Park Maps and Brochures:
In June, lifeguards will not be on duty Thursday and Friday; June 14, 2018, June 15, 2018, June 21, 2018, June 22, 2018 and Tuesday, June 26, 2018. Park staff make every effort to ensure lifeguards are on duty in the protected swim area Memorial Day through Labor Day; however, due to circumstances beyond our control and occasionally at the last moment, lifeguards may not be on duty. If you have questions about the status of lifeguards, please contact the park office at hammocks.beach@ncparks.gov or 910.326.4881. Always use extreme caution as rip currents and strong currents can occur at any time. Current information regarding Bear Island and the ferry service can be found under the Hammocks Beach Park News Link.
Posted on: Thursday, June 14, 2018Hammocks Beach State Park offers a variety of learning opportunities for all ages. Typically led by park rangers, these interpretive programs allow the public to gain perspective into what makes North Carolina state parks naturally wonderful.
Most of the events are free, though some require pre-registration. All give park visitors deeper insight into the natural world. Call the park office for more information.
Come out to the park to learn the ins and outs of what makes each tree species unique. You will get a chance to see some neat tricks to identify a tree...just by looking at the wood! Grab a magnifying glass and see for yourself! A pine is not just a pine and an oak is not just an oak. A great chance to build up your detective skills for your next trip out into the forest.
NOTE: PROGRAM IS AT BEAR ISLAND CONCESSION STAND. FERRY TICKET PURCHASE IS REQUIRED TO ATTEND THIS PROGRAM.
TOPIC: CALLING FOR HELP
Are you looking to expanding your outdoor recreational experiences? Come out to the park to learn and discuss about basic paddling safety. This ranger-led talk will show you what to do when you have an emergency on the water.
NOTE: MEET IN VISITOR CENTER AUDITORIUM
Enjoy this ranger-guided trip through the adjacent marsh water as we explore some of the ecosystems which make this part of North Carolina so special. Kayaks, paddles, and lifejackets will be provided. Must be 13 years and older to participate.
Seating is limited; REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED by contacting the park office: (910) 326-4881.
Join a ranger on Bear Island to look, listen, and feel about why the coastal marsh habitat is so important and so unique! We will talk about some of the plants and animals that can be found there including crabs, “spitting” oysters, “dead man’s fingers”, and much more!
NOTE: PROGRAM IS AT BEAR ISLAND CONCESSION STAND. YOU WILL NEED TO PURCHASE A FERRY TICKET TO ATTEND PROGRAM.
Discover the natural and cultural history of sea turtles that inhabit our waters in and around North Carolina during the summer months. You will get a chance to hear about their nesting activities, any natural and human threats, & all the management practices being implemented to protect these gentle sea dwellers.
NOTE: PROGRAM IS AT BEAR ISLAND CONCESSION STAND. YOU WILL NEED TO PURCHASE A FERRY TICKET TO ATTEND PROGRAM.
September - May: 8am - 6pm
June - August: 8am - 7pm
Closed Christmas Day
Park Office
September - May: 8am - 5pm daily
June - August: 8am - 6pm daily
Closed Christmas Day
