Connections More: Good Fences #11

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Good Fences #11

Lonely Arbor

At the end of the campground property is an exclusive section belonging to the founder's family. The private Valentine's Day wedding was held at the edge of the woods for a family member. The couple stood in front of the arbor and it was decorated with little red lights, ribbons and red hearts. It now stands alone without the embellishments of the flowers and the bride and groom. No one goes there now.

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The feelings of a happy and busy time remain in this isolated area though the arbor is empty.

History:
What seemed an impossible dream in 1959 became a remarkable accomplishment... Carl and Marion Perry developed a small 125-site campground, Camp Beachwood. Eventually that investment led the Perry’s to open Lakewood Camping Resort, the first privately owned campground on the Grand Strand! It was the only resort of it’s kind offering customers a resort experience for a fraction of the cost of staying in a hotel. With affordability and a focus on family values, the Perry's continue to make Lakewood Camping Resort the choice destination in Myrtle Beach, SC.

Today the family investment has grown to 1,100 campsites, 105 rental Villas and more than 790 Villas owned by individuals from all over North America. With luxurious amenities spread across 200 acres of prime oceanfront real estate, Lakewood has grown to be one of the largest camping resorts in the world. An award winning mega RV Park, recognized as the National Mega Park of the Year for 2010-2011. The "Best Of South Carolina" Award in 2012, as well as the "Plan-It Green" Award for 2011-2012.

When Marion and Carl Perry were led to open the first privately owned campground in Myrtle Beach in 1959, they initially believed they were embarking on a new business venture. However, it didn't take them long to realize that their family owned business was just a vehicle that God was going to use to accomplish His goals.

Mr. and Mrs. Perry grasped the vision that they were to be stewards of the new property that God had entrusted to them to operate a Christian-oriented campground that offered campers a place to come and find good family values and an environment that promoted Christian ideas. They also saw the opporunity to share the gospel in a casual environment with many adults and children who may never enter into a formal worship setting. On January 10, 1972 Lakewood Campground Ministry was founded. The ministry is a non-profit ministry and is still a vital part of Lakewood's community today.

Lakewood Camping Resort is still owned and operated by the Perry family. It is their mission to continue to make Lakewood family focused so guests can enjoy Myrtle Beach, South Carolina... a place of beauty, harmony and one of the most tranquil atmospheres you will find anywhere!