Hammocks Beach State Park
Facility Status
Open
Open
Closed
Due to construction on Bear Island.
Closed
due to construction
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 passenger ferry transports visitors to the pristine beach that provides an opportunity to camp oceanside — an experience unique amongst North Carolina's state parks. 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.
Camping
- Tent sites (backpacking via ferry or paddle-in)
- Group tent sites (for organized groups only, backpacking via ferry)
- Showers
Activities
- Hiking (2.3 miles of trails at the mainland; 4 miles of beach)
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Picnicking
Amenities
- Boat ramp
- Concession stand (seasonal)
- Auditorium
- Gazebo and picnic shelter
- Visitor center and exhibits
- Beach access (ocean)
- Bathhouse
A private concessionaire in the park offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals, as well as guided kayak and paddleboard tours.
Plan Your Visit
Park Hours
Month | Hours |
---|---|
January | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
February | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
March | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
April | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
May | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
June | 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
July | 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
August | 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
September | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
October | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
November | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
December | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
From September to May, open daily, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
From June to August, open daily, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Photo Gallery
Top: Marsh at Hammocks Beach State Park, Visit NC
Gallery: Paddlefest, M. Kane | Great egret, S. McElhone | Dolphins seen from the park ferry, S. Bland | Beach camping at Bear Island, C. Peek | Marsh reflection, R. Evans