Carolina Forest, South Carolina, is a rapidly growing, unincorporated community located just west of Myrtle Beach in Horry County. Known for its family-friendly environment and convenient access to the beaches, this area has become one of the most popular places to live in the Grand Strand region. Here are some highlights:

Location & Accessibility

• Carolina Forest is situated along Highway 501, offering easy access to Myrtle Beach (about 10–15 minutes away) and other nearby attractions along the South Carolina coast.

• It is close to major highways, such as Highway 31 and Highway 17, which connect to Charleston and other nearby cities.

Housing & Neighborhoods

• The area has a mix of residential developments, from single-family homes and townhouses to luxury communities and retirement residences.

• Some well-known neighborhoods include The Farm, Plantation Lakes, Berkshire Forest, and Waterbridge. Many of these communities feature amenities like pools, walking trails, lakes, and clubhouses.

Education

• Carolina Forest is served by the Horry County School District, which has several well-regarded schools within or near the community, including Carolina Forest Elementary, Ocean Bay Middle School, and Carolina Forest High School.

• There are also a few private schools and preschools in the area, as well as nearby higher education institutions like Coastal Carolina University in Conway.

Shopping & Dining

• Residents have access to various shopping centers, including the Tanger Outlets, Carolina Forest Plaza, and Village Shops, with popular retail stores, grocery chains, and boutique shops.

• Dining options range from national chains to local restaurants, featuring a variety of cuisines.

Recreation & Parks

• Carolina Forest has numerous parks and recreational areas, like Carolina Forest Recreation Center and the Horry County Bike and Run Park, also known as "The Hulk," which has trails for biking, running, and walking.

• The area is close to the Intracoastal Waterway and a short drive to the Atlantic Ocean, making it ideal for water-based activities, including boating, fishing, and paddleboarding.

Community & Events

• The community has an active atmosphere with local events, festivals, and community gatherings.

• Residents enjoy various clubs, fitness programs, and activities for families, contributing to a sense of community.

Growth & Development

• Carolina Forest has seen significant development in recent years, with new residential and commercial projects. This growth has made it a vibrant, desirable place to live in the Myrtle Beach area.

Whether you’re looking for a place to raise a family, retire, or simply enjoy the coastal lifestyle, Carolina Forest offers a balanced mix of convenience, amenities, and natural beauty.

Carolina Forest is a rapidly developing area in Horry County, South Carolina, just outside of Myrtle Beach. Historically, the land that makes up Carolina Forest was primarily forested and rural, largely untouched by major development until the late 20th century. Here’s a look at the key points in its history:

Early Ownership and Timber Operations

• 1950s-1970s: Much of the land in what is now Carolina Forest was owned by International Paper, which acquired it in the 1950s. The area was part of the company's larger landholdings in Horry County, which they used for timber production.

• Forested and Uninhabited Land: For decades, this area remained largely undeveloped and was covered by pine forests used for timber.

Transfer and Development Plans

• 1990s: In the early 1990s, International Paper began planning to transform the area into a large, mixed-use community, as the Grand Strand region started attracting more development interest due to its proximity to Myrtle Beach.

• 1994 Land Transfer: In 1994, Horry County approved the sale of 9,000 acres from International Paper, a deal that officially launched Carolina Forest as a planned community. The county and International Paper collaborated to plan zoning for residential, commercial, educational, and recreational areas.

Initial Development and Infrastructure

• Late 1990s to Early 2000s: Development began in earnest, with the construction of initial neighborhoods, schools, and other infrastructure. Early subdivisions included areas like The Farm, Waterford Plantation, and Avalon.

• Growth of Amenities: As new residents moved in, Carolina Forest saw the addition of commercial centers, schools, parks, and medical facilities. The construction of Carolina Forest Boulevard and the extension of River Oaks Drive helped connect the area, improving access and boosting growth.

Residential and Commercial Expansion

• 2000s to 2010s: The area saw explosive growth, driven by its location near Myrtle Beach and the quality of its schools and amenities. Subdivisions and communities continued to pop up, including Plantation Lakes, Berkshire Forest, and Indigo Bay.

• Continued Infrastructure Development: In response to rapid population growth, the county worked on expanding road networks, adding schools, and enhancing services. Carolina Forest High School opened in 1997, followed by other schools, helping establish the area as a family-friendly community.

Modern-Day Carolina Forest

• Present Day: Carolina Forest is now one of the fastest-growing areas in Horry County, with a diverse population and a mix of residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational options. The area has largely retained its planned-community feel, with each neighborhood offering unique amenities while maintaining a cohesive community character.

Carolina Forest is often viewed as a suburban, family-friendly alternative to the busier, tourism-driven Myrtle Beach, while still being close enough for residents to enjoy the coast. The area continues to grow, attracting both families and retirees seeking a vibrant, convenient, and well-planned community near the coast.