Fort Macon State Park

Fort Macon State Park is a jack of all trades, with watersports, hiking, and an abundance of history providing enjoyment to guests of all shapes and sizes. For history lovers, Fort Macon State Park is a great place to explore with several different Civil War-era buildings in states of preservation. Several demonstrations occur throughout the year, including musket and cannon lessons as well as recreations of famous battles from that era. 

Fort Macon State Park offers some marvelous views via their 1.5 miles of beachside trails. Two scenic overlooks exist on this path, both of which contain literature about the possible species you can see splashing about in the ocean. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for dolphins as well, as they are often spotted not too far from the shore. Canines are allowed on these paths as long as they stay on a leash no more than six feet in length. 

A doggie waste station is posted roughly halfway through this trail, so make sure to clean up after your canine if they leave anything behind. If you're looking to catch some fish, there are an abundance of species populating these coastal waters. During the spring you'll find flounder and bluefish as the waters begin to warm. Throughout the summer, the fish population increases dramatically and tends to be the most popular part of the season. 

Fall and summer fishing see a slow dropoff as many of these fish move to warmer waters. This means if you are someone who prefers an empty beach, the offseason is the time for you. Canines are welcome on the beaches throughout the year provided they are on a leash throughout their stay, and owners make sure to clean up any refuse left behind. 

For swimmers, there are a few unique amenities that make Fort Macon State Park an attractive option. Guests can enjoy a beachside bathhouse and concession stand during the summer months. Lifeguards are posted to marked "protection" areas during swimming season as well, so you can feel safe getting out into the surf and having some fun provided you stay within these regions. Dogs are unfortunately prohibited from all swimming areas.