Information
Landmark: Fort Fisher State Recreation AreaCity: Wilmington
Country: USA North Carolina
Continent: North America
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, Wilmington, USA North Carolina, North America
Overview
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, in innovative Hanover County, North Carolina, stretches along the coast with windswept dunes, a storied past, lively wildlife, and plenty of ways to play, then about 18 miles south of Wilmington, this stretch of coast covers 287 acres of protected shoreline, where waves roll in under the care of the North Carolina State Parks system.đď¸ Natural Attractions Beach Access : The park offers nearly six miles of pristine, undeveloped beach stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Cape Fear River, moderately đď¸ Natural Attractions Beach Access: The park boasts almost six miles of untouched shoreline, where soft sand runs from the rolling Atlantic waves all the way to the calm waters of the Cape Fear River, as well as loggerhead sea turtles rely on this shoreline to lay their eggs, and during nesting season, park rangers watch over each sandy mound, guarding it from harm.The Basin Trail winds for 1.1 miles through whispering salt marsh grass, ending at an observation deck with sweeping views of Zekeâs Island and the Cape Fear River, simultaneously as you follow the trail, you'll come across a World War IIâera bunker, once home to the Fort Fisher Hermit, Robert E, where the air still smells faintly of salt and rust.Interestingly, Harrill called the location home from 1955 until 1972, years when the porch creaked under his boots, while wildlife Viewing: The parkâs mix of sandy shores, marshes, and open water draws piping plovers, flocks of other shorebirds, and plenty of marine life glinting beneath the waves.đ 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.Birdwatchers and nature lovers flock here for the rich mix of life, from glowing warblers in the trees to dragonflies skimming the pond, while fort Fisher is the only state park in North Carolina where you can drive a four-wheel vehicle right onto the sand, tires crunching over seashells as the waves roll in.With this access, you can cast a line from the shore, wander the sand in search of shells, or take a gradual drive beside the shimmering coastline, equally important youâll need a permit to drive in, even if itâs just to drop off a box.Fishingâs a favorite here-whether youâre casting from the pedestrian beach or standing on the fourâwheelâdrive stretch with the surf foaming around your boots, meanwhile anglers can scan forward to reeling in bluefish, speckled trout, and pompano, their scales flashing silver in the sun.You can swim in designated areas, and during the busy season-from Memorial Day to Labor Day-lifeguards keep watch, whistles at the ready, equally important the water stays mostly calm, with gentle ripples that make it perfect for families.Paddling: Just next door, the Basinâs calm, glassy water invites both beginners and seasoned paddlers to kayak or try stand-up paddleboarding.đď¸ 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, moreover hiking the Basin Trail takes you through quiet salt marshes, where you might spot herons lifting off and wildflowers luminous against the grass.This trail works for everyone, whether youâre a first-timer or a seasoned trekker, and youâll pass wildflowers brushing your boots along the way.đď¸ Fort Fisher was vital in the Civil War, guarding Wilmingtonâs port-the Confederacyâs last major gateway to the sea-against the roar of Union cannons, as well as two major battles raged at the fort in 1864 and 1865, ending when Union troops seized it on a freezing January day in 1865.During World War II, the area was used for military training, and you can still spot weathered concrete gun emplacements tucked among the trees in the park.đ 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, in addition robert E, known as the Fort Fisher Hermit.Harrill, the âFort Fisher Hermit,â made his home in a damp World WarâŻII bunker tucked inside the park, living there from 1955 until he died in 1972, while he turned into a local legend, telling visitors his plainspoken âcommon senseâ ideas over coffee at the timeworn diner.đ Visitor Information - Youâll find us at 1000 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach, NC 28449.Just so you know, The park office welcomes guests daily from 8 a.m, alternatively to 5 p.m. If Iâm being honest, Pedestrian beach access stays open year-round, day and night, with the sound of waves in the murky, while four-wheel-drive beach access runs 24 hours from October to March, then shifts to seasonal hours between April and September.You can check the NC State Parks website for the exact hours-like when the gates swing open at sunrise, in turn day use is free, but driving your 4WD onto the beach requires a permit-and that comes with a fee.
Author: Tourist Landmarks
Date: 2025-10-03
