Future Development

Due to an ease in COVID-19 restrictions, FERRY SERVICE to Bear Island has returned to a normal schedule.  From Saturday May 29, 2021, until Monday September 6, 2021 the ferry will operate 7 days a week. Masks are no longer required on board the ferry. Please see the ferry schedule for complete information.

Bear Island bathhouse restroom facilities are open with potable (drinkable) water.  The concession stand is open for cash only sales daily 10am – 5pm and there are no lifeguards on duty.  Swim at your own risk and use extreme caution as rip currents and strong currents can occur at any time.

Visitor center, exhibit hall, trails, mainland restrooms, and boat ramp are open daily.  The boat ramp will be closed from 9–10am and 2-3pm for ferry re-fueling as well as Mondays and Tuesdays from 9am – 11am for ferry vessel maintenance.  Masks are not required however visitors are encouraged to wear a mask while in park buildings. 

Bear Island is open for day use and Bear Island beachfront and sound side campsites are open for campers.  Sound side campsites are not accessible by ferry and have no access to the bathhouse.  Sound-side campers must have transportation to the island by canoe, kayak, or private boat and must bring all necessities with them. See the Reservations page to make a reservation.  Please note open fires are not permitted anywhere on Bear Island.

Beachside campsites 1-11 will be CLOSED during “King Tide Events”, June 22 – 26, 2021; July 21 – 25, 2021; October 6 – 12, 2021; November 3 – 9, 2021, and December 2 – 7, 2021. A king tide occurs when the sun, earth, and moon align, resulting in exceptionally high tides.  Beach erosion from hurricanes and winter storms, reduced the Bear Island primary dune and during king tides, ocean waves will be at the dunes, restricting access to campsites 1-11 for extended periods of time.

Visitor center hours:  8am – 6pm, gate hours 8am – 7pm. 

Please see the Hammocks Beach Updates Page or www.ncparks.gov/open for additional information.