Hammocks Beach State Park

Located in Onslow County 19 miles southeast of Jacksonville, Hammocks Beach State Park comprises a mainland area and three barrier islands, including the 4-mile-long Bear Island. A seasonal passenger ferry transports visitors to the pristine beach that provides an opportunity to swim, surf, look for shells, and fish. Alternatively, visitors can rent or bring their own kayak or canoe for a closer exploration of the marshlands and maritime swamp forests that surround the park's island areas. The park offers two distinct camping experiences, primitive beach camping on Bear Island and more traditional drive-up camping on the mainland.

Nearby: A few miles away are the towns of Swansboro, Cape Carteret, and Emerald Isle; featuring a downtown historic district, summertime outdoor concerts, sunset and marsh cruises in Bogue Sound, golfing, arcade, bowling, go carts, sky trail, along with drive to beaches. Each town offers unique dining, and shopping experiences.