Ferry service, campsites, and all facilities at Bear Island are closed, mainland access remains open. The Simmons Mainland Campground is open for reservations. There is no public docking on Bear Island and there is no beach access on the mainland.
Most state parks in western North Carolina have reopened at least partially.
Mount Jefferson State Natural Area remains closed. Chimney Rock, Mount Mitchell, and South Mountains are closed long-term until further notice. Visit ncparks.gov/closures for more information on the status of all facilities.
Ferry Service, Campsites, and All Facilities at Bear Island Closed, Mainland Camping Now Open
Major construction project to replace the water and sewer system at Bear Island. No restrooms, potable water, or public docking on Bear Island. No beach access on the mainland. For more information, including answers to frequently asked questions about the closure, visit our blog post.
Hammocks Beach State Park is currently accepting applications for a campground host.
Hosts are volunteers who assist in maintaining the mainland campground. They do not get paid, but they do stay at the host site for free during their hosting term. To apply to be a campground host, click here to email hammocks.beach@ncparks.gov.
Donate to Hurricane Recovery
Please give to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund to help communities recover from Helene Donate Now
Information and Resources on Hurricane Helene
For North Carolina residents and visitors impacted by Hurricane Helene Go Now