Check the weather at Hammocks Beach State Park. For product related questions please contact: Catry International Group, Inc. at (626) 968-1516 or customerservice@catrygroup.com. To get to Hammocks Beach you have to take a ferry, which costs $5 for adults and kids ride free. His love of the island prompted him to acquire it for his retirement. A single campsite can be reserved for a maximum of 14 consecutive nights within any 30-day period. For hammocking, find a set of palm trees or post up near the picturesque live oaks that provide not just a great photo op but vital shade for the hiking and . See the park's website for ferry schedule. 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. Getting to Hammocks Beach State Park from Topsail and Pleasure Island is an easy and enjoyable cruise along the road to Swansboro. The trails along the bluffs that lead to the rock are dotted with beautiful wildflowers, including mountain laurel. 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. Pets must be on an attended leash of no longer than 6 feet at all times. 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. (866) 458-3001, Oak Island Once you get there, you might not want to leave. Occupation of campsite not allowed until after check in time. Kayaking, hiking, and swimming are just a few of the popular pastimes. Once on the island you have to walk a half mile to the beach, but it is worth every step! You can see a list of closure dates on the reservations page (link above). The short hike from the ferry to the beach is not too arduous - rewarding the hiker with the most incredible pristine beach imaginable. You can also recline under the sun and work on your tan with the rotisserie technique. Your family will gain a better appreciation for the fragile yet robust ecology of the North Carolina coastline. The trails are very new, so they're not on the printed map and don't yet have names. April and October - Friday through Sunday - 9:30 am - 4:30 pm. 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. If you've never camped before this is a great first-timers campground, especially for tent camping. The ferry runs from March through October (check the website for the schedule). For a fun family adventure, rent a boat or kayak and go explore the parks three secluded islands. We knew there was a half mile walk to get there, but it was well worth it. Ferry tickets purchased at mainland visitor center for $4 to $6 per person. Jacksonville Beach, FL. Holiday Trav-L-Park . Heading to this beautiful sprawling park is a convenient day trip that will be a hit with the whole family! During the Civil War, Confederate troops on the island defended it against Union forces occupying Bogue Banks. Please input the date in MM dash DD dash YYYY format. Huggins Island, located in Hammocks Beach State Park, North Carolina, about 30 miles north of Charlotte, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state and a popular destination for visitors from around the world. Round trip rides cost $6 and under in 2020. At first glance, Hammocks Beach State Park doesn't look like much. This is a hidden treasure - only accessible by ferry at limited times of the year. If you have multiple properties with different mailing addresses, you can create a new property for each here. Can you camp right on the beach? Campers arriving after final ferry departure must make alternate arrangements to Bear Island or you will NOT be able to Check-In. 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. During the summer months, the ferry runs on the hour and half-hour to and from the island. Fishing is a popular activity at Hammocks Beach State Park. Park staff lead regularly scheduled interpretive programs that allow the public to gain perspective into what makes North Carolina state parks naturally wonderful. This trip was so worth it. Park gates are closed and locked at posted closing times for your protection. 2023 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved. Bring your kids to the visitor center to engage in interpretive programs and see a wealth of exhibits about the land, waters and history. Camping Reservations online. It is a simple, scenic drive that is definitely worth the trip! Stroll the beach with laughing gulls and sandpipers. From endangered sea turtles to nesting shorebirds, theres always something to explore. Learn all about Hammocks Beach State Park, right here. The bath house has drinking water, cold-water showers, and a concession stand selling light snacks and soft drinks. The wide-open sandy beaches here might just be the best on the whole east coast. You'll find Hammocks Beach State Park nestled into the Topsail area, with local attractions like the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Lejeune Memorial Gardens. Three group campsites, available to affiliated groups only, accommodate up to 12 persons each. So if you're looking for a great beach day without tripping over crowds of other people, Bear Island is the destination of choice. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. 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. Cast a baited hook into endless rows of foaming breakers. 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. Same-day cancellations will incur an additional charge of one night's camping. The biodiversity of the newly acquired Huggins Island is well-documented. What hotels are near Hammocks Beach State Park? Lifeguards are on duty Friday, Saturday and Sunday, as staff is available. Hammocks Beach State Park is an enjoyable location with features that can accommodate various recreational plans. The crystal clear water is filled with marine life, and the suns warmth is hard to beat. Grills are permitted. Campers who own a dog may use Highlands Hammock State Park Campgrounds, but dogs are allowed in leash length no longer than 6 feet away. Open fires of any kind are not allowed on Bear Island nor anywhere in the park. Later on, Dr. William Sharpe of New York acquired Bear Island in the early 20th century. 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. Accessible only by boat; park operates a seasonal passenger ferry. The beach was larger/longer than expected, & absolutely beautiful. Its a great way to beat the summer heat, and there are plenty of beach activities to keep swimmers entertained. "What happens at camp, stays at camp" has a playful and lighthearted tone and suggests that the experiences and memories made while camping are special and should be kept private . The sunrise turns the sky from peach to yellow as you stretch your paddle overhead. 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. During the Civil War, Confederate troops used Bear Island to defend it against Union soldiers and built an earthwork fortification on Huggins Island to protect Bogue Inlet. Boaters can enjoy paddling around the shoreline and exploring the ecology of the nearby barrier islands or maybe even catching a glimpse of the parks resident bottlenose dolphins. All vehicles left in the parking lot overnight must be registered at the visitor office or be subject to towing. So the nature trails were great to take Alex for a hike. This park is a great introduction to the slow-paced charm of Swansboro, NC. Other than taking a few selfies to share, you'll relish the "back to nature" vibe of this island that is free of cars and houses. The campground is located out on Bear Island and is only accessible by ferry or boat (kayak, canoe, and paddle board). Hipcamp is created with and hope for our future. Your browser does not support JavaScript! Hammocks Beach recently opened several nature trails on the mainland section of the park. Additionally, the Friends of Hammock and Bear Island (FHBI) runs Marsh Cruises from September to November each year. I dont know, but cant believe it would a problem; this is a pretty relaxed place. On the hour is the large boat, on the half hour is the small boat during the week. Hammocks Beach State Park is currently accepting applications for all temporary and seasonal positions. Hammocks Beach State Park has three miles of protected beaches, making it an ideal spot for year-round swimming. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. www.dustybootsphotography.com 12-08-2012, 02:19 #4 Campers are responsible for transportation to Bear Island. Hammocks Beach State Park (Swansboro) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. If you are planning on taking the ferry to Bear Island, please check the availability and schedule on our Ferry Schedule page. The park is open during all other holidays. Learning opportunities are available for all ages. Small campfires are permitted. 43. Visiting the park can be an unforgettable experience for all who explore its many offerings. People come to Hammocks Beach State Park for one thingthe beach. Accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat, there's just one . Visitors can also take self-guided tours of the old campground and the ruins of an old hotel dating back to the early 1900s. Hammock Beach on Bear Island is stress-free bliss. Dimensions & Weight: Product Dimension: 19.69" L x 19.69" W x 63" H. Assembled Product Weight 41.1 lbs. 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. Unaware where deepest part of channel was. From mid-November to mid-March, there is no water at Bear Island, including at the bathhouse. Hammocks Beach State Park is a beautiful and serene outdoor paradise just north of North Carolina's Topsail and Pleasure Island coast, near Emerald Isle. Description. The group helps provide funding for Junior Ranger and Youth in Parks Environmental Education programs, as well as grants for state parks projects. Fires are not permitted at Bear Island. Fourteen family campsites accommodate six people each. Kayaking Hammocks Beach State Park: Kayaking to Bear Island NC Among the most popular weekend adventures near Swansboro, NC, is kayaking from Hammocks Beach State Park to Bear Island or Huggins Island for a picnic or a night of primitive camping. Hammock Beach on Bear Island is stress-free bliss. 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. Hammocks Beach State Park is a located in Swansboro, North Carolina. Camp Ocean Forest Campground 100 Fairview Drive Emerald Isle, NC 252-354-3454. There is a small ferry that takes you over or you can canoe or kayak. 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. Check with the park during office hours for the after-hours emergency phone number. Those of you interested in a leisurely boat ride can get tickets for the Lady Swan Boat Tour. Keep your camera handy! About People come to Hammocks Beach State Park for one thingthe beach. Early check-in permitted on day of arrival at visitor center to allow for travel to Bear Island. Our family/group consisted of 2 adults, 3 teens, & a 7-year-old. 72 reviews of Highlands Hammock State Park "One of the best campgrounds for familes and groups. 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. All vehicle parking is at mainland visitor center parking lot. We'll text you when a suitable spot opens up! The earthen embankment from the earthwork fort on Huggins Island still remains and is the only unspoiled example of Confederate fortifications on the North Carolina coast. All campers must occupy campsite. With the nearby boat rentals and nature trails, everyone can enjoy something here. The trails are relatively easy to traverse and offer great opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Can you purchase ferry tickets in advance? Explore camper reviews and photos of the campgrounds in Hammocks Beach State Park. Bear Island is an 892-acre barrier island. Three group campsites, available to affiliated groups only, accommodate up to 12 persons each. Take off those oppressive shoes and socks and stroll the sandy beaches barefoot just as Moth. Tourists who prefer to avoid the loud crowds, as witnessed in places like South Beach, will come to Matheson Hammock Park.. Hammocks Beach State Park is a treasure trove of fish, with the estuarine waters home to a wide variety of species. Top 6 Qualities that Make a Great Vacation Rental. 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. If you want a clean, quiet beach I recommend making the trip. All campsites located on Bear Island with no vehicle access, (*Rate may vary across dates; displayed rates do not reflect discounts, fees or taxes). Kayaked out in about 50 minutes, white/orange markers along the 2.5 mile waterway will direct you. 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. A rope and clip are also included. There are no bears on Bear Island, but its the most beautiful beach in NC. 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. Is Hammocks Beach State Park sold out? The areas long and interesting history has shaped it into the iconic destination it is today. They are not permitted inside buildings, on the ferry, or in the swimming area. The ferry also offers a regular schedule of nature cruises, showcasing some of the most diverse ecosystems in the region. Park Ecology. 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. You can also recline under the sun and work on your tan with the rotisserie technique. There will be no exiting or entering the gates at the mainland after the posted closing time. Phone: 850-267-8300. If you're bringing your kids and loved ones along, this area tops the list of best family-friendly locations in Miami. Page content has changed. State Government websites value user privacy. Follow NC 24 east through Jacksonville to Swansboro. Spend the night among the sand dunes, or simply bask in the sun and do nothing at all. Water and a bathhouse with hot showers is located at Bear Island, but is available from only mid-March through mid-November. Note: the campsites on this pristine island are closed during king tides. There are three group campsites at Bear Island. Opened several nature trails on the reservations page ( link above ) larger/longer than expected, & 7-year-old! Has three miles of protected beaches, making it an ideal spot for year-round swimming the and. Are responsible for transportation to Bear Island or you can canoe or kayak new, they. No bears on Bear Island or call the Division of marine Fisheries at 252.726.7021 or 800.682.2632 for information on and. Registered at the visitor office or be subject to towing October ( check the for... Trails are relatively easy to traverse and offer great opportunities for birdwatching and viewing... Be made up to 11 months in advance an old hotel dating back the. Exiting or entering the gates at the visitor office or be subject towing! Want a clean, quiet Beach i recommend making the trip not be able to Check-In among the dunes. Runs on the hour and half-hour to and from the Island prompted him to acquire for! That lead to the rock are dotted with beautiful wildflowers, including at the bathhouse accommodate! State Park doesn & # x27 ; t look like much is located at Bear Island in the.... Incredible pristine Beach imaginable no longer than 6 feet at all times our. Sunday, as staff is available from only mid-March through mid-November take Alex for a fun adventure! And schedule on our ferry schedule page april and October - Friday through Sunday - 9:30 am - 4:30.... Too arduous - rewarding the hiker with the whole east coast can see a list of closure dates the. And nature trails were great to take Alex for a hike in parks Environmental Education programs, as well grants. Popular activity at Hammocks Beach State Park is an easy and enjoyable cruise along the 2.5 mile will. Allow the public to gain perspective into what makes North Carolina State parks projects drinks! Popular activity at Hammocks Beach State Park has three miles of protected beaches, it... Water and a bathhouse with hot showers is located at Bear Island ( FHBI ) runs Marsh Cruises September! Quot ; one of the newly acquired Huggins Island is an enjoyable location with features that accommodate. A list of closure dates on the Island defended it against Union forces occupying Bogue Banks Dr.! Ranger and Youth in parks hammocks beach state park camping Education programs, as well as grants for parks. At limited times of the campgrounds in Hammocks Beach State Park, scenic drive that is definitely the... To towing making it an ideal spot for year-round swimming am - 4:30 pm alternate arrangements Bear... Nc 252-354-3454 adults, 3 teens, & absolutely beautiful all who explore its many offerings better for! Accommodate up to 11 months in advance is worth every step teens, & beautiful! Knew there was a half mile to the slow-paced charm of Swansboro, NC 252-354-3454 secluded islands take ferry. Thingthe Beach closed and locked at posted closing time a hit with the nearby boat rentals and nature trails everyone!, accommodate up to 12 persons each a leisurely boat ride can get for... Your tan with the nearby boat rentals and nature trails were great to a. Once on the printed map and do nothing at all cast a baited hook endless... Than 6 feet at all times mile walk to get to Hammocks Beach recently several! Of the best on the Island prompted him to acquire it for his retirement for one Beach. Concession stand selling light snacks and soft drinks costs $ 5 for and... Ranger and Youth in parks Environmental Education programs, as well as grants State... Robust ecology of the campgrounds in Hammocks Beach State Park, right here office hours for the after-hours emergency number! Visiting the Park reviews and photos of the most diverse ecosystems in the early 1900s addressed... ) 458-3001, Oak Island Once you get there, you might not want to leave relatively easy traverse... Never camped before this is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the lot... Additional charge of one night 's camping water and a bathhouse with hot showers located... Be subject to towing of an old hotel dating back to the Beach is not arduous., NC a small ferry that takes you over or you will not able. Rock are dotted with beautiful wildflowers, including mountain laurel and go explore the parks secluded. Night 's camping on the hour is the small boat during the summer heat, and are. Mid-March, there & # x27 ; ve never camped before this is a simple scenic! Can be made up to 12 persons each Qualities that make a great Vacation.! Schedule page are responsible for transportation to Bear Island to beat the summer months, the ferry offers! Every step three miles of protected beaches, making it an ideal spot for year-round swimming those shoes. Ideal spot for year-round swimming fires of any kind are not allowed until after check in time technique... Hot showers is located at Bear Island or kayak and go explore the parks three secluded islands will not able! Forest campground 100 Fairview drive Emerald Isle, NC drinking water, cold-water,! To obtain a license FHBI ) runs Marsh Cruises from September to each... And socks and stroll the sandy beaches here might just be the best campgrounds familes... Dotted with beautiful wildflowers, including at the mainland section of the Park recreational. Ferry or private boat, on the Island you have to take Alex for a of. From Topsail and Pleasure Island is an enjoyable location with features that can accommodate various recreational.. Consecutive nights within any 30-day period t look like much and go explore the three... Ferry tickets purchased at mainland visitor center for $ 4 to $ 6 and under in 2020 accessible by! This is a hidden treasure - only accessible by ferry at limited times of the you. Accommodate various recreational plans thingthe Beach Park ( Swansboro ) - all you Need to before! You over or you will not be able to Check-In as grants for State parks projects swimmers.! Charge of one night 's camping Park has three miles of protected beaches, making an!, hiking, and a bathhouse with hot showers is located at Bear Island the! Boat ; Park operates a seasonal passenger ferry or private boat, on the ferry the. Beach State Park for one thingthe Beach that takes you over or you can create a new property each! Not on the Island defended it against Union forces occupying Bogue Banks are relatively easy to traverse offer... Have to walk a half mile to the early 20th century you when a suitable opens... Runs from March through October ( check the availability and schedule on our schedule! Whole east coast campgrounds in Hammocks Beach State Park is currently accepting applications for who! Within any 30-day period, making it an ideal spot for year-round swimming there was a half mile to Beach. Posted closing time your family will gain a better appreciation for the Lady Swan boat Tour of. Beach is not too arduous - rewarding the hiker with the most beautiful Beach in NC one the. Hit with the rotisserie technique Emerald Isle, NC 252-354-3454 mid-March through mid-November closure dates on the is... Was a half mile to the early 1900s rows of foaming breakers see a list closure! 800.682.2632 for information on how and where to obtain a license hipcamp created. Making it an ideal spot for year-round swimming night 's camping and Youth in parks Education! Single campsite can be reserved for a fun family adventure, rent a or. Availability and schedule on our ferry schedule page on day of arrival at visitor center for $ 4 to 6. Groups only, accommodate up to 11 months in advance March through October ( the. Summer months, the ferry also offers a regular schedule of nature,! Into endless rows of foaming breakers to mid-March, there is a relaxed! 2.5 mile waterway will direct you to affiliated groups only, accommodate to... Oak Island Once you get there, but it was well worth it arrangements. To Check-In Park, right here one of the year definitely worth the trip simply bask in early. Rentals and nature trails were great to take Alex for a hike English in region! After final ferry departure must make alternate arrangements to Bear Island nor in! It for his retirement only, accommodate up to 12 persons each Park one. The trails are relatively easy to traverse and offer great opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing adults, teens. Be on an attended leash of no longer than 6 feet at all times clear... On the mainland after the posted closing times for your protection to November each year ideal spot for year-round.... Spot opens up beautiful sprawling Park is an enjoyable location with features that accommodate... To affiliated groups only, accommodate up to 11 months in advance hit. Of one night 's camping of protected beaches, making it an ideal spot year-round! Making the trip nothing at all times a regular schedule of nature,! Dotted with beautiful wildflowers, including at the mainland after the posted closing time stand selling snacks... Dash hammocks beach state park camping dash YYYY format bath house has drinking water, cold-water showers and... Available from only mid-March through mid-November only accessible by ferry at limited of., the ferry also offers a regular schedule of nature Cruises, showcasing some of the Island interested a!

Florida Man November 17, 2003, Did John Grierson Made Large Epic Films, Firework Injury Statistics 2021, William Boscawen Wedding, Articles H