Hammocks Beach State Park
North Carolina

Hammocks Beach State Park

Available Activities
  • Camping
  • Swimming
  • Kayaking
  • Paddling
  • canoeing
  • Beach
Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated February 2026

Hammocks Beach State Park offers ferry access to Bear Island—one of the most pristine, undeveloped barrier islands on the Atlantic coast!

⚠️ Ferry service resumes May 14, 2025 after construction project. Book early—no advance reservations available!

Ferry to Bear Island

InfoDetails
🎫 Adults (13-61)$10 roundtrip
👶 Kids (3-12) / Seniors$5
Hours9:30am–5/6pm
🐕 PetsNOT allowed on ferry

Island Camping

Primitive tent sites on Bear Island! $20/night. Carry all gear from ferry dock. Reservations open May 1, 2025.

Undeveloped Beach

4-mile pristine barrier island. Bathhouse, picnic area, seasonal concession. Golf cart shuttle for those unable to walk 0.5mi to beach.

FAQ

Can I kayak to Bear Island?

Yes! Bring your own kayak or canoe—explore 1,500+ acres of marshlands and maritime forest!

🏝️ NC’s Undeveloped Paradise

Visit NC State Parks.

Location & Getting There

Hammocks Beach State Park is located in North Carolina. The park’s coordinates are 34.6711, -77.1427. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.

Quick Facts

  • Location: North Carolina
  • Coordinates: 34.6711, -77.1427
  • Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
  • Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)

Things to Do

North Carolina parks span Great Smoky Mountains to Outer Banks. Activities include hiking Blue Ridge trails, swimming at beaches, fishing mountain streams, rock climbing at Pilot Mountain, kayaking whitewater rivers, and exploring Civil War and colonial history.

Best Time to Visit

Spring brings wildflowers, fall delivers Blue Ridge foliage peaking mid-October. Summer is ideal for coastal parks. Winter is mild at the coast and cold in mountains.

Visitor Tips

North Carolina state parks are free to enter. Arrive before 10 AM on fall weekends at popular parks. Ticks prevalent in all seasons. Dogs allowed on most trails but not at swimming areas.

Explore More North Carolina State Parks

Hammocks Beach State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in North Carolina. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in North Carolina guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.

State Parks Team
Written by

State Parks Team

Editorial Team

The State Parks Team is a group of outdoor enthusiasts, researchers, and travel writers dedicated to showcasing America's state parks. Drawing on collective experience visiting parks in all 50 states, the team creates detailed guides, curated park lists, and practical tips to help visitors make the most of their state park adventures. Our mission: making America's state parks accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Last updated: February 20, 2026

Park Location