Facility Status
Open
Open
Open Daily
Mon - Wed Hourly, Thurs - Sun Every 30 minutes from 9:30a.m. first departure from mainland, 6:00p.m. last departure from Bear Island
Open
About the Park
Located in Onslow County 19 miles southeast of Jacksonville, Hammocks Beach State Park comprises a mainland area and three barrier islands, including the 4-mile-long Bear Island. A passenger ferry transports visitors to the pristine beach that provides an opportunity to camp oceanside — an experience unique amongst North Carolina's state parks. Alternatively, visitors can rent or bring their own kayak or canoe for a closer exploration of the marshlands and maritime swamp forests that surround the park's island areas.
Camping
- Tent sites (backpacking via ferry or paddle-in)
- Group tent sites (for organized groups only, backpacking via ferry)
- Showers
Activities
- Hiking (2.3 miles of trails at the mainland; 4 miles of beach)
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Picnicking
Amenities
- Boat ramp
- Concession stand (seasonal)
- Auditorium
- Gazebo and picnic shelter
- Visitor center and exhibits
- Beach access (ocean)
- Bathhouse
A private concessionaire in the park offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals, as well as guided kayak and paddleboard tours.
Plan Your Visit
Park Hours
| Month | Hours |
|---|---|
| January | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
| February | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
| March | 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
| April | 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
| May | 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
| June | 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
| July | 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
| August | 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
| September | 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
| October | 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
| November | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
| December | 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
From September to May, open daily, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
From June to August, open daily, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Photo Gallery
Top: Marsh at Hammocks Beach State Park, Visit NC
Gallery: Paddlefest, M. Kane | Great egret, S. McElhone | Dolphins seen from the park ferry, S. Bland | Beach camping at Bear Island, C. Peek | Marsh reflection, R. Evans