Hammocks Beach State Park
00 review1572 Hammocks Beach Rd, Swansboro, North Carolina, 28584, United States
Hammocks Beach State Park
$6.00 - $13.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $13 per night for Bear Island primitive camping, while ferry rides to Bear Island cost $6 per person.
About this campground
Where pristine barrier islands meet the Atlantic, Hammocks Beach State Park invites adventurers to choose their own coastal camping journey. Whether you prefer the convenience of mainland drive-up sites or the raw beauty of primitive beach camping on Bear Island, this coastal gem delivers unforgettable experiences. As one visitor raved, 'The privacy of the beach and the easy ferry access made this a great place for summer day trips too!' The park seamlessly blends accessibility with untouched wilderness, offering a rare escape where sea turtles nest and dolphins play just offshore.
Hammocks Beach State Park offers two distinct camping experiences: primitive beach camping on Bear Island and traditional drive-up camping at Simmons Mainland Campground.
Historical SignificanceStep aboard the ferry and journey through time as well as water. The visitor center and onboard lectures unveil the remarkable story of these barrier islands—from Native American fishing camps to a unique chapter in African American history when Dr. William Sharpe gifted the land to the North Carolina Teachers Association. As one enchanted visitor noted, 'The story of the island is fantastic too. Make sure to swing by the restrooms and read about it.' Every corner of the park whispers tales of resilience, community, and the enduring bond between people and this spectacular coastline.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Hammocks Beach in different colors. Winter brings crisp, dry days perfect for beachcombing without the crowds or bugs. Summer transforms the islands into a warm, sultry paradise where afternoon thunderstorms provide dramatic sky shows and welcome relief from the humidity. Spring and fall offer the sweet spots—moderate temperatures ideal for paddling the marshes, with just enough rain to keep the maritime forests lush and green. Pack layers and prepare for nature's moods, but know that every season reveals its own coastal magic.
ElevationThese barrier islands rest at sea level, where the rhythm of the tides sets the pace of life and the horizon stretches endlessly in all directions.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a coastal ecosystem where salt marshes shimmer like emerald seas and maritime swamp forests create shadowy sanctuaries for wildlife. This is what visitors call 'raw natural beauty and environment'—miles of unspoiled beach where ghost crabs scuttle at twilight, tidal creeks perfect for kayaking adventures, and hiking trails that wind through ancient maritime forests. Whether you're hunting for perfect shells, paddling through mirror-calm marshes at sunrise, or simply watching pelicans dive for dinner, the landscape offers endless opportunities for discovery and wonder.
Geological RegionNestled in North Carolina's East District, this coastal treasure encompasses both mainland camping areas and three magnificent barrier islands. Here, the forces of wind and water have sculpted a dynamic landscape where maritime swamp forests give way to sweeping salt marshes, and pristine beaches stretch as far as the eye can see. This ever-changing environment represents one of the Atlantic Coast's most intact barrier island ecosystems, where nature's processes continue uninterrupted and each tide brings new treasures to explore.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park offers a golf cart shuttle service for those unable to make the half-mile walk from the ferry dock to Bear Island's beach. "They got a golf cart, and they will take you to the beach," one reviewer mentioned.
Sites SizePrimitive sites on Bear Island are secluded and located on the beach. Sites at Simmons Mainland Campground offer traditional drive-up camping with no specific size details provided.
Sites PrivacySites on Bear Island are described as secluded with private beach access. Mainland sites offer less detail about privacy.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommendations include packing lightly for Bear Island camping due to walking and paddling challenges. "Plan on about an hour paddle over. The water is very shallow at or around low tide."
Best CampsitesSite 13 on Bear Island is highlighted for its secluded location on top of a dune offering privacy and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Check-in at 3 PM and check-out at noon. Maximum stay limits are not defined.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Specific guest count per campsite is not described.
Groups
No group-specific camping details were provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutBear Island camping sites are widely spaced with private trails leading to the beach. Mainland sites are drive-up.
Open and Closed SeasonVisitor center and park gates are open year-round, gates open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (year-round) and extended to 7:00 PM Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can likely be made through the official North Carolina State Parks website (ncparks.gov). Specific third-party platforms are not mentioned.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned, suggesting reservations are preferred.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy is not detailed. User reviews suggest potential issues with refunding when ferry schedules impact camping reservations.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hammocks Beach State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, kayaking, paddle boating, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can explore unique coastal ecosystems, enjoy shelling on Bear Island's beaches, or attend educational programs. The ferry to Bear Island adds an adventurous element.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities at Hammocks Beach State Park include trails on the mainland and Bear Island. During winter, the trails are particularly enjoyable due to the absence of bugs. "We visited in the winter, which was perfect for the trails. No bugs!" stated one reviewer.Fishing
Fishing is allowed, and Bear Island is noted as a good location for it. Some reviewers mentioned the quality of fishing but did not provide specifics on fish types.Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity on Bear Island, with lifeguards present during the summer. Visitors also enjoy the pristine and less crowded beaches. "The beach is beautiful, and there were lifeguards on duty," mentioned one review.Boating
Boating is a key feature of the park, with a ferry service to Bear Island, kayak rentals, and opportunities for paddle boating. "We took our own kayaks and paddled to Bear Island, about 2.5 miles away," wrote one user.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with frequent sightings of birds, fish, crabs, and even occasional blacktip reef sharks. "We saw birds, deer, fish, crabs, and a little too close to two blacktip reef sharks!" noted one visitor.Beach activities
Bear Island offers pristine beaches ideal for shelling, sunbathing, and swimming. "The shelling is fantastic! Haven’t found anywhere better," one user mentioned.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park features interpretive programs and exhibits at the visitor center. Some visitors appreciated the historical and environmental education offered.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as hiking are popular due to the absence of bugs and cooler temperatures.Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are available. Visitors can rent equipment or bring their own to explore the marshlands and maritime forests.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Open fires are not permitted on Bear Island.
- Quiet hours are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal bugs, biting black flies, mosquitoes, fire ants, and no-see-ums are noted by campers. Low tide may create paddling challenges for kayakers.
Active alertsUser review mentions ferry cancellations affecting access to Bear Island. Additional active alerts are null.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 91%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
9103264881 represents both the Direct Line and Ranger Station, providing emergency assistance. The nearest hospital and police station information is null.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day is noted as a peak season period.
Trash and recyclingBear Island requires visitors to pack out all trash as there are no trash facilities. The mainland appears to have trash and recycling facilities near the visitor center.
Proximity to water featuresBear Island features direct access to the Atlantic Ocean, marshes, and shallow waters.
Common complaintsBug sprays were ineffective against biting insects, and ferry cancellations impacted camping plans.
HostPark rangers and volunteers are described as "knowledgeable and friendly".
Campground Map
1572 Hammocks Beach Rd, Swansboro, North Carolina, 28584, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-95, take I-40 east to NC 24. Follow NC 24 east through Jacksonville to Swansboro. Turn right onto Hammocks Beach Road. Simmons Campground, 1/4 mile on the right. Turn right about 500 feet before the end of the road for the park main entrance and ferry dock.
The roads to the campground are paved and well-maintained, with no seasonal closures noted. Access to Bear Island requires ferry service or personal watercraft, and ferry service schedules may vary by season.Nearby places
Jacksonville (19 miles southeast), Swansboro (few miles), Cape Carteret, Emerald Isle.
Nearby supplies
Swansboro is a nearby town offering supplies, groceries, dining, and shopping. Additional information on fuel and camping supplies locations is null.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Hammocks Beach State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Visitors generally praise Hammocks Beach State Park for its natural beauty, clean facilities, and the unique experience of camping on Bear Island. Highlights include pristine beaches, friendly staff, and the ferry service. However, some issues like bugs and ferry-related inconveniences were noted.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes the park's pristine beaches, excellent shelling opportunities, clean facilities, and friendly staff. Users also appreciated the unique ferry service and the secluded nature...
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Common Concerns
Negative feedback highlighted issues such as biting insects (e.g., black flies and no-see-ums), the lack of trash bins on Bear Island, and occasional overcrowding of the ferry. Some visitors also...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include bringing bug spray and mosquito nets, planning ferry trips early to avoid crowds, and packing lightly for beach camping. One user suggested, "Bring everything you'll need,"...
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Seasonal Insights
Winter is noted as bug-free, making it a great time for hiking. Summer reviews highlight the swimming and lifeguarded beaches but also mention high insect activity. Spring and fall offer mild...
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Camper Quotes
"The beaches are only dotted with beachgoers, and that’s by design. It’ll NEVER get crowded." "Bring bug spray and a mosquito net." "The bathhouse is always clean and tidy, although a long walk!"
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 13 on Bear Island is noted for being on top of a dune, with users mentioning the need to pack light and plan for tides and wind. Several users mentioned the secluded nature of the Bear Island...
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Accessibility Features
The golf cart shuttle for those unable to walk to the beach was praised. "If you’re handicapped, that’s not gonna stop you; come on because they got a golf cart," said one visitor.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on Bear Island but cannot be transported via the state ferry. "Dogs aren’t allowed on the ferry for whatever reason, but they are allowed on the island if you bring them by private...
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Last updated August 10, 2025