Hammocks Beach State Park is in Onslow County, about 19 miles southeast of Jacksonville. It has a mainland area and three barrier islands, including the four-mile-long Bear Island. A passenger ferry takes visitors to the pristine beach, where oceanside camping is possible, unique among North Carolina state parks. Visitors can also rent or bring a kayak or canoe to explore marshland and maritime swamp. Camping on the island and mainland is available.