Bear Island Current Information
Click here prior to your visit to Hammocks Beach State Park for the latest information on the ferry and amenities at Bear Island.
Park News
Park Maps and Brochures:
Upcoming Events:
Saturday, December 15, 2018 - 2:00pm
Monday, December 17, 2018 - 10:00am
Saturday, December 29, 2018 - 9:00am
Mainland Area, Bear Island Re-opened Day Use Only
The visitor center and the mainland area reopened on October 1, 2018. The 0.5-mile loop TRACK Trail on the mainland reopened on October 20, 2018. The kayak launch is closed, and kayak trails remain closed. The boat ramp remains closed. Bear Island is open for day use only. Huggins Island and Jones Island are both closed. There is no ferry service for the rest of the season. All campsites closed through December 31, 2018. Please see Bear Island Current Information for campsite reopening information.
Last updated on: Wednesday, October 24, 2018Park News
Each of North Carolina’s state parks has special events during the year and news about facilities, trails, staff and park supporters. And, visitors are frequently finding new ways to explore a park’s unique cultural and natural resources. Check these pages to keep abreast of the news at your favorite parks.
Ask a Ranger: Maggie the Dolphin
Ranger Renee Evans talks about her discovery of a dolphin that washed up on the shores of Bear Island and the steps her and others are taking to use the dolphin's skeleton as an educational tool for Hammocks Beach State Park.
Ask a Ranger: Water Safety
Our guest for this episode of the Ask a Ranger Podcast is the stupendous Ranger Jake from Hammocks Beach State Park. In this episode, we cover the basics of what you need to have a safe and fantastic trip on your next canoe, kayak or paddleboard excursion.
Ask a Ranger: Here Fishy, Fishy
During this episode, we discuss the North Carolina State Parks education theme for 2018 — the year of the FISH!!! We talk with Ranger Brian Swanson about fish and fun crafts you can do with — you guessed it — FISH! Who knew there were crafts you can do with actual fish?
Ask a Ranger: Camping
The peace of the woods, the crackle of the campfire, trying different s'mores recipes — who amongst us doesn't love camping? From its past as a necessary part of exploration to its present status as an excursion and break from our daily lives, camping is something that is held near and dear by most people who do it. Whether you enjoy camping in a van or living out of a backpack for a week, camping is personal and treasured by us all. In this podcast, we discuss everything from wearing socks while sleeping to a perfect camping environment. Join Rangers Jess and Crystal and guest Ranger Brian as we discuss the finer side of camping and maybe even share a couple of our favorite camping hacks to make your experience even better.
Contact:
1573 Hammocks Beach Road
Swansboro, NC 28584
910-326-4881
hammocks.beach@ncparks.gov
GPS: 34.671, -77.1429
PARK HOURS:
- September to May:
8:00am to 6:00pm
- June to August:
8:00am to 7:00pm
Closed Christmas Day
VISITOR CENTER:
- September to May:
8:00am to 5:00pm
daily
- June to August:
8:00am to 6:00pm
daily
Closed Christmas Day