Create Campsite Availability Alert The 20-minute roundtrip passenger ferry ride takes passengers to the parks main attractions, including the iconic Bear Island, where visitors can get an up-close view of the wild horses, as well as enjoy the pristine white sand beaches and spectacular sunsets. Campers are required to walk/hike a 1/2 mile to 1 1/4 miles to reach campsite with all camping gear and supplies. This design will appeal to people who have fond memories of camping trips and the sense of community that can develop among campers. Santa Rosa Beach FL 32459. Our app helps you find canceled reservations at Hammocks Beach State Park. Native Americans living in the coastal region of North Carolina historically used the waterways to travel by dugout canoes. About 500 feet before the end of the road, turn right into the park entrance. These campsites are available to organized or affiliated groups only. 1572 Hammocks Beach Road Positions range from 3 to 6 months and up to 11 months. Concession stand is available Memorial Day through Labor Day as staffing permits. Please see www.ncfisheries.net or call the Division of Marine Fisheries at 252.726.7021 or 800.682.2632 for information on how and where to obtain a license. Its a great way to beat the summer heat, and there are plenty of beach activities to keep swimmers entertained. Accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat, there's just one thing at Hammocks Beach that's crowded - the list of things to do. Theres plenty of room to spread out on the beach at Bear Island, Hammocks Beach State Park, near Jacksonville, NC. 2023 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved. Hammocks Beach State Park, North Carolina - Campsites, Cabins & Lodging Find First Available Date Facility Details Business rules for Holiday Weekends Holiday booking date rules are as follows: 2 nights Minimum Stay on holiday weekend (Friday/Saturday or Saturday/Sunday) Look for a hammock at least 8.5 feet long and between 4 and 5 feet wide for a single, or greater than 6 feet wide for a double. Super Versatile Inflatable hammock is durable and waterproof, easy to clean, can be used on grass, sand, rocks and other surfaces, suitable for indoor, park, beach, pool party, barbecue, hiking, travel, concert, picnic, camping and other activities. Swansboro, NC 28584, An official website of the State of North Carolina, View the dates and times the ferry departs for Bear Island and back. Use landmarks to navigate fresh content. If you've never camped before this is a great first-timers campground, especially for tent camping. Park gates are closed and locked at posted closing times for your protection. Located in Onslow County 19 miles southeast of Jacksonville, Hammocks Beach State Park comprises a mainland area and three barrier islands, including the 4-mile-long Bear Island. What rhymes with "hammock" and is a must-have while camping? Later, pirates and Spanish privateers frequented the area and attacked merchant ships, with Blackbeard being one of the most notorious pirates. Follow the Hickory Bluff, Evergreen, Queens Creek and Coastal Fringe Trails over boardwalks and sandy marshlands as you make your way through the forested park. Pets are permitted in the park on a leash no longer than 6 feet. He intended to will it to his friend, John Hurst, but Hurst convinced him to donate it to the North Carolina Teachers Association. With the purchase of initial ferry tickets and multiple nights of camping, campers are permitted one free round-trip ferry ride per day per person. Cash only. We prefer a more secluded spot to a. When you say get there early to buy tickets but the first boat doesn't leave until 9:30, how early do you mean? With its access to the Intracoastal Waterway, Hammocks Beach State Park has a few good kayak launch spots for boaters to set out on a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or small motorized private boat. beachhouse@carolinaretreats.com We review cost. Campnab scans parks for cancelations. Access to Bear Island by Seasonal Ferry Service, Kayak, Canoe, Private Boat, Private Water Taxi. His love of the island prompted him to acquire it for his retirement. We had plans to go Monday - Tuesday but ferries only operate on Wednesdays? Please input the date in MM dash DD dash YYYY format. For more information on the positions and how to apply, please visit our Jobs page. This gorgeous state park comprises several barrier islands (Bear Island, Huggins Island, Dudley Island, and Jones Island) off the coast of Swansboro, North Carolina, each with its own diverse ecosystem. The campground is located out on Bear Island and is only accessible by ferry or boat (kayak, canoe, and paddle board). Just tell us when you'd like to camp at Hammocks Beach State Park, and how long you want to camp for. Water and other facilities are available on the island, except from mid-November through mid-March when the facilities are winterized. Fees are charged for camping, certain event permits, and facility reservations. The nature is everywhere, its so quiet, and there is NOTHING else like waking up to the sound of the ocean less than 100ish feet away. All Hosts should review and adhere to these standards around providing a positive Hipcamp experience, being a thoughtful neighbor, and serving as a responsible citizen. The short hike from the ferry to the beach is not too arduous - rewarding the hiker with the most incredible pristine beach imaginable. My family enjoyed walking the trails and spending some time reading on one of the piers. Venture to Bear Island and reward yourself with vivid memories of one of the most unspoiled beaches on the Atlantic coast. Cast a baited hook into endless rows of foaming breakers. Stroll . Camping at Hammocks Beach The park offers year-round camping for those more adventurous souls on 14 family campsites and three group campsites, all of which are located on Bear Island's coastline near the ferry dock. There are no fees required to access Hammocks Beach State Park for day use, except for boat launches and ferry passes. Read the campsite information on ReserveAmerica to see photos of campsites; check availability and fees; find out whether a specific site is wheelchair accessible, has access to water, bathhouses or pit toilets, or has RV hookups; and learn other important information. Hammocks Beach State Park is home to land and water attractions. Current camp permit with an attached receipt for ferry tickets must be presented at the visitor center to receive ferry tickets at no charge. All campers must occupy campsite. The beach was larger/longer than expected, & absolutely beautiful. Hammocks Beach State Park is an amazing place to go for a hike, and you can easily mix and match some aquatic fun with some trailside adventure. 2023 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved. Pets must be on an attended leash of no longer than 6 feet at all times. Hammocks Beach recently opened several nature trails on the mainland section of the park. 43. They actually welcomed it at Shinleaf. From wooden bridges to sandy paths, you can take your pick of different trails to explore. Do not set up camp in or around the bathhouse or on the beach. Snuggle up like a koala in this cute hammock from Coalatree. Follow NC 24 east through Jacksonville to Swansboro. Black History at North Carolina State Parks, Visitors with limited mobility or disabilities, Tent sites (backpacking via ferry or paddle-in), Group tent sites (for organized groups only, backpacking via ferry), Hiking (2.3 miles of trails at the mainland; 4 miles of beach). The park's main attraction is Bear Island, but we visited in the winter when the ferry is not operating and had our dog with us for the state park passport program. Learn all about Hammocks Beach State Park, right here. The park also offers several boat launches and kayak rentals so you can fish on the water along the paddle trails. Or, travel by boat or ferry to Bear Island and see what this park's water attraction has to offer. Read More Details Hammocks Beach State Park, North Carolina - Camping & Campgrounds. Topsail Island A quiet, and surprisingly green, escape from the otherwise bustling beach, the park provides educational opportunities, a nature trail and some of the best surf fishing South Carolina has to offer as well as stunning ocean views and another great fishing spot on . The Friends of the Hammocks and Bear Island promotes, supports, and advocates for Hammocks Beach State Park through organizing volunteer efforts, educating visitors, hosting events, and fundraising. yes that's plenty of time ..They go to Bear Island .On island there is camping places where you can stay the night in your tent but there is no stores or anything like that it's empty island. Hammocks Beach State Park has three miles of protected beaches, making it an ideal spot for year-round swimming. Park rangers were super nice and camp sites were . Hammocks Beach State ParkSwansboro, North Carolina Overview We travel to North Carolina and visit the crown jewel of the North Carolina Coast. Located at the foot of Bear Island - one of the major attractions of the State Parks for kayakers and canoeists from across the state - Hammocks Beach State Park offers four miles of unspoiled shoreline accessible by ferry or private vehicle. Group campers must register at the visitor center on the mainland before going to Bear Island. Hammocks Beach State Park is a treasure trove of fish, with the estuarine waters home to a wide variety of species. Is there just Bear Island Beach area at this state park or another Beach area as well? Accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat, there's just one thing at Hammocks Beach that's crowded - the list of things to do. Address: Hammocks Beach State Park, 1572 State Rd 1511, Swansboro, NC 28584, USA North Carolina In Your Inbox Campsites 1 to 11 are accessible via ferry, private boat or paddling only. If you are planning on taking the ferry to Bear Island, please check the availability and schedule on our Ferry Schedule page. Accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat, there's just one thing at Hammocks Beach that's crowded - the list of things to do. Ferry service will resume April 7, 2023. With more than 10 miles of pristine beach and secluded islands, this is the perfect place to leave the mainland and enjoy the great outdoors. 2. At first glance, Hammocks Beach State Park doesn't look like much. Pets are allowed at the park and at campsites. Explore camper reviews and photos of the campgrounds in Hammocks Beach State Park. Campsites 12 to 14 are accessible by private boat or paddling only and are not hikeable. Canoeing Facilities Hot showers Restroom Nearby Attractions Search nearby Save to calendar Hammocks Beach State Park Parks Directory of the United States / State Parks / North Carolina Location:Bear Island; 4.5 miles west of Swansboro off NC 24 on State Road 1511. Does camping on a remote sandy beach sound appealing? Before you go, review the Bear Island ferry schedule (the schedule may be published as a link to a PDF). Hotels near Riverfront Park, Swansboro, NC, Hotels near New Hanover County Airport (ILM), Hotels near Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN), Motels near Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN), Motels near New Hanover County Airport (ILM), Things to do near Hammocks Beach State Park, Points of Interest & Landmarks in Swansboro, Buzios Tour from Rio with Boat Ride and Lunch, Bali Snorkeling Tour at Blue Lagoon Beach: Private Transfer All-Inclusive, Bali Beach Hopping - Uluwatu Sunset Tours, Private Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour, City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, Hampton Inn & Suites Swansboro Near Camp Lejeune, View all hotels near Hammocks Beach State Park on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Hammocks Beach State Park on Tripadvisor. The island again assumed military importance nearly a century later when, during World War II, the Coast Guard used it to secure the coast and monitor German U-boat activity. Bring your kids to the visitor center to engage in interpretive programs and see a wealth of exhibits about the land, waters and history. For those who enjoy camping, outdoor recreation, and spending time with nature. Now, note the ends. Just 33 acres of park territory lies on the mainland, with the remainder of its 1,500-odd acres found offshore on the three-mile-long Bear Island. If you're bringing your kids and loved ones along, this area tops the list of best family-friendly locations in Miami. The calm, crystal-clear water of Hammocks Beach allows visitors to enjoy a peaceful and serene day out on the water on rented gear or a private boat. Discover tiny specimens of marine life in tidal pools and mudflats. All vehicles left in the parking lot overnight must be registered at the visitor office or be subject to towing. You can also recline under the sun and work on your tan with the rotisserie technique. Half-Day E-Bike Tour of Wilmington's History, Haunts & Breweries, Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise, Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Wilmington by Operation City Quest, 2-Hour Wilmington Guided Tour on Electric Bikes, Morning Aerial Adventure Adult Course from Riegelwood, Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Wilmington by Zombie Scavengers, 1-Hour Wilmington Guided Tour on Electric Bikes. Heading to this beautiful sprawling park is a convenient day trip that will be a hit with the whole family! Amenities include showers and pit toilets, and drinking water is available on the island from mid-March through mid-November. The trails are relatively easy to traverse and offer great opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Park Ecology. ARE Hammocks Beach State Park campsites SOLD OUT? The trails along the bluffs that lead to the rock are dotted with beautiful wildflowers, including mountain laurel. The Bear Island ferry is scheduled to operate until Oct. 31, 2021 (the concession stand closes Sept. 6), with round-trip ticket prices of $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and children 3-12, children 2 and under are free. Once you get to Hammocks Beach State park, youll find plenty of activities for the whole family. They fought against colonists in the Tuscarora wars. The trails are very new, so they're not on the printed map and don't yet have names. We would like to show you a description here but the site won't allow us. All used charcoal must be carried out with you. How strict is the park about campfires? With the purchase of initial ferry tickets and multiple nights of camping, campers are permitted one free round-trip ferry ride per day. Website Design by InterCoastal Net Designs, Hammocks Beach State Park: A Visitors Guide, A Hikers Guide to the Mountains to Sea Trail in Topsail Island. This is a hidden treasure - only accessible by ferry at limited times of the year. Learn more about event permits and fees on the Facilities page. Join, volunteer or donate! Its cash only. Hammocks Beach State Park is a beautiful and serene outdoor paradise just north of North Carolinas Topsail and Pleasure Island coast, near Emerald Isle. Bring breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are 11 sites available right on the sandy beach. Last-minute getaway? From I-95, take I-40 east to NC 24. So if you're looking for a great beach day without tripping over crowds of other people, Bear Island is the destination of choice. If you do not arrive on your scheduled arrival date, you must contact the park by 3 p.m. the following day to inform the staff of your arrival. About the Park. Located in Onslow County 19 miles southeast of Jacksonville, Hammocks Beach State Park comprises a mainland area and three barrier islands, including the 4-mile-long Bear Island. A few years ago there was a great beach house which was destroyed by hurricanes. We apologize for the missing information on some of our website pages. 12/11/2022. From endangered sea turtles to nesting shorebirds, theres always something to explore. Adults Ages 16 or above-+ Children Ages 3-15-+ 6 FUN THINGS TO TRY OUT IN THE GREAT STATE OF TENNESSEE. Day-use admission: $5 per vehicle (2-8 people); $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists. Friends of State Parks is a nonprofit citizen organization supporting, promoting, and advocating for the North Carolina State Parks system as a whole. Tons of big shells and sand dollars. Keep your camera handy! During the Civil War, Confederate troops on the island defended it against Union forces occupying Bogue Banks. Most events are free, though some may require pre-registration. When you say get there early to buy tickets but the site won & # x27 ; t allow.! Into endless rows of foaming breakers once you get to Hammocks Beach State Park, Jacksonville. That will be a hit with the estuarine waters home to a PDF ) 5 vehicle! 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