Planning a camping trip? Few people realize there are 11 beachfront tent camping sites along the secluded island found at Hammocks Beach State Park. If you’re not entirely familiar with this unique state park, it’s split into two sections: one found on the mainland at Swansboro, and additional acreage found on three barrier islands. The park runs a ferry service to the largest of the three islands, Bear Island, which has four miles of pristine beach along the Atlantic – plus a primitive campground only steps from the ocean.

A ferry from the park over in Swansboro carriers visitors back and forth, making this the most secluded beach in the North Carolina State Parks system.
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You'll need to reserve your site in advance. And then pack everything you need for your stay in such a way that it can be easily loaded onto the ferry. A large wagon should do the trick.
Google/Combat Carl
A bonus to being an overnight camper on the island is that you'll have unlimited free rides on the ferry during your stay, but that doesn't mean you want to be running back and forth to purchase items you may have forgotten to pack.
There is a total of 11 individual sites along the beach, with site #11 being the farthest distance from the bathhouse. An additional three group sites are located to the south of the bathhouse.
North Carolina State Parks
And this just may be the most beautiful campground in all of North Carolina!
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All eleven of the sites are carved into the natural flora of the island. But make a note, you won't find shade here, so bring the sunscreen and perhaps an umbrella for shade.
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Some things to know before you go: there are no garbage cans. So plan to tote your waste out with you when you leave.
Google/Alan Holmes
Also, there are power outlets in the bathhouse that you can use to recharge your phone. Most campers and visitors to the island say the cell signal here is satisfactory, but it's not a guarantee that yours will be, too.
Google/Nina Merklina
You might think you want the tent site that is farthest from the bathhouse, but all of the sites are pretty secluded and quiet. Don't be bummed if site #11 is already reserved.
Google/Angie McCaskill
A camping trip to this primitive campground at Hammocks Beach State Park is sure to create memories that last a lifetime.
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Have you camped here before, or even paid a visit to Bear Island to see the pristine, unspoiled Atlantic Ocean paradise? Let us know by leaving a comment!

Learn all about Hammocks Beach State Park, right here. Note: the campsites on this pristine island are closed during king tides. You can see a list of closure dates on the reservations page (link above).

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Hammocks Beach State Park, 1572 State Rd 1511, Swansboro, NC 28584, USA