Topics Related to Hammocks Beach State Park

Eco-Cruise

Join a ranger on a guided cruise through the estuary.

Painted Buntings

Bring binoculars and join our ranger to learn tips in spotting the Painted Bunting.

Box Turtle Trek

Join a ranger in this educational program on the Eastern Box Turtle.

Hammocks Beach State Park Ferry Service to Bear Island to Resume May 14

The seasonal ferry service to Bear Island from the mainland access of Hammocks Beach State Park will begin May 14, 2025.

Status of Facilities as of June 3, 2025

Ferry service operating daily, campsites and all facilities at Bear Island are open. The mainland areas are open. The boat ramp is open, and 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.

New State Law Provides Free State Parks Annual Passes for Veterans with Disabilities

Veterans with service-related disabilities are now eligible to apply to receive a free Annual Pass to North Carolina State Parks.

North Carolina State Parks to Offer 'Kayaking 101' Classes with American Canoe Association, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Carolina Beach, Hammocks Beach, Hanging Rock, Jockey's Ridge, Jones Lake, Lake James, Lake Norman, Morrow Mountain, and Pilot Mountain state parks; Falls Lake State Recreation Area; and Salmon Creek State Natural Area are hosting the paddling instruction events for National Safe Boating Week 2024.

Office of State Archaeology to Hold Rescheduled Town Hall Meeting in Swansboro Sept. 14

The Office of State Archaeology is holding a town hall meeting to discuss a federally funded project that will conduct survey and research at Hammocks Beach State Park.

Ranger Jake Vitak Recognized by DPR Interpretation and Education Council

Ranger Jake Vitak at Hammocks Beach State Park was recognized by the Division for his exemplary efforts in providing a kayak safety course as part of a partnership with the American Canoe Association and several other agencies.

‘Kayaking 101’ Instruction to be Offered by North Carolina State Parks, American Canoe Association, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Several North Carolina state parks, in partnership with the North Carolina chapter of the American Canoe Association (ACA) and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, will offer low-cost kayaking instruction at state parks statewide Saturday, May 20.