches, and enormous golden orb-weaver spider webs spanning between trees (the spiders are harmless and fascinating from a safe distance).

Practically, the park has a small gravel parking lot and no facilities — no restrooms, no water fountains, no concessions. Bring everything you need. Bug spray is essential, particularly in warm months when the marsh environment produces mosquitoes.

The trails can be muddy after rain. Despite these rustic conditions, the park's natural beauty and solitude make it a favorite among local families who want their kids to experience the Lowcountry's wild side.