And youll notice where people have camped in the past. You must take an umbrella if you need shade, because you won't find any on the island! Please note that there is a $6 fee per night to cancel your reservation. Make your camping reservations here. We knew there was a half mile walk to get there, but it was well worth it. Basically if you are on the island then you are allowed on the ferry. The Bear Island concession stand is open for the 2021 season (woohoo!). The only place that I can think of that was comparable for white sands was in Mauritius in the Indian Ocean. State parks are great places for birthday parties, reunions, weddings, and more. I understand there is a good walk to the beach so Id like to pack lightly and with three kids in tow, Id love shade during our trip, No, there is no services on the island other than a snack bar and restrooms. Campers must register at the visitor center on the mainland before going to Bear Island. Camping Near Me: Hoffmaster State Park ehrlif/stock.adobe.com Because the park is set up to accommodate camping, there are plenty of picnic tables and various grills and fire pits to use; you can cook up a delicious meal in the great outdoors. Do not feed the wildlife, including birds. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Discover tiny specimens of marine life in tidal pools and mudflats. We prefer a more secluded spot to a. If you want to stretch your back and relax, check out this chair. Can Dogs Go On The Beach In Emerald Isle Nc? So beautiful and isolated from everything else! Pogies Charters and Rentals is one option to get you around the islands privately. Best beach in NC! The park's main attraction is Bear Island, but we visited in the winter when the ferry is not operating and had our dog with us for the state park passport program. You can see a list of closure dates on the reservations page (link above). Light and simple is the way to travel, as campers must carry all provisions to the campsites from the beach or ferry dock. Here is your guide on how to get there, where to explore, and what activities await! Hammocks Beach is known for its rich history, wonderful wildlife, and of course, its natural beauty. This is an especially interesting destination for history buffs. Improve this listing All photos (146) Top ways to experience nearby attractions I dont know, but cant believe it would a problem; this is a pretty relaxed place. The Grandview Hammock comes in two fun summer patterns and has a 450 lb load capacity. Is 9 am, 9 15 ok? Located at the foot of Bear Island - one of the major attractions of the State Parks for kayakers and canoeists from across the state - Hammocks Beach State Park offers four miles of unspoiled shoreline accessible by ferry or private vehicle. Before you go, review the Bear Island ferry schedule (the schedule may be published as a link to a PDF). From mid-November to mid-March, there is no water at Bear Island, including at the bathhouse. I think weekends had slightly different times. Hi Topsail Island Hammocks Beach State Park is currently accepting applications for all temporary and seasonal positions. 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. The short hike from the ferry to the beach is not too arduous - rewarding the hiker with the most incredible pristine beach imaginable. Hammocks Beach State Park is home to land and water attractions. Pets must be on an attended leash of no longer than 6 feet at all times. 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. Hammocks Beach State Park This camping area features 14 first come first serve campsites perched at an elevation of 12ft in the state of North-Carolina. No refunds are issued for "no-shows," early departures, or cancellations made after the arrival date. You can get to Bear Island on the Hammocks Beach State Park ferry. Most events are free, though some may require pre-registration. Bring breakfast, lunch and dinner. Heading to this beautiful sprawling park is a convenient day trip that will be a hit with the whole family! Read the campsite information on ReserveAmerica to see photos of campsites; check availability and fees; find out whether a specific site is wheelchair accessible, has access to water, bathhouses or pit toilets, or has RV hookups; and learn other important information. A lock icon or https:// means youve safely connected to the official website. The sunrise turns the sky from peach to yellow as you stretch your paddle overhead. I booked on the website 3 weeks out, & everything went smoothly. This is a hidden treasure - only accessible by ferry at limited times of the year. Please use a JavaScript enabled browser in order to access the full functionality of this site. 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. Cast a baited hook into endless rows of foaming breakers. We'll text you when a suitable spot opens up! These campsites are available to organized or affiliated groups only. Round trip rides cost $6 and under in 2020. If you are planning on taking the ferry to Bear Island, please check the availability and schedule on our Ferry Schedule page. Campers are advised to seek shelter in tents or the bathhouse. Hammocks Beach State Park is a located in Swansboro, North Carolina. You cannot cancel a one-night reservation on the same day. Venture to Bear Island and reward yourself with vivid memories of one of the most unspoiled beaches on the Atlantic coast. 1572 Hammocks Beach Rd, Swansboro, NC 28584 PHONE: 910-326-4881 WEBSITE The park's crown jewel, Bear Island, is one of Travel + Leisure's Top Ten NC Beaches, and just a passenger ferry ride or private boat ride away. Visitors can swim in the calm ocean waves or venture further up the estuary creeks filled with exciting wildlife. He intended to will it to his friend, John Hurst, but Hurst convinced him to donate it to the North Carolina Teachers Association. The campground is located out on Bear Island and is only accessible by ferry or boat (kayak, canoe, and paddle board). Bear Islands only permanent fixture is a small picnic area and concessions stand (with bathrooms see Know before you go, below). Kayaking, hiking, and swimming are just a few of the popular pastimes. Park gates are closed and locked at posted closing times for your protection. April and October - Friday through Sunday - 9:30 am - 4:30 pm. Only show listings you can book instantly with no waiting for a Host's confirmation. This diverse state park offers a few easy to moderate miles of trails through sandy beaches and maritime forests. more. We can help! 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. This park is a great introduction to the slow-paced charm of Swansboro, NC. Secluded and tranquil, free from intruding commercialism, Hammocks Beach may not be for everyone, but the island is a retreat for people who welcome the challenges of relentless sun, sand, sea and sky. Page content has changed. But there are maps at intersections and the trails are well blazed. Or, travel by boat or ferry to Bear Island and see what this park's water attraction has to offer. Pets, Carts, Wagons, Kayaks, and Canoes not permitted on ferry vessels. The ferry to Bear Island runs daily through Sept. 6, 2021 (the daily schedule changes after Sept. 6 and service for the season ends on Oct. 31). 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. 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. After a day of exploring, relax and enjoy a picnic lunch with the beautiful views provided by the park. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. bluewater@carolinaretreats.com Remember "what you bring you take back leaving only your footprints!" The group helps provide funding for Junior Ranger and Youth in Parks Environmental Education programs, as well as grants for state parks projects. be aware also it may be a bit of a walk so a rolling cooler is a great idea. 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. Otherwise, the site will be marked as a no-show and will be made available to other campers. Instead, youll find peaceful solitude under the sun. Dont forget a stop at the Park Office visitor center to pick up some information and get oriented. We had plans to go Monday - Tuesday but ferries only operate on Wednesdays? Our app helps you find canceled reservations at Hammocks Beach State Park. The intercoastal waterway provides a scenic boat trip as an alternative route, so be sure to check out local charter services for your trip. For those who enjoy camping, outdoor recreation, and spending time with nature. Instead, youll find peaceful solitude under the sun. Visiting the park can be an unforgettable experience for all who explore its many offerings. Hammocks Beach State Park is a beautiful and serene outdoor paradise just north of North Carolinas Topsail and Pleasure Island coast, near Emerald Isle. Phone: 850-267-8300. Early check-in permitted on day of arrival at visitor center to allow for travel to Bear Island. Please bring potable water with you and take all containers off the island when you leave. So the nature trails were great to take Alex for a hike. You feel refreshed after a night of listening to the waves crash gently on the beach. During World War II, the Coast Guard used Bear Island to monitor German U-boat activity. Ferry tickets purchased at mainland visitor center for $4 to $6 per person. If you leave the park and do not return before closing time, you will not be able to re-enter. About People come to Hammocks Beach State Park for one thingthe beach. Of its 1,500-acres, only 33 are on the mainland. Located near Swansboro, North Carolina, Hammocks Beach State Park is a pristine park that offers wonderful natural scenery and access to a whole host of recreational activities. 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. Early in the 20th century, Dr. William Sharpe, a neurosurgeon of New York, came to Bear Island to hunt. 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. We review cost. Do not enter marked nesting bird areas. Lifeguards are on duty Memorial Day through Labor Day 10:00 am through 5:00 pm daily as staffing allows. Your browser does not support JavaScript! Park Ecology. Our app alerts you when campsites come available . I have a house in nearby Swansboro and when time allows take a trip across to Bear Island (part of Hammocks Beach State Park). From biking and walking trails to swimming, kayaking, and more, theres something for everyone at Hammocks Beach State Park. On the hour is the large boat, on the half hour is the small boat during the week. The parks mainland outpost consists of a full-service visitor center. Just tell us when you'd like to camp at Hammocks Beach State Park, and how long you want to camp for. 2. This trip was so worth it. About the Park. Secluded and tranquil, free from intruding commercialism, Hammocks Beach may not be for everyone, but the island is a retreat for people who welcome the challenges of relentless sun, sand, sea and sky. Camp in your designated campsite. 160 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH 03842, Phone: 603-926-8990 Our experts' top picks for a long weekend getaway for couples: Best caves in the U.S., SD, Galena IL, Boise, St. Pete, San Jose, Taos, Fayetteville, Steamboat Springs, NH, East Coast, DE, GA, Little Rock 9. Santa Rosa Beach FL 32459. The only downside is a 1/2 mile walk fom the ferry dock to the beach (it can be very hot and there isnt any shade). Now, note the ends. Positions range from 3 to 6 months and up to 11 months. Bear Island and Huggins Island also have a long military history. The large parking lot and visitor center looks like it is set up for nothing more than a grassy field and some trees near a residential area. 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. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. 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. And to top it all off, the parks natural beauty is breathtaking. Water and other facilities are available on the island, except from mid-November through mid-March when the facilities are winterized. To learn more, view our full privacy policy. We were told that all 14 camp sites were full for the night, but we scarcely saw another person once we reached our campsite. Look for a hammock at least 8.5 feet long and between 4 and 5 feet wide for a single, or greater than 6 feet wide for a double. Check in required at mainland visitor center during visitor center hours. Do the lifeguards offer umbrella rentals on Bear Island? The stand operates between 10 am and 5 pm, and closes Sept. 6. The trails are relatively easy to traverse and offer great opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. With trails to hike inland and an educational visitor's center with interactive children's exhibits like a digital microscope, you can enjoy the park while on land. 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. 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. You could still reserve a campsite there. You can also recline under the sun and work on your tan with the rotisserie technique. 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. Positions range from 3 to 6 months and up to 11 months. No facilities in the winter. Cash only. Join, volunteer or donate! Please do not approach or disturb sea turtles or their nests. Located on Bear Island, this is a great swimming beach. Jul 10, 2015 - Venture to Bear Island and reward yourself with vivid memories of one of the most unspoiled beaches on the Atlantic coast. To protect themselves, the colonists built forts, one of which was near Bear Inlet in 1749, but it has since disappeared. We are working hard on restoring the content as quickly as possible. State Government websites value user privacy. Bear Island has often played a role in the protection of the mainland. 1572 Hammocks Beach Road People come to Hammocks Beach State Park for one thingthe beach. Campers arriving after final ferry departure must make alternate arrangements to Bear Island or you will NOT be able to Check-In. The ferries doe operation on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Suggest edits to improve what we show. 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. :). Current camp permit with an attached receipt for ferry tickets must be presented at the visitor center to receive ferry tickets at no charge. Fourteen family campsites accommodate up to six people and two tents each. Secure websites use HTTPS certificates. Camping is available on Bear Island through Hammocks Beach State Park. Seabirds fly overhead. Use a camera or paintbrush to capture the green and gold grasses that color the salt marshes. Jacksonville Beach, FL. Sharpe intended to will the property to John Hurst, his longtime hunting guide and friend, but Hurst persuaded him to donate it to the North Carolina Teachers Association, an organization of AfricanAmerican teachers. Those of you interested in a leisurely boat ride can get tickets for the Lady Swan Boat Tour. Camping is permitted on numbered sites only and permits must be obtained from the park office on the mainland. So a rolling cooler is a small picnic area and concessions stand ( bathrooms... 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