Fort Fisher State Recreation Area | Wilmington

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, located in New Hanover County, North Carolina, is a coastal park renowned for its rich history, diverse ecosystems, and recreational opportunities. Situated approximately 18 miles south of Wilmington, the area encompasses 287 acres of protected shoreline and is part of the North Carolina State Parks system .

🏖️ Natural Attractions

Beach Access: The park offers nearly six miles of pristine, undeveloped beach stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Cape Fear River. This shoreline is a vital nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles, with park rangers monitoring and protecting nests during the nesting season .

Basin Trail: A 1.1-mile trail meanders through salt marshes and leads to an observation deck overlooking Zeke's Island and the Cape Fear River. Along the trail, visitors can explore a World War II-era bunker, once inhabited by the "Fort Fisher Hermit," Robert E. Harrill, who lived there from 1955 to 1972 .

Wildlife Viewing: The park's diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife, including piping plovers, other shorebirds, and numerous marine species. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts frequent the area for its rich biodiversity .

🚙 Recreational Activities

Four-Wheel-Drive Beach Access: Fort Fisher is the only state park in North Carolina that permits four-wheel-drive vehicles on the beach. This access allows for surf fishing, beachcombing, and scenic drives along the coastline. A permit is required for vehicle access .

Fishing: Both surf fishing on the four-wheel-drive beach and fishing from the pedestrian beach are popular activities. Anglers can expect to catch species such as bluefish, speckled trout, and pompano .

Swimming: Designated swimming areas are available, with lifeguards on duty during peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day). The waters are generally calm, making it suitable for families .

Paddling: The adjacent Basin offers opportunities for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in its calm waters, ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers .

Hiking: The Basin Trail provides a scenic route through salt marshes, offering views of diverse plant and animal life. The trail is suitable for hikers of all skill levels .

🏛️ Historical Significance

Civil War History: Fort Fisher played a crucial role during the Civil War by protecting the port of Wilmington, the Confederacy's last major open seaport. The fort was the site of two significant battles in 1864 and 1865, culminating in its capture by Union forces in January 1865 .

World War II: During WWII, the area served as a military training site, and remnants of coastal defense structures from this era are still visible within the park .

The Fort Fisher Hermit: Robert E. Harrill, known as the "Fort Fisher Hermit," lived in a World War II bunker in the park from 1955 until his death in 1972. He became a local legend, sharing his philosophy of "common sense" with visitors .

🕒 Visitor Information

Address: 1000 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach, NC 28449

Hours:

Park Office: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Beach Access:

Pedestrian Beach: Open year-round, 24 hours a day

Four-Wheel-Drive Beach: Seasonal hours; typically open 24 hours from October through March, with varying hours from April through September. Specific hours can be found on the NC State Parks website .

Fees:

Day Use: No entrance fee for day use

Four-Wheel-Drive Beach Access: A permit is required for vehicle access; fees apply .

Phone: (910) 458-5798

🌟 Additional Amenities

Picnic Areas: The park offers several picnic tables with grills, providing a perfect spot for family gatherings and meals with ocean views .

Visitor Center: The center provides educational exhibits about the park's natural and historical significance, along with information on current programs and events .

Educational Programs: Fort Fisher hosts various programs throughout the year, including "Shell Strolls," "Turtle Talks," and "Surf Fishing Basics," aimed at educating visitors about the local ecosystem and history .

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and recreational activities, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the southeastern coast of North Carolina.