Moores Creek National Battlefield

Moores Creek National Battlefield

Moores Creek National Battlefield occupies an important place in North Carolina's landscape, preserved by the National Park Service so its history remains visible and accessible. In the early morning hours of February 27, 1776, Loyalist forces charged across a partially dismantled Moores Creek Bridge. Beyond the bridge, nearly 1,000 North Carolina Patriots waited quietly with cannons and muskets poised to fire.

This battle marked the last broadsword charge by Scottish Highlanders and the first significant victory for the Patriots in the American Revolution.

A battlefield unit of the National Park Service, Moores Creek National Battlefield is managed so the physical record — earthworks, monuments, viewpoints — remains legible for visitors willing to read it.

Key Highlights

• African American Heritage
• American Revolution
• Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite
• Enslavement
• Guided Tours
• Living History
• Park Film

Getting There

Reaching Moores Creek National Battlefield is straightforward once you know the route. Moores Creek National Battlefield is located 20 miles NW of Wilmington, North Carolina. · From Highway 17, follow US 421 to NC 210, then West on NC 210 · From Interstate 40, take exit 408 (NC 210) West at Rocky Point. · From Interstate 95 North, take exit 13-A for NC 74 East towards Wilmington. · From Interstate 95 South: take exit 81-B for I-40 East towards Wilmington. · From Fayetteville, North Carolina, take Interstate 95 South to Exit 13-A Questions please call us as 910-283-5591 x2234

By Car

Most visitors arrive by private vehicle or rental car. Road conditions vary with weather and construction, so check the park's alerts page the day before you travel. Pay attention to GPS directions in rural stretches—some apps route drivers onto unmaintained service roads rather than the signed park entrance.

Nearest Airports

Regional airports provide the most convenient access for long-distance travelers. For the most current airline service and driving distances, cross-reference flight options with the park's contact page. Budget extra drive time from any airport, especially if you arrive after dark or during winter weather.

Public Transit and Tours

Direct public transit is limited at most National Park Service sites, but guided day tours and shuttles sometimes operate from nearby cities during peak season. Rideshare options are often reliable in gateway towns but may drop off outside the park boundary rather than at specific trailheads or visitor centers.

For turn-by-turn directions and current road status, consult the park's official directions page: http://www.nps.gov/mocr/planyourvisit/directions.htm.

Best Time to Visit

Weather shapes every visit. Currie, North Carolina has mild Winters and moderate to hot Summers with varying humidity.

Spring (March – May)

Spring brings leafing trees, wildflowers across the fields, and comfortable walking temperatures ideal for covering long stretches of battlefield terrain on foot.

Summer (June – August)

Summer can be hot and humid, especially on open fields with limited shade. Plan longer walking tours for early morning, and save indoor museum and visitor center time for the afternoon heat.

Fall (September – November)

Fall is arguably the best season—crisp mornings, clear light for photography, fewer crowds than summer, and foliage that frames the historic landscape beautifully.

Winter (December – February)

Winter brings stark quiet and unobstructed views of earthworks and terrain features that are hidden by foliage in summer. Dress warmly, and expect shorter visitor center hours.

Activities and Adventures

Activities at Moores Creek National Battlefield reflect the character of the site. The options below are drawn from the park's current published list—confirm availability and any required reservations before planning around a specific activity.

• Arts and Culture — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Craft Demonstrations — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Cultural Demonstrations — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Fishing — a state fishing license is typically required; check current regulations for species and gear limits.
• Guided Tours — schedules rotate seasonally; check the visitor center board on arrival for the current lineup.
• Living History — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Historic Weapons Demonstration — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Paddling — water levels and wind shift quickly—plan around weather and consult rangers about current conditions.
• Canoeing — water levels and wind shift quickly—plan around weather and consult rangers about current conditions.
• Junior Ranger Program — schedules rotate seasonally; check the visitor center board on arrival for the current lineup.
• Park Film — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Museum Exhibits — the visitor center is the best first stop for context, maps, and current program information.
• Shopping — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Bookstore and Park Store — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.

Ranger-led programs are often the highest-value activity for first-time visitors, combining interpretation with access you might miss on your own. Check program schedules at the visitor center on arrival.

History and What to See

Moores Creek National Battlefield is primarily a site of historical and cultural significance. Beyond the headline landmarks, the park preserves smaller details—inscriptions, outbuildings, period plantings, wayside exhibits—that repay an unhurried visit.

Featured interpretive themes include African American Heritage, American Revolution, Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite, Enslavement, Farming and Agriculture, Industry.

Interpretation and Programs

Ranger talks, living-history demonstrations, and self-guided audio tours bring the story to life. If your schedule allows, time your visit to catch at least one ranger-led program; the added context transforms what you see on the grounds.

Preserved Structures and Landscape

The National Park Service preserves the physical setting as faithfully as possible. Walking the grounds gives you a sense of scale—distances, sightlines, elevation—that is hard to appreciate from photos alone.

Research and Archives

Many historic sites maintain libraries, archives, or partnered research centers. If you have a specific interest, contact the park in advance; staff can often point you toward documents, oral histories, or special collections.

Lodging and Camping

Lodging strategy depends on how long you plan to stay at Moores Creek National Battlefield and what you want to do when you are not at the park.

On-Site Stays

Overnight accommodations inside the park's boundary are limited or not offered here. Most visitors stay in nearby towns and commute in each day.

Gateway Towns and Nearby Lodging

Communities close to the park offer a mix of chain hotels, independent inns, vacation rentals, and—depending on location—bed-and-breakfasts. Several North Carolina towns serve as convenient bases, with restaurants, fuel, and grocery resupply. Book well ahead for summer weekends and major holidays.

Operating Hours and Seasons

Visitor Center: The Visitor Center is open Tuesday - Saturday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. This includes access to exhibits, the park's 10-minute film, "In the Most Furious Manner", the gift shop and America the Beautiful passes. The visitor center is closed on all Federal Holidays except Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veteran's Day. The Visitor Center Phone Number is 910-283-5591 ex.2234

Essential Information

Fees and Passes

No standard entrance fee is charged. Some special programs or partner-run facilities within the park may carry their own fees, so confirm before booking anything ticketed.

Contact

• Phone: 9102835591
• Email: mocr_information@nps.gov
• Official site: https://www.nps.gov/mocr/index.htm

Safety

Carry water, sun protection, and layered clothing appropriate for the season. Cell coverage can be spotty in parts of the park—download offline maps before you leave your lodging. In an emergency, dial 911 or contact the nearest ranger station.

Services and Accessibility

Main visitor centers typically offer accessible restrooms, interpretive exhibits, bookstore sales, and ranger assistance. Accessibility varies by building and trail; contact the park ahead of time to discuss specific needs. Pets are often allowed on leash in designated areas only—check current rules before bringing animals.

Regulations to Know

Drones are prohibited in nearly all National Park Service units without a special permit. Metal detecting, collection of natural or cultural objects, and off-trail travel in sensitive areas are also commonly restricted. Read the signs at each trailhead and ask a ranger if you are unsure.

A battlefield visit like Moores Creek National Battlefield is as much about standing still as it is about walking. Both matter.