Reservable Facilities

Status of Park Facilities as of May 3, 2022

May ferry service to Bear Island operates Wednesday through Sunday hourly from 9:30 until 4:30. Please see the 2022 ferry schedule link for the complete schedule of departure days and times. Ferry tickets are sold in person on a first-come, first-served basis; there are no reservations for the ferry. Tickets can sell out early in the day on weekends. Arrive early in the day to purchase tickets.

Visitor center, exhibit hall, trails, restrooms, and the boat ramp are open daily. Masks are optional in all park buildings.

2022 Annual passes are available at the visitor center for $90. Good for up to 6 ferry tickets or boat ramp use per day.

Bear Island bathhouse restroom facilities are open daily with potable (drinkable) water.

Beachside and sound side campsites are open. Beachside campsites can be accessed by ferry, when operating, canoe, kayak or private boat. Sound side campsites are accessible only by canoe, kayak or private boat. Please see the Reservations page to make a reservation. Open fires are not permitted anywhere on Bear Island.

The concession stand is CLOSED and will re-open along with lifeguards on duty Memorial Day weekend. Please swim at your own risk and use extreme caution as rip currents and strong currents can occur at any time.

Visitor center hours: 8am – 5pm, Gate Hours 8am – 6pm.

Last updated on: Tuesday, May 3, 2022

Contact the park

910-326-4881

hammocks.beach@ncparks.gov

Address

Visitor center

1572 Hammock Beach Road
Swansboro, NC 28584

GPS: 34.6710, -77.1429

Hours

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September to May:
8:00am to 6:00pm
June to August:
8:00am to 7:00pm
Closed Christmas Day

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September to May:

Open daily:
8:00am to 5:00pm

June to August:

Open daily:
8:00am to 6:00pm

Closed Christmas Day

Ferry

► FERRY SCHEDULE 2022

► FERRY TICKET SALES AND BOARDING PROCEDURE INFORMATION

Facilities for rent

In addition to campsites, you can reserve the following facilities at this park:

Please note that some events and activities may require a Special Activity Permit in addition to the fee for use of the facility. Please contact the park office to determine if a Special Activity Permit is required and for the fees associated with the permit.

Gazebo

The gazebo with two picnic tables accomodates 30 people seated with tables and bench along the sides, or 100 people without seating using the lawn area. There is no electricity available in the gazebo area. Restrooms, water fountain and drink machine are nearby. Reservations are required. Please call the park for more information.

Auditorium

The auditorium accommodates 75 people, or 30 people with tables. Audiovisual equipment is available for rent. Restrooms, water fountain and drink machine are nearby. Reservations are required. Please call the park for more information.