Dog-Friendly Fort Fisher State Recreation Area | NC State Parks

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is part of North Carolina State Parks. This seaside park offers many amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a foot washing station. It is a great place for bringing your dog as it allows pets. The park is home to sea turtles and birds. 

It is a perfect park for beach driving. The park has marsh, oceanic beauty, and trees to watch. Visit the historical landmarks of the Fort Fisher Historic Site, the museum, etc.

Discover dog-friendly Fort Fisher State Recreation Area Park, NC! Learn about leash policies, pet-friendly zones, and seasonal guidelines for a safe and enjoyable visit with your furry companion.

Fort Fisher State Park Dog Rules

• Pets must be on a six-foot leash always.
• Owners must keep their pets under control. Unruly or aggressive dogs are not allowed on the beach.
• Owners are requested to pick up after their pets. Dispose of waste in garbage bins. 
• Dogs should be kept on pedestrian trails. They must be refrained from entering swimming beaches and bathhouses. 

About Dog-Friendly Fort Fisher Recreation Area

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is in Hanover County, 18 miles south of Wilmington. It is the only North Carolina park that allows four-wheeler beach driving. The park has miles of beaches, salt marsh, trails, and an observational deck overlooking Zeke’s Island.

This park is ideal for beach driving, surf fishing, hiking, swimming, paddling, fishing, etc. People can host their special events at the state park. This park also provides a great opportunity for learning with its interactive learning guides and facilities.

The live oak tree of Fort Fisher is a beautiful attraction of this historical coastal site. It is also perfect for people eager to watch sea turtles nest and for birdwatching. The park’s nearest campground is located at Carolina Beach State Park.

• Fees: free
• Amenities: Beach access, foot rinse station, picnic areas, restrooms.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area Park Rules

• Alcoholic beverages are forbidden on the park premises.
• Parkgoers must clean up after themselves. Littering is prohibited on the park premises.
• Drones and unmanned aircraft are forbidden.
• Metal detectors are disallowed.
• Harming the park’s natural resources is an offense. People can obtain permits beforehand for research purposes.
• Open fires and overnight camping on the sand are disallowed.

Park Hours For Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

• January, February, November, December – 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• March and October – 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• April, May, and September – 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• June, July, and August – 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Fort Fisher Recreation Area Park Office

The park office is at 1000 Loggerhead Road, open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Christmas Day.

Is Fort Fisher Beach Dog-Friendly?

Yes, pets are welcome here. They must be on a leash of at least six feet. Owners must clean up after their furry friends and restrict them from going to pet-free zones.

Fort Fisher Recreation Area Beaches

Fort Fisher is known for its miles of sandy shores, which offer a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean. People can spend hours on the beach at Fort Fisher. The tranquil waters of the ocean surround this park. The nearest beach to the park is Kure Beach. 

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area Trail

Fort Fisher’s 5 miles of beach are great for taking a stroll on a nice day. The Basin trail leads voyagers to the World War 2 bunker. The trail goes through the marsh with lots of trees and ends on the observational deck, where visitors can see Zeke’s Island.

Fort Fisher Beach Driving

This is the only North Carolina state park that allows four-mile four-wheel beach driving. A permit is required for access to the area. Permits can be purchased only from the park office located at 1000 Loggerhead Road. Authorities offer both day-use and annual permits. 

Fort Fisher Beach 4X4 Driving Rules

• Drivers must carry a valid license.
• A registered and insured vehicle is required.
• Only four-wheel motorized vehicles are allowed. UTVs and ATVs are disallowed on the beach.
• Avoid turtle and bird nesting areas.
• Drive only in the designated four-mile beach portion.
• Drivers are advised to follow the speed limit of 15 miles per hour.

5 Places to Visit and Things to Do at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

1. North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

Marvel at beautiful sea creatures at the Fort Fisher Aquarium located in the state park. Tickets can be reserved beforehand. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

2. Fort Fisher State Historic Site

Learn about the Civil War and Fort Fisher’s significance at the Historic Site. Admission is free. It is open Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

3. North Carolina Military History Museum

This museum is located in the Lakeslee Air Force Recreation Area. Here, you can learn about North Carolina’s military past. Uniforms, weapons, and equipment are showcased here.

4. Fort Fisher State Recreation Area Classroom

The place is perfect for teaching groups or students about nature. Classes or groups can be hosted here for excursions or field trips. 

Conclusion

Fort Fisher State Recreation Park is a great place for vacation. People can enjoy various water activities, such as swimming, paddling, and kayaking. They can catch fish, sunbathe, or take a nice stroll. The park is great for a family vacation spot.

Dog Beaches Near Fort Fisher State Recreation Area Park, NC

• Kure Beach
• Atlantic Beach, North Carolina
• Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
• Wrightsville Beach
• Caswell Beach, North Carolina
• North Topsail Beach, North Carolina
• Surf City Beach, North Carolina
• Kill Devil Hills Beach, North Carolina
• Nags Head Beach, North Carolina
• Kitty Hawk Beach, North Carolina
• Corolla Beach, North Carolina
• Bald Head Island, North Carolina
• Holden Beach, North Carolina
• Oak Island Dog Beach, North Carolina
• Sunset Beach