Historic Fort Fisher

Across U.S. Highway 421 from the recreation area is Fort Fisher State Historic Site where less than 10 percent of the original earthen fortifications remain - about 180 yards along the Cape Fear River, and about 70 yards along the ocean. In the Visitor Center, an audiovisual program tells the story of Fort Fisher and guided tours of the outdoor exhibits are conducted along a quarter-mile trail.

During the Civil War, Fort Fisher stood guard over the mouth of the Cape Fear River, keeping the blockading Union ships at a distance, spread out beyond the dangerous shoals, and allowing the famous blockade runners to make their nighttime dashes through the blockades and up river to Wilmington with supplies for the Confederate Army.

The fort withstood several attacks and bombardments from the Union that had amassed more than 40 ships to blockade the river and attack the fort. Finally, in 1865, Union land and sea forces combined to overwhelm the fort and subsequently take the city of Wilmington, cutting off the only supply line to General Lee’s Confederate Army. Shortly thereafter, the Confederacy fell.

Just south of the fort at the southern tip of the island, you’ll find the dock for the Southport/Fort Fisher Ferry operated by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The trip across the mouth of the Cape Fear River to historic Southport takes nearly half an hour and costs only $5 per car.