Fort Macon State Park

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A tourist reads an informative plaque inside the Fort structure. August 2002

Fort Macon State Park is a state park of the U.S. state of North Carolina. Located near Atlantic Beach, it opened in 1936. Fort Macon State Park is the most visited state park in North Carolina, with an annual visitation of 1.3 Million, despite being the 3rd smallest park in NC with 389 acres. The Battle of Fort Macon was fought there during March and April of 1862.

In addition to the fully restored fort, the park offers visitors both soundside and surf fishing, nature trails, Ranger guided tours, a protected swim area, a refreshment stand, and a bathhouse. With the exception of the bathhouse, there are no fees to enjoy the park.

The park is open year round and does not charge an admission or parking fee. During the non-summer months the protected swimming area, refreshment stand, and bathhouse are not available. However, you can swim at your own risk and public restrooms are open year round.

Fort Macon State Park also completely surrounds United States Coast Guard Station Fort Macon. The station gate is located directly across from the park office and barracks, and visitors can catch a glimpse of one of the six Coast Guard Cutters that are moored there.

A conclusive history of Fort Macon and Fort Macon State Park can be found in Paul R. Branch Jr's book, "Fort Macon: A History." (ISBN 1-877853-45-3). Paul R. Branch is Fort Macons on-site historian and has been part of the Park Ranger staff for over 20 years.

Map of Fort Macon State Park