If you are vacationing or live here in the Grand Strand and want to relax while enjoying nature, we have a hidden gem just for you.
This botanical paradise of land lies between the Intracoastal and Little River called Vereen Memorial Gardens.
Vereen Memorial Gardens is one of the most scenic historical gardens located in Little River. So, if this is on your bucket list, I wouldn’t wait to visit and breathe in the natural wonders of blossoming flora, wetlands, and wildlife that the gardens have to offer.
In this article, you will read about the history of the gardens, who maintains this maritime forest, who is buried here, and a strange little tradition that most people don’t know about.
History of Vereen Memorial Gardens
The 115 acres of land previously owned by Mr. Jackson A. Vereen was one of the first families to settle in the area. A large part of the gardens remains of what was once a plantation. When you come to the entrance a 1/4 mile off to the right is the Historic Vereen Cemetary dating back to the Revolutionary War, and the remains of the garden.
Several members are currently buried in the historic cemetery such as Joseph Jeremiah Vereen the son of one of the founders, you can see the family tree on the website.
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Later it was deeded to the Horry County Historic Preservation Commission for taking care of the park. In 1985, the historic commission dissolved and the park became under the supervision of the Horry County, Board of Architectural Review. Later VMHG became a state wildlife sanctuary and a historic landmark.
Vereen Gardens is known as a maritime forest which is an ocean coastal wooded area that acts as a barrier between the water and the land. Trails and boardwalks wind through the salty marsh so onlookers can take a peek at the wildlife and blossoming flowers.
Vereen Memorial Gardens- habitat for birds and wildlife.
Once you see the entrance you can feel the tranquility and peacefulness of the forest. You will pass a cemetery on the right and several trails off to the left. Parking is not an issue with several lots available for the people that visit. Mostly the people are off hiking, walking, or fishing and just enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
The wooded areas are set right on the Intracoastal waterfront, with a pier. They have signs for the animal habitats and birds that have made this place their home- great for bird watching. They have the Brown Pelican, which we saw two in the water, Egrets, Blue Herons.
There are 4 miles of walking trails that loop around the park, wooden bridges that extend over the salty wetlands, and islands that are actually great for fishing. They have a gazebo that you can see the pristine Intracoastal. A variety of wildflowers cover the forest floor and along the sandy wet trails.
Intracoastal Waterway
Another reason why people flock here is the Intracoastal Waterway. Crossing over the salt marsh you come to a wooded area where the trails start and to the left is an opening for a little beach. The hint of sparkling blue that you will see when you enter the clearing is the Intracoastal waterway. Head on down to see the boats go by and people fishing off the foaming shoreline.
It’s so peaceful and isolated here and probably one of the few close-up views where you can actually walk to the intrecostal waterway and dip your toes in. In Vereen Gardens you feel like you have the whole place to yourself. They have low-hanging trees that kids sit on the limbs under the shade or sun themselves on the beach, maybe even catch a fish!
Check out this post if you like to fish off the piers in Myrtle Beach
Wishing Tree in Vereen Memorial Gardens
I know that most people have heard of a wishing well but did you ever hear of a wishing oyster tree? Well, Vereen gardens has one that is midway into the hiking trails along the banks of the waterway. Walking down to a narrow beach you will see hundreds of old oyster shells scattered about the briny shoreline.
Now, there is a tradition that people who visit the gardens can pick up an oyster and hang one from a huge low limb tree with oysters. Some of the oysters have been there for years, or so it’s been said, as they are barely hanging on with old rope or thin ties. The best part is you make a wish after finding an oyster to hang from one of the branches.
Sounds like a fun tradition, but if you believe in wishes I bet you’ll feel a lot better leaving the park. Knowing that it just might come true!
Kathy T.
Kathy Tonery
Kathy publishes a community-based blog about the Myrtle Beach area. Focusing on new businesses and helping others by getting involved in community projects for the needy (including homeless pets). She also writes about unique destinations, trending places, and new job opportunities.