Trout Channel Spur Trail

FERRY SERVICE to Bear Island is begins May 12, 2021 and will operate on a COVID-19 modified schedule.  Capacity is limited to a maximum of 20 passengers per trip.  Day use passengers depart from the mainland to Bear Island at 9:30am, 10:30am, 11:30am and 12:30pm and tickets will have a set return time in the afternoon.  Campers will depart from the mainland to Bear Island at 2:30pm, 3:30pm, and 4:30pm ferries only.  Beginning May 29, 2021 an additional 5:30pm ferry for campers ONLY will be added to the schedule  through September 6, 2021. COVID-19 ferry protocols will be followed including wearing masks and social distancing.  Please see the ferry schedule for complete information.

Bear Island bathhouse restroom facilities are open with potable (drinkable) water.  The concession stand is closed 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.  Masks must be worn in buildings and social distancing should be practiced. 

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”, May 24 – 28, 2021; 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 – 5pm, gate hours 8am – 6pm. 

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