Jacksonville, North Carolina

2 months ago

2 minutes

A lovely coastal town in North Carolina! Here are some interesting facts and attractions about Jacksonville, North Carolina:

Location: Jacksonville is located in Onslow County, North Carolina, about 30 miles west of Wilmington and 120 miles north of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

History: The area was originally inhabited by the Waccamaw Native American tribe. The town was founded in 1748 and was named after “Old Hickory” Andrew Jackson, the 7th President of the United States.

Attractions:

Beaches: Jacksonville is known for its beautiful beaches, including Jacksonville Beach, Wrightsville Beach, and Topsail Beach. These beaches offer swimming, surfing, fishing, and sunbathing.
Camp Lejeune: This United States Marine Corps base is located in Jacksonville and is one of the largest marine bases in the world. The base is home to over 45,000 military personnel and their families.
Swansboro Historic District: This charming historic district features many restored buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, including homes, shops, and restaurants.
Croatan National Forest: This 150,000-acre forest offers hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting opportunities.
Camp Davis: This historic site was once a military training base during World War II and is now a popular spot for picnicking and outdoor recreation.

Events:

Seafood Festival: Held annually in May, this festival celebrates the region’s seafood heritage with food vendors, live music, and children’s activities.
Jacksonville Jazz Festival: This annual festival in October features live jazz music performances by local and national artists.
4th of July Celebration: The town hosts a large-scale Independence Day celebration with fireworks, live music, and food vendors.

Education:

University of North Carolina at Wilmington: Located about 30 miles east of Jacksonville, this university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Carteret Community College: A public community college with a campus in Jacksonville, offering associate’s degrees and certifications.

Demographics:

Population: Approximately 72,000 people call Jacksonville home.
Economy: The city’s economy is driven by defense industries (Camp Lejeune), healthcare, education, and tourism.

Overall, Jacksonville is a charming coastal town with a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a strong sense of community.