Trail Overview

The sand at Fort Fisher is soft, deep, and quite rutted, requiring four-wheel drive. Airing tires down to 18 to 20 psi is recommended, especially when sand conditions are hot and dry. Annual or day passes are available at the park entrance from the Park Rangers. This trail has fantastic ocean views and observation spots of the many estuaries formed on the Cape Fear River on the Intracoastal side of the island.

Photos of Fort Fisher State Recreation Area 4x4 Beach

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Difficulty

The deep ruts and potential for very soft sand on hot, dry days impact this trail's rating. The beach regularly mires vehicles with drivers inexperienced in sand/beach driving. Recovery boards and other standard recovery equipment are recommended when embarking on the beach.

Technical Rating

Danny Lee

Nov 20, 2025

Open

Endless room to fish. Overnight stay as long as you’re in the act of fishing during off season.

Kyle Peeks

Jun 23, 2025

Open

Jordan Hjelmquist

Jun 21, 2025

Open

Air down to 20psi with 4wd and you’re fine.

Bo L

Apr 15, 2025

Open

Bryan Ledford

May 17, 2024

Open

Ramp was really rough but beach lanes are good.

Scooby Carolan

Jul 26, 2023

Open

Ron D

Jun 26, 2023

Open