Description
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 seasonal passenger ferry transports visitors to the pristine beach that provides an opportunity to swim, surf, look for shells, and fish. Alternatively, visitors can rent or bring their own kayak or canoe for a closer exploration of the marshlands and maritime swamp forests that surround the park's island areas. The park offers two distinct camping experiences, primitive beach camping on Bear Island and more traditional drive-up camping on the mainland.
Nearby Attractions:
A few miles away are the towns of Swansboro, Cape Carteret, and Emerald Isle; featuring a downtown historic district, summertime outdoor concerts, sunset and marsh cruises in Bogue Sound, golfing, arcade, bowling, go carts, sky trail, along with drive to beaches. Each town offers unique dining, and shopping experiences.
Park Gate Hours:
8:00 am till 6:00 pm: January, February, November, and December
8:00 am till 8:00 pm: March, April, May, September, and October
8:00 am till 9:00 pm: June, July, and August
Visitor Center Hours:
8:00 am till 5:00 pm Year-Round,
8:00 am till 6:00 pm Memorial Day - Labor Day
Bear Island Loop and Bear Island Boat In Only Loop:
Check-in required at the visitor center for Bear Island campsites. No late arrivals.
Open fires of any kind are not allowed on Bear Island.
Bear Island campsites require transportation by canoe, kayak, private boat, or ferry service when operating. Ferry service information available at:
Hammocks Beach State Park: Home | NC State Parks (ncparks.gov).
Simmons Mainland Campground has 24-hour drive-up access to the campground. Check-in at 3:00 pm NO Early Check-ins.
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