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Goose Creek State Park offers a swimming area at the back of the park for families to visit completely cost-free and is great for the summertime.

Swim Beach, at the back of the park, offers a chance to swim in the brackish waters of the Pamlico River, fishing, picnic tables, hiking trails, and a scenic view.

The park averages around 100 visitors in the area with people scattered throughout the day and is busiest on Saturdays and Sunday afternoons.

Swim beach is connected to the park through hiking trails for those who wish to hike there, or you can drive to the back of the park following the signs that say “swimming.”

Fishing is popular in this area with most people looking for red drum or trout, and occasionally net fishing for mullet. For those who wish to stay out of the water, there is also a nice sandy area to relax, get a tan, or picnic tables to sit and enjoy a meal.

“Swim beach is what brings people in during the summer, and even during the winter, there is always someone out there,” park ranger Cameron Teague said. “It is one of, if not the only free public beach access in W