Bald Head Woods Reserve

Natural Features

The 191-acre Bald Head Woods component is part of the Smith Island Complex, located just east of the Cape Fear River. This component is bounded on the south and east by the Atlantic Ocean, and on the north by the Zeke’s Island site. This site is also a Dedicated Nature Preserve, authorized by G.S. 143B-135.250.

The “highlands” of this barrier island complex consist of Bald Head, Middle, and Bluff Islands, which are three forested dune ridges separated by salt marshes. The Bald Head Woods component of the North Carolina Coastal Reserve is located in the central portion of Bald Head Island.

One of the significant features of Bald Head Woods is the extremely old, large trees in this maritime forest. Live oak and laurel oak are the major species, comprising a canopy that shelters the plants from salt spray. The thick undergrowth consists of wild olive, American holly, yaupon, and catbrier. The lack of light favors shade-tolerant plants like ebony spleenwort. Cabbage palmetto appears throughout the forest. Gray squirrels, raccoons, and opossums inhabit the forest, as do Carolina wrens, cardinals, and painted buntings. Catbirds, towhees, blue jays, and 22 species of warblers migrate through in the fall.

Visiting the Site

Stay safe when visiting! Learn more about safety tips. 

Bald Head Island may be accessed by a passenger-only ferry that departs from Deep Point Marina in Southport. Tickets can be purchased online or day of at the ticket window. Cars are not allowed on the island, but bicycles and golf carts may be rented to access Bald Head Woods. A network of trails can be accessed from multiple golf cart parking areas and trail heads along Federal Road.

The trail system at Bald Head Woods is primitive and provides an immersive experience into a maritime forest. Depending on the time of year and current conditions, you may encounter biting insects (ticks, mosquitos, etc.), poisonous plants (ie. Poison ivy), and occasional trail hazards (downed limbs, exposed roots, etc.). Proper protective clothing and closed toe shoes are encouraged.

Be a responsible visitor: check out the reserve rules and policies before your visit. 

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