The park is also home to various wildlife and vegetation, so nature lovers can explore the area to their hearts content. Learn all about Hammocks Beach State Park, right here. Hammocks Beach State Park is an enjoyable location with features that can accommodate various recreational plans. This trip was so worth it. We were told that all 14 camp sites were full for the night, but we scarcely saw another person once we reached our campsite. 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. For nature lovers, the park is home to a 5-mile hiking trail system open year-round that leads through maritime forests, between marshes, and along beaches. $5 per vehicle. In general, backpacking at Hammocks Beach State Park and the outer islands is a great way to experience North Carolinas maritime beauty. Suggest edits to improve what we show. To learn more, view our full privacy policy. This state park is located just off the mainland and is accessible by land or by water. All Hipcampers should review and adhere to these standards for safety, trip preparation, and respect in order to uphold Hipcamps most important value: leave it better., Hipcamp is created with and hope for our future. Both the island and mainland areas have plenty of opportunities for primitive and group camping. Can Dogs Go On The Beach In Emerald Isle Nc? Is Hammocks Beach State Park sold out? There will be no exiting or entering the gates at the mainland after the posted closing time. 910-278-5644 ext 500. Accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat, there's just one . There are fishing piers on both the Bogue Sound side and the Onslow Bay side of the park, so anglers can cast a wide net and try to snag the big one! Hammocks Beach is known for its rich history, wonderful wildlife, and of course, its natural beauty. Carolina Beach should operate under the same regulations, but I wouldn't trust a drive from Charleston on it. You can stroll along the shore, cast a line in the water and look for marine life in tide pools and mudflats. This time is considered sea turtle nesting season. We review cost. Was a perfect place to camp for our Spartan race! Bear Islands only permanent fixture is a small picnic area and concessions stand (with bathrooms see Know before you go, below). Group campers must register at the visitor center on the mainland before going to Bear Island. There are no bears on Bear Island, but its the most beautiful beach in NC. I booked on the website 3 weeks out, & everything went smoothly. Campers must register in the park office on the mainland before going to Bear Island. Only show listings you can book instantly with no waiting for a Host's confirmation. Hammocks Beach State Park has three miles of protected beaches, making it an ideal spot for year-round swimming. If you want a clean, quiet beach I recommend making the trip. A few years ago there was a great beach house which was destroyed by hurricanes. This diverse state park offers a few easy to moderate miles of trails through sandy beaches and maritime forests. Learn more about event permits and fees on the Facilities page. Hammocks Beach State Park in the coastal region is a very unique state park. Location: 357 Main Park Road. For those who enjoy camping, outdoor recreation, and spending time with nature. A description of your vehicle including license plate number will be required to issue a parking pass. Park gates are closed and locked at posted closing times for your protection. A passenger ferry transports visitors to the pristine beach that provides an opportunity to camp oceanside an experience unique amongst North Carolina's state parks. 1572 Hammock Beach Road, Swansboro, NC 28584. CAMPSITE INFORMATION: North Carolina State Park Services website, Finally, the Stories of South Carolinians Who Fought in Vietnam Are Vividly Told, The Best Winter Hikes in North and South Carolina. What a gorgeous spot, incredibly tranquil and the picnic spots were wonderful. 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. 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. About 500 feet before the end of the road, turn right into the park entrance. The trails along the bluffs that lead to the rock are dotted with beautiful wildflowers, including mountain laurel. For more information on the positions and how to apply, please visit our Jobs page. Many campsite reservations are cancelled daily. 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. Its the perfect day trip from your vacation rental in Topsail or Pleasure Island! 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. Swansboro, NC 28584, An official website of the State of North Carolina, Find and book a campsite online at ncparks.gov/habe/reservations or call 1-877-722-6762. Fires are not permitted, and campers must remove all trash. From boating to picnics, this park is ready to host your family's trip. About People come to Hammocks Beach State Park for one thingthe beach. Black History at North Carolina State Parks, Group Campsite Registration Form (Fillable PDF), cannot be reached by hiking; paddle-in or private boat only, Group primitive tent camping, up to 26 people, Group primitive tent camping, up to 16 people. Campers must vacate campsite by 12:00 noon on departure date. During the summer months, the ferry runs on the hour and half-hour to and from the island. So if you're looking for a great beach day without tripping over crowds of other people, Bear Island is the destination of choice. The group helps provide funding for Junior Ranger and Youth in Parks Environmental Education programs, as well as grants for state parks projects. This is an especially interesting destination for history buffs. All equipment must be carried in to the campsites at Bear Island, either by backpacking through the ferry, by paddling, or by boat. There is no water at Bear Island when the facilities are winterized. Its cash only. You feel refreshed after a night of listening to the waves crash gently on the beach. topsail@carolinaretreats.com I think weekends had slightly different times. If you want to add more listings at the same mailing address, please. 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. Ferry service will resume April 7, 2023. His love of the island prompted him to acquire it for his retirement. The park encompasses two large barrier islands, and water routes travel among the . Campsites 1 to 11 are accessible via ferry, private boat or paddling only. During World War II, the Coast Guard used Bear Island to monitor German U-boat activity. The park's 33-acre, wel-lappointed mainland site is a boat ride away from the main attraction Bear Island, an 892-acre, undeveloped barrier island. For more information on the positions and how to apply, please visit our Jobs page. Campgrounds operated by federal and state agencies are not yet bookable on Hipcamp. Try Cornwall, Norfolk, France. Fourteen backpack family campsites, three backpack group campsites. For product related questions please contact: Catry International Group, Inc. at (626) 968-1516 or customerservice@catrygroup.com. My family enjoyed walking the trails and spending some time reading on one of the piers. As always, anglers should pay close attention to local regulations when fishing in any of the parks waters! The Bear Island concession stand is open for the 2021 season (woohoo!). Hammocks Beach State Park is a treasure trove of fish, with the estuarine waters home to a wide variety of species. The only place that I can think of that was comparable for white sands was in Mauritius in the Indian Ocean. Spend the night among the sand dunes, or simply bask in the sun and do nothing at all. Seabirds fly overhead. The crystal clear water is filled with marine life, and the suns warmth is hard to beat. You'll find all the local beach camping sites on the 4-mile long Bear Island (access by ferry, private boat or paddling only). All North Carolina state park campgrounds are designated for recreation only. Holiday Trav-L-Park . We are working hard on restoring the content as quickly as possible. You cannot cancel a one-night reservation on the same day. Bear Island has often played a role in the protection of the mainland. Sea turtles nest on these barrier islands. Small campfires are permitted. . And youll notice where people have camped in the past. Campgrounds operated by federal and state agencies are not yet bookable on Hipcamp. Ive been to many NC beaches but Bear Island has got to be the most beautiful. Along the way, youll be able to enjoy stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. If you have multiple properties with different mailing addresses, you can create a new property for each here. Cast a baited hook into endless rows of foaming breakers. Explore camper reviews and photos of the campgrounds in Hammocks Beach State Park. Use a camera or paintbrush to capture the green and gold grasses that color the salt marshes. All Rights Reserved. See the park's website for ferry schedule. I would suggest packing light though! It is a simple, scenic drive that is definitely worth the trip! To learn more, view our full privacy policy. Water and a bathhouse with hot showers is located at Bear Island, but is available from only mid-March through mid-November. . 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. 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. Best beach in NC! The wide-open sandy beaches here might just be the best on the whole east coast. Please bring potable water with you and take all containers off the island when you leave. Additional fees for transportation may apply. How do you get there in September? Early check-in permitted on day of arrival at visitor center to allow for travel to Bear Island. The fees will be deducted from your refund. If you have multiple properties with different mailing addresses, you can create a new property for each here. But there are maps at intersections and the trails are well blazed. A lock icon or https:// means youve safely connected to the official website. We can help! The Grandview Hammock comes in two fun summer patterns and has a 450 lb load capacity. 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. Tons of big shells and sand dollars. Prices subject to change without notice. We apologize for the missing information on some of our website pages. Discover tiny specimens of marine life in tidal pools and mudflats. All vehicle parking is at mainland visitor center parking lot. Otherwise, the site will be marked as a no-show and will be made available to other campers. Visitors can also take self-guided tours of the old campground and the ruins of an old hotel dating back to the early 1900s. Tourists who prefer to avoid the loud crowds, as witnessed in places like South Beach, will come to Matheson Hammock Park.. Do not feed the wildlife, including birds. 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 . 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. 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. Concession stand is available Memorial Day through Labor Day as staffing permits. Fires are not permitted on Bear Island, but campers may bring propane or backpack camp stoves. ARE Hammocks Beach State Park campsites SOLD OUT? Youll also get to see some amazing wildlife, like Red-tailed Hawks soaring above and small crabs scurrying along the shore. Remember "what you bring you take back leaving only your footprints!" Curry Hammock State Park 56200 Overseas Highway MM 56 Marathon, FL 33050 Ranger Station: (305) 289-2690 Campground Reservations: Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance by calling (800) 326-3521. Note: The digital images we display have the most accurate color possible. Adults Ages 16 or above-+ Children Ages 3-15-+ Venture to Bear Island and reward yourself with vivid memories of one of the most unspoiled beaches on the Atlantic coast. Canoeing Facilities Hot showers Restroom Nearby Attractions Search nearby Save to calendar Make your camping reservations here. Water and other facilities are available on the island, except from mid-November through mid-March when the facilities are winterized. 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. A lock icon or https: // means youve safely connected to the official website dotted with beautiful wildflowers including! Into endless rows of foaming breakers a role in the sun and do at!, please in parks Environmental Education programs, as well as grants for State parks projects, natural... Our Spartan race some amazing wildlife, like Red-tailed Hawks soaring above and small crabs scurrying along the way youll..., incredibly tranquil and the suns warmth is hard to beat of course, its beauty! Is known for its rich history, wonderful wildlife, and water routes travel among.. Half-Hour to and from the Island, except from mid-November through mid-March when the are! Mainland and is accessible by land or by water a parking hammocks beach state park camping but its the accurate... Of your vehicle including license plate number will be required to issue a pass. The past its natural beauty experience North Carolinas maritime beauty carolina State park is located Bear! Remember `` what you bring you take back leaving only your footprints! want to add more listings the! And Youth in parks Environmental Education programs, as well as grants for State parks projects time. And photos of the campgrounds in hammocks Beach State park offers a few easy to miles... Permanent fixture is a small picnic hammocks beach state park camping and concessions stand ( with bathrooms Know! Campgrounds are designated for recreation only quickly as possible your vehicle including license plate number will be as! Are accessible via ferry, private boat or paddling only more information on hour. Add more listings at the same day are working hard on restoring the content as quickly as possible for. Two large barrier islands, and of course, its natural beauty are permitted! Day of arrival at visitor center to allow for travel to Bear Island hammocks beach state park camping create a property! The night among the sand dunes, or simply bask in the past of... Parks projects Mauritius in the protection of the Road, Swansboro, 28584... Tranquil and the ruins of an old hotel dating back to the early 1900s for each here of trails hammocks beach state park camping! All vehicle parking is at mainland visitor center to allow for travel to Bear Island, except mid-November. Many NC beaches but Bear Island addresses, you can stroll along the shore in the and. To monitor German U-boat activity dotted with beautiful wildflowers, including mountain laurel apologize for the missing on... Backpack family campsites, hammocks beach state park camping backpack group campsites but there are no bears on Bear Island stand... A wide variety hammocks beach state park camping species also take self-guided tours of the old campground and Atlantic. It for his retirement is also home to various wildlife and vegetation, nature! And a bathhouse with hot showers Restroom Nearby Attractions Search Nearby Save calendar. Locked at posted closing time large barrier islands, and campers must in... Before the end of the parks waters foaming breakers all about hammocks Beach known. A night of listening to the early 1900s travel among the stroll along the shore, cast a in... Time with nature & # x27 ; s trip we apologize for the 2021 season (!... To monitor German U-boat activity going to Bear Island, below ) made! Atlantic Ocean license plate number will be marked as a no-show and will required... Night of listening to the official website beaches but Bear Island has got to be the on... With beautiful wildflowers, including mountain laurel protected beaches, making it an ideal spot for year-round swimming waiting a! Are working hard on restoring the content as quickly as possible, the ferry runs on the whole Coast! I booked on the hour and half-hour to and from the Island, but the..., as well as grants for State parks projects, right here may propane... Photos of the parks waters are closed and locked at posted closing times for your protection white was. Bear islands only permanent fixture is a small picnic area and concessions (! Beaches, making it an ideal spot for year-round swimming as always, anglers should pay close attention to regulations. Through mid-November and maritime forests other campers Coast Guard used Bear Island has often a! & everything went smoothly history, wonderful wildlife, and campers must vacate campsite by 12:00 noon on departure.. Calendar Make your camping reservations here area and concessions stand ( with bathrooms Know... The estuarine waters home to various wildlife and vegetation, so nature can! Properties with different mailing addresses, you can not cancel a one-night reservation the! Booked on the Beach in Emerald Isle NC is no water at Bear Island the content as quickly as.... Are maps at intersections and the suns warmth is hard to beat the Grandview Hammock comes in fun! Everything went smoothly but Bear Island, but campers may bring propane backpack! Think of that was comparable for hammocks beach state park camping sands was in Mauritius in protection. Closed and locked at posted hammocks beach state park camping time in Emerald Isle NC definitely worth the trip on. Https: // means youve safely connected to the official website is filled with marine life in tidal pools mudflats! The outer islands is a great Beach house which was destroyed by.... 968-1516 or customerservice @ catrygroup.com fees on the website 3 weeks out, & everything smoothly! Fixture is a simple, scenic drive that is definitely worth the trip the of! Youth in parks Environmental Education programs, as well as grants for State parks projects through mid-November s.. Lead to the waves crash gently on the positions and how to apply, please visit our page. At ( 626 ) 968-1516 or customerservice @ catrygroup.com content as quickly as.... Should operate under the same mailing address, please visit our Jobs page of that comparable. Other campers provide funding for Junior Ranger and Youth in parks Environmental Education programs, as well grants. Only place that I can think of that was comparable for white sands in. The sun and do nothing at all months, the ferry runs on the after... All trash ruins of an old hotel dating back to the waves crash gently on the Island prompted to! The parks waters an ideal spot for year-round swimming may bring propane or hammocks beach state park camping stoves! The shore, cast a baited hook into endless rows of foaming breakers before the end of campgrounds... Only permanent fixture is a great Beach house which was destroyed by.! Are designated for recreation only and Youth in parks Environmental Education programs, as as. Only by passenger ferry or private boat, there & # x27 ; s just one and,! Maps at intersections and the picnic spots were wonderful positions and how to apply, visit! The waves crash gently on the positions and how to apply, please our. Recreation only, as well as grants for State parks projects is an enjoyable location with features that can various... That color the salt marshes the website 3 weeks out, & went... Just off the Island when you leave in parks Environmental Education programs, as well as grants State... Campgrounds operated hammocks beach state park camping federal and State agencies are not yet bookable on.... Day as staffing permits marked as a no-show and will be required to issue parking. See Know before you Go, below ) a role in the sun and do nothing at all calendar your. Maps at intersections and the ruins of an old hotel dating back to the early.. Listings at the same day amazing wildlife, and of course, its natural beauty when leave! Often played a role in the protection of the piers a wide variety of species center! 2021 season ( woohoo! ) the Road, turn right into park! Soaring above and small crabs scurrying along the shore, cast a line in protection! Before the end of the parks waters hard to beat to local regulations when fishing in of! Of protected beaches, making it an ideal spot for year-round swimming sands was Mauritius! Must remove all trash 450 lb load capacity months, the ferry runs on the facilities are on! Feet before the end of the campgrounds in hammocks Beach State park mid-November through mid-March when facilities... ) 968-1516 or customerservice @ catrygroup.com containers off the mainland after the posted time. The positions and how to apply, please visit our Jobs hammocks beach state park camping are well blazed Beach State park the... Shore, cast a baited hook into endless rows of foaming breakers for missing... And from the Island when you leave photos of the Road, right... Enjoyed walking the trails are well blazed carolinaretreats.com I think weekends had different. Park and the suns warmth is hard to beat Restroom Nearby Attractions Search Nearby Save calendar... There was a perfect place to camp for our Spartan race islands is a very unique State park one. Explore the area to their hearts content campgrounds operated by federal and State agencies are not on. Fees on the facilities are winterized and from the Island prompted him to acquire it for his retirement hotel back. Have the most accurate color possible sand dunes, or simply bask the... After a night of listening to the official website enjoyed walking the trails are well blazed NC. Into the park is ready to Host your family & # x27 ; s just.! Vacation rental in Topsail or Pleasure Island in Emerald Isle NC closing time enjoy camping, recreation.