Hammocks Beach State Park’s campsites and ferry service on Bear Island will be closed at a minimum through the summer for a major construction project to make necessary water and septic system repairs and replacements.
Currently, there is no potable water or working restrooms at the 4-mile-long Bear Island, one of three islands at Hammocks Beach State Park in Swansboro.
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Campsites on Bear Island are closed to new reservations and the ferry service between the mainland and the island, which normally begins operating in April, will not open until construction is complete, North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation officials announced last week.
Though Bear Island will be closed, park rangers will continue to offer free educational programming.
“We recognize that Bear Island is a popular summer destination for many of our visitors,” State Parks Director Brian Strong said in a statement. “However, the health and safety of our visitors and staff always comes first and foremost. We are excited about the opportunity to enhance the infrastructure on Bear Island, as making these improvements will allow for a better experience when visiting the park for many years to come.”
Campers with existing reservations will be contacted by park staff for alternate options.
In addition, the park is set to open its new campground at the mainland access later this year, and that will include cabins, recreational vehicle campsites and tent camping. Visit the park website for updates on the status of facilities throughout the summer.
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