Fees/FAQs/Rules

There are no entrance fees to enjoy the park. In addition to park-specific rules, please read the systemwide Park Rules for all North Carolina State Parks.

Fishing

All coastal recreational regulations and licenses apply. A North Carolina Coastal Recreational Fishing License is required for any fisher 16 years of age or older. Return unwanted fish unharmed to the water and do not leave fish scraps on the beach. Fort Fisher SRA is experiencing problems with nest predators such as red fox feeding on turtle and shorebird nests. Leaving food and scraps on the beach attracts predators to areas where they may come into contact with people or feed on endangered and threatended species.

Swimming

Lifeguard service is provided in a designated swim area from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Please obey the warning signs and flags. A green flag indicates relatively calm conditions. A yellow flag indicates rougher conditions and to swim with caution. A red flag indicates severe conditions. Swimming is not permitted under red flag conditions.

Please note that the park has foot rinse stations only and no showers.

Off-road vehicles

Registered vehicles with valid park-issued permits are allowed in the four-wheel-drive access area. (Trailers are NOT allowed to be towed onto the beach). Beach vehicle access permits are available for sale at the park's visitor center daily from 8:00am to 5:00pm with cash, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard and Discover), money orders or personal checks accepted with proper identification. Annual Pass holders are still required to register at office.

Permits are $20 weekdays and $30 weekends. Annual passes are available: an Individual Pass is $75 and a Friends and Family Pass is $125.

Beach wheelchairs

Beach wheelchairs are available for free on a first-come, first-served basis. There are three chairs available from 8:00am to 5:00pm. Please come into the visitor center office and ask staff to assist in getting one for you.

Permits

Event permits. Some events—such as weddings, athletic contests, company parties, etc.—may require a Special Activity Permit. If you're unsure whether such a permit is necessary for your event, call the park office beforehand. You can download a Special Activity Permit application or obtain one from the park office.

Research and collection permits. A permit is required for any project involving the collection, removal or disturbance of any natural or cultural resource of any state park unit and for projects that require placing monitoring equipment in any state park unit. Learn more about research and collection permits or fill out a permit application online.

A $25 fee will be charged for all returned checks.