Surfside Beach
Discover a relaxed family-beach atmosphere, the Surfside Beach Pier, local dining, and convenient access to the shoreline just north of Ocean Lakes.
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Surfside Life Stays Area Guide
About Ocean Lakes Family Campground
Discover the history, lifestyle, recreation, and family traditions that have made Ocean Lakes one of the South Strand’s best-known oceanfront vacation communities.
Good to know: Surfside Life Stays manages privately owned vacation homes within Ocean Lakes. Resort amenities, schedules, rules, and fees are controlled by Ocean Lakes and may change.
1971Opened to its first guests
310Oceanfront acres
Nearly 1 MileOf beachfront
Family TraditionGenerations return year after year
A South Strand Tradition
From 30 campsites to a landmark destination
Ocean Lakes began in 1970 when Nelson and Mary Emily Jackson started developing their beachfront property. The campground welcomed its first guests on July 2, 1971, with just 30 campsites and one bathhouse.
Over the decades, the community grew into one of the most recognized oceanfront vacation destinations on the East Coast. Today, Ocean Lakes spans approximately 310 acres, offers nearly a mile of beachfront, and includes hundreds of campsites along with thousands of privately owned annual lease sites.
Did you know?
Many families have returned to Ocean Lakes for generations, creating traditions that extend far beyond a single beach vacation.
The Ocean Lakes Lifestyle
Beach days, golf cart rides, and time together
Ocean Lakes has a personality all its own. Guests can spend the morning by the Atlantic, the afternoon enjoying community recreation, and the evening cruising the neighborhood by golf cart.
Beachfront Living
Enjoy convenient access to nearly one mile of Atlantic coastline for swimming, walking, sunrises, and relaxed family beach days.
Golf Cart Culture
Golf carts are part of the Ocean Lakes experience and a favorite way to explore the community, visit amenities, and enjoy evening rides.
Family Traditions
With activities for multiple generations, Ocean Lakes is especially well suited to family vacations and annual return trips.
Things to Do
Plenty of ways to enjoy every vacation day
Ocean Lakes offers much more than a place to stay. Its recreation areas, seasonal activities, shops, dining options, and special events give guests plenty to explore without leaving the community.
Sandy Harbor Family Fun Center
- Outdoor and indoor pools
- Water park attractions
- Game center and arcade
- Mini golf
- Recreation and activity areas
Convenience Around the Community
- Sandy Mart and Camptown Center
- Food, snacks, and coffee
- Golf cart rentals and services
- Beach access and recreation
- Seasonal entertainment and events
Seasonal Fun
Events that make each visit feel different
Ocean Lakes hosts activities and special events throughout the year. Programming can vary by season, but guests may encounter live entertainment, holiday celebrations, family activities, worship services, and long-running community traditions.
Music & Entertainment
Seasonal DJs, dancing, and family-friendly entertainment add energy to summer evenings and special weekends.
Holiday Traditions
Popular seasonal celebrations may include Easter activities, Halloweekends, and other themed events.
Community Favorites
Signature experiences such as the Polar Bear Plunge help create the traditions returning guests remember.
“From sunrise walks on the beach to evening golf cart rides, Ocean Lakes is a place where vacation memories become family traditions.”
Accessibility
Planning for a comfortable stay
Ocean Lakes provides several accessibility resources to help guests enjoy the community. Available accommodations and procedures may change, so guests should confirm current details directly with Ocean Lakes before arrival.
Beach & Mobility Support
- Beach-access mats in designated areas
- Beach wheelchairs, subject to availability
- Accessible facilities and accommodations
- Golf cart handicap placard procedures
Additional Guest Support
- Resources for hearing-impaired guests
- Considerations for visually impaired guests
- Support for guests with intellectual disabilities
- Staff assistance with current accessibility information
Beyond Ocean Lakes
Explore more of the South Strand
Ocean Lakes places guests within easy reach of some of the South Strand’s most popular beach communities, waterfront destinations, dining districts, and coastal attractions.
Garden City Beach
Explore the Garden City Pier, wide stretches of beach, casual restaurants, water activities, and a laid-back coastal community south of Surfside Beach.
Explore Garden City BeachMurrells Inlet
Experience waterfront dining, live music, boat tours, fresh local seafood, and life on the water along the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk.
Explore Murrells InletPawleys Island
Enjoy a quieter Lowcountry setting known for natural beauty, historic charm, uncrowded beaches, local dining, and a slower coastal pace.
Explore Pawleys IslandMyrtle Beach
Find classic beach attractions, family entertainment, shopping, dining, golf, and some of the Grand Strand’s best-known vacation experiences.
Explore Myrtle BeachPlan Your South Strand Getaway
Ready to experience Ocean Lakes?
Explore available vacation homes and find the right place for your family, group, or next coastal getaway.
Surfside Life Stays is an independent vacation-rental brand and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Ocean Lakes Family Campground. Community amenities, events, policies, and accessibility resources are subject to change. Guests should verify current information directly with Ocean Lakes before arrival.