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, & lifejackets will be provided. Must be 13 years & older to participate. Space is limited; registration is required by contacting the park office at 910-326-4881.
Events and Programs
Park Maps and Brochures:
October Ferry Schedule Weekends Only
The October ferry schedule is Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays hourly and departing the mainland from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm and departing Bear Island from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Please see the ferry schedule link for the complete schedule. The last day of ferry service for the year is October 27, 2019. The bathhouse is open through November 15, 2019. The concession stand is closed and there are no lifeguards on duty for the remainder of the 2019 season. All facilities on the mainland are open including the trails, kayak launch, and boat ramp.
Please see Hammocks Beach Updates for additional information.
Events and Programs
Hammocks 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.
Learn about the natural wonders and local history during this 90 to 120 minute interpretive cruise around Bogue Sound, Swansboro and the Hammocks Beach State Park islands. You will discover some of the local wildlife and learn about the unique history of the park and of the Swansboro area.
Cost: monetary donation per passenger benefiting the Friends of Hammocks and Bear Island (FHBI). For more information or to make a reservation, visit FHBI.org.
Date of Event:
Wed, 10/16/2019 - 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Start Location:
Visitor Center
- Who gives a hoot? Join a ranger to learn about some of our owl species, their habitats, and tips of what you can do to help these night watchers. If the weather is good we will take a short walk along the park’s 1/2-mile nature trail and try to call in any of the owls that may nearby. NOTE: Weather dependent; contact park office for program status: 910-326-4881.
Date of Event:
Wed, 10/16/2019 - 6:30pm to 8:00pm
Start Location:
Visitor Center
2019 is the Year of the Snake for North Carolina State Parks! Fall is here, and the weather is cooling down, just in time for our cold-blooded creatures as they become more active prior to a winters rest throughout the park. During this half-mile interpretive hike you will locate and learn to identify the different reptile species that inhabit the woods here at Hammocks Beach State Park. MEET AT VISITOR CENTER NOTE: Bug spray and proper hiking shoes are recommended.
Date of Event:
Sat, 10/19/2019 - 9:00am to 10:00am
Start Location:
Visitor Center
Learn about the natural wonders and local history during this 90 to 120 minute interpretive cruise around Bogue Sound, Swansboro and the Hammocks Beach State Park islands. You will discover some of the local wildlife and learn about the unique history of the park and of the Swansboro area.
Cost: monetary donation per passenger benefiting the Friends of Hammocks and Bear Island (FHBI). For more information or to make a reservation, visit FHBI.org.
Date of Event:
Sat, 10/19/2019 - 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Start Location:
Visitor Center
Contact
910-326-4881
hammocks.beach@ncparks.gov
Addresses
Park office
1572 Hammock Beach Road
Swansboro, NC 28584
GPS: 34.671, -77.1429
Hours
- September to May:
8:00am to 6:00pm
- June to August:
8:00am to 7:00pm
- Closed Christmas Day
- September to May:
8:00am to 5:00pm
daily
- June to August:
8:00am to 6:00pm
daily
- Closed Christmas Day