🌤 Weather at Masonboro Island Reserve by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 44–80 °F | 69–90 °F | 44–84 °F | 36–60 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Wilmington 7 SE, 2 mi away, elevation 30 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏝️ Boat-Only Barrier Island — 8.4-mile, 5,653-acre island reserve between Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach, part of the NC Coastal Reserve
Masonboro Island Reserve is an undeveloped barrier island of about 8.4 miles between Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach in New Hanover County, about five miles southeast of Wilmington. With 5,653 acres it is the largest site of the North Carolina National Estuarine Research Reserve, managed by the NC Coastal Reserve in the Division of Coastal Management of the NC Department of Environmental Quality in partnership with NOAA. North Carolina State Parks also lists 106 acres of the island as a state natural area. The island is reachable only by boat (NC DEQ, as of October 2026).
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Between Masonboro Inlet and Carolina Beach Inlet, New Hanover County, NC |
| Size | 5,653 acres; 87% salt marsh and tidal flats |
| Access | By boat only; private ferries from Wrightsville Beach |
| Open | Year-round |
| Camping | Primitive camping, at most two consecutive nights |
| Managed by | NC Coastal Reserve, Division of Coastal Management (NC DEQ), with NOAA |
| Designated | 1991 as a component of the NC National Estuarine Research Reserve |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Masonboro Island?
Only by boat. Public and private ramps are in and near Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach and New Hanover County’s Trails End Park, and commercial ferries run from Wrightsville Beach for a fee.
Can I camp on Masonboro Island?
Yes. Primitive camping is allowed for no more than two consecutive nights, only at previously used sites and not on the dunes. Pack out everything you bring.
Are dogs and fires allowed?
Dogs must be on a leash. Fires are allowed only on open sand at least 15 feet from vegetation; fireworks are prohibited.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Carolina Beach State Park (a short drive away) or Fort Fisher State Recreation Area (a short drive away).
🏝️ Visit Masonboro Island Reserve
Access, camping rules and the new paddle trail from the NC Coastal Reserve.
About Masonboro Island Reserve
Masonboro Island was mostly privately owned during the 20th century. In 1991 it became the fourth component of the North Carolina National Estuarine Research Reserve, and it is also a dedicated state nature preserve. The Intracoastal Waterway runs along its western side.
Things to Do
Land on the sound-side beaches, walk the ocean beach, camp, fish and watch birds. A new paddle trail, laid out in summer 2026, forms a 2.5-mile loop marked in orange and takes about one to two and a half hours. Hunting is allowed under state and local rules; visitors enter at their own risk.
Insider Tips
Leave no trace: Personal items may not stay on the island for more than 48 hours. Keep it quiet: Generators and amplified music are not allowed. Groups: Organized events and commercial activities need written permission from the reserve.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall: Migrating birds and milder weather. Summer: Beach camping and paddling; give nesting shorebirds and sea turtles a wide berth.
Wildlife & Nature
Loggerhead and green sea turtles nest on the beach, and American oystercatchers, black skimmers, Wilson’s plovers and least terns breed here. More than 250 bird species have been recorded, and bottlenose dolphins are common in the surrounding waters (NC DEQ).
Nearby Attractions
Wrightsville Beach — ferries and boat ramps at the north end. Carolina Beach State Park and Fort Fisher State Recreation Area — a short drive from Wilmington.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Masonboro Island Reserve
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are permitted in all North Carolina state parks as long as they are on an attended leash and under the constant control of the owner.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Attended leash or other restraint no longer than 6 feet required at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted at swim areas or in bathhouses
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are strictly prohibited from entering any building, including cabins; no pet-friendly cabin program
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Not all campgrounds allow pets (contact the park office first); pets must be confined to tent or vehicle during quiet hours (10 p.m.-7 a.m.); at Hammocks Beach visitors must arrange their own transportation for pets to Bear Island
Are dogs allowed at Masonboro Island Reserve?
Pets are permitted in all North Carolina state parks as long as they are on an attended leash and under the constant control of the owner. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via ncparks.gov. More: North Carolina state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Map
Plan your gear for Masonboro Island Reserve
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
