There’s no question that UNCW’s campus is absolutely stunning, and what better way to spend some time outside than to hammock? Hammocking has become recently popular for outdoor enthusiasts, and it’s pretty obvious why. Hammocks are comfy, easy to transport, and easy to use. They provide the perfect sort of relaxation after a long day of studying or an intense workout. Even better is sleeping in a hammock under the stars if you happen to be camping.
Lucky for us, UNCW has the perfect campus for hammocking since longleaf pines are in abundance. Here, we’ve outlined the top 7 spots to hammock around our gorgeous campus.
1. The Lakes
This is possibly one of my favorite places to sling up my hammock simply because it’s got the best views. While it is a heavily trafficked area during the school week, the fountains pretty effectively drown out all chatter from surrounding people. It’s perfect for passing the time between classes or could serve as an alternative to studying in Randall. Or maybe you’d prefer taking a nap after watching the reflection of the lake shimmer across the trees above.
2. Outside of Dobo & McNeill
This spot is great if you’re somebody who likes spending time around other people and listening to others’ conversations as they walk on by. If you have a few friends who also own hammocks, this could be a great area to spend the day hanging out since there are lots of trees almost perfectly spaced apart. During the right hours, this spot also tends to be sunny, which is a major bonus as the weather starts getting cooler.
3. Outside of Wag
I love this tree. The branches are low enough and strong enough to sling the hammock up as shown below. This spot is unique for that reason and it’s nice and shady during the peak hours of sunshine if you’re a person who prefers a cooler temperature while hammocking. (Plus, Wag is only a few steps away, so easy access to food, am I right?)
4. Near Friday Hall
I love this side of campus since it’s usually less populated than the rest and seems to have more of a forest-like atmosphere than other areas. This spot proves to be great: shady and sunny for all types of hammockers with natural surround sound in the form of crickets, frogs, bumblebees, and the ruffling of leaves caused by the wind.
5. Along Chancellor’s near Cameron Hall
If you like being around people when you hammock, pick this spot! During the school week you’ll constantly be hearing the footsteps of those scurrying off to classes. Once the weekend rolls around, though, this spot morphs into a place of silence. I particularly enjoy this spot because it does tend to be sunny and being wrapped in a warm little cocoon of a hammock is something I love.
6. Near Hoggard Lawn & the Seahawk Statue
The trees that line the picturesque area of Hoggard Lawn are huge and impressive. This is another spot that offers quietude and many different hammocking options–sling your hammock between two trees, sling it from one strong branch, or double stack two hammocks if you’re with a friend. The options are endless on the front side of campus since there really isn’t a whole lot over there besides trees.
7. Anywhere there are trees!
Seriously. Just grab your hammock & straps and set up camp wherever you can find some decently sized & spaced trees. The point is to just get out there and spend some time outside. Make sure to hammock responsibly and to only use live trees with thick trunks in well-established ground!
Hammock on, UNCW!
Photos courtesy of Sarah Miner and Thomas Booton. S/O to Thomas for helping out–you the best!